Generator VS Inverter: What’s The Difference

Generators and inverters are reliable back-up power solutions, which supply adequate electrical supply in times of black outs in anything from residences to industries. While the demand for uninterrupted power supply has gone up around the world, the United Kingdom is no different. There has also been a surge in the number of companies that offer generator installation services in the UK and inverter installation service as well.

While industries and residences start their quest for generator or inverter installation in the UK, it is important to know the difference between the two and decide which is best suited for their needs. Besides the difference in the underlying technology of generators and inverters, Lance Power, a leading generator installation service provider in the UK, seeks to highlight other distinctive points to make purchase easier and worthwhile.

A generator converts mechanical energy that is obtained from an external source such as gas or fuel into electrical energy. An inverter converts DC power into AC power while regulating the voltage, current flow and frequency of the signal.

Once the basic mechanics of both generator and inverter has been identified, let’s peek into the other distinctive points:

Distinctive category	Generator	Inverter
Type	Classified on the basis of power source such as fuel, propane, dual fuel & solar	Classified as Sine Wave, Modified Sine Wave & Square Wave
Noise	Generators comprise of an internal combustion engine and rotary motors that generate noise	Inverters produce a beeping sound when the power goes out and comes back
Power source	Generators draw power from numerous external sources such as diesel, gasoline etc.	Inverters draw power from batteries that charge from electricity.
Weight	Generators are encased in heavy metal frames with wheels that increase its weight. The bigger the generator, the more its weight.	Inverters are lightweight but the battery pack is heavy.
Cost	Generator installation or purchase cost in the UK is fairly priced according to their applications	Inverters are generally costlier compared to a generator of the same rating
Energy generation	Generators produce the electricity on spot	Inverters store energy in their batteries
Maintenance	Generators require regular maintenance such as oil and lubricant changes	Inverters are easy to maintain and require attention over the batteries water levels
Application	Telecommunications Installations Caravans and campsites Maritime vessels Mining Hospitals Schools Data Centres	Battery-powered mobile Marine vehicles UPS Battery Banks

Installing a generator or inverter in the UK depends largely on the power needs. Small, moderately-capable inverters are ideal for powering low-voltage electronics and home appliances. Inverters cut the power to prevent any damage even when there is a brief spike in grid voltage.

High capacity back-up electricity source requires generator installation in the UK because it can handle heavy loads. Inverters lose power when the connected batteries are depleted, but generators can continue to run continuously for longer periods of time as long as their fuel supply is maintained.

Hence, the cost for generator installation in the UK becomes practical for powering heavy appliances and equipment compared to inverters.

Lance Power offers customised generator supply and installation packages in the UK. Browse our different offerings to find the best fit for diverse needs.