A sine wave converter may be the best choice for you if your passion is camping and extensive road travel. Sine wave inverters convert power from a batteries into the same kind of power that you get from your wall outlet at home or work.
Inverters that convert sine waves from DC to AC transform the direct current (DC), which is generated by a battery. AC power can then power appliances, lamps, light strips, and other devices that cannot be powered directly by battery power.
While the idea of a sinewave converter is straightforward, things can get complicated when you begin to look at all the sinewave inverters available. There are two main types: modified sine waves inverters or pure sine wave. Knowing the difference between them will help you choose the best inverter.
What you need to know about a 12/24/48v pure sine wave inverter
These inverters produce pure sine waves, which are often the most expensive. Because they produce AC power close to the actual sine wave or the power supplied by wall outlets, they are typically the most expensive of all inverters. A pure sine wave is an oscillation that occurs in a steady, continuous manner.
Pure sine wave inverters have the highest functionality and can be used to power any equipment that works on a pure signal wave. Any device that is powered by a pure sinewave inverter will function to its full extent. It is important to note that not all devices can be powered by other types sine wave inverters. They may malfunction, become damaged, or stop working altogether.
Devices that use pure sine wave inverters include:
Appliances equipped with AC motors such as fridges, compressors and microwaves
Other devices such as bread makers, battery chargers, and light dimmers are also available.
Satellite systems for audio and video equipment
Certain medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators and CPAP devices, for sleep apnea, are not allowed.
Pure sine wave converters cover all bases. They ensure that everything you power with them will run at its full potential.
When Modified Sinewave Inverters Are Acceptable
Modified sine waves inverters tend to be the cheapest sine wave converters, because they produce a type of sine wave that is easiest to create. They produce a waveform that looks more like a square than the round arc created by pure sine inverters.
A modified sine wave converter may work with most equipment, but there are some exceptions. A modified sine wave converter can be used to reduce the power required or minimize damage. However, some devices won’t work as well. Specific information, particularly regarding laptops, can be found in the manufacturer’s manual.
Modified sine wave inverters are not recommended for use on these devices:
Motors are also used in devices and appliances that have motors such as fans, refrigerators and microwaves. Modified sine inverters have a lower efficiency, so motors will need more power to function properly. This can cause overheating or damage.
Digital clocks and electric timers won’t work correctly in any appliance. They often get their power from the peak sine wave. It can cause malfunction if the flattened wave pattern isn’t providing the peak they need.
This problem can also arise with equipment that uses electric temperature controls or variable speeds. Variable speed drills, for example, can only be run at high or low speeds using a modified sine converter, and not all speeds.
Certain fluorescent lighting fixtures won’t operate as brightly. Others may make irritating buzzing or humming sounds.
Modified sine wave converters can be a cost-effective solution for many devices, unless your equipment falls within the exceptions. They’re the most widely-used and well-known inverters.
Selecting the right equipment to match your application
Pure sine inverter charging is recommended if the inverter will be connected to public electricity, a generator, or any other power source. The inverter chargers come with a built-in charger which will automatically store power in a battery bank when it is connected to outside power. They also include a transfer switch that seamlessly switches between external power and the inverter’s stored energy. These make them a great fit for mobile applications such as driving a car, boat, or RV.
It is important to consider the intended use of the inverter before you choose it. You should consider the equipment that will be used with it, as well as any manufacturer instructions. With confidence, you can now choose the right inverter to suit your needs.