| Different types of inverter produce different AC waveforms and are
suitable for different situations.
Square Wave Inverters
We no longer sell square wave
inverters. The price of better quality inverters is low enough to make the use of these
unattractive.
Modified
Sine Wave Inverters
Modified sine
wave (or
modified square wave) inverters are a good choice for a 'whole home' inverter since their
high surge capacity lets them start motors whilst their high efficiency lets them run
small appliances economically.
Most loads will run without trouble
from a modified sine wave. It is suitable for a variety of applications such as induction
motors (ie. refrigerators, drill presses); resistive loads (ie. heaters, toasters);
universal motors (ie. hand tools, vacuum cleaners) as well as microwaves and computers.
However, some appliances will not operate or will run noticeably less well if not on a
pure sine wave.
Problem loads: eg. many laser
printers, copiers, some computers, light dimmers and some variable speed tools may not
operate; some TV's and some audio equipment will pick up interference or background buzz;
some digital clocks may not may not keep time; microwave ovens will have longer cooking
times; and some small battery chargers may fail. Central heating ignition systems can be
problematic.
Sine
Wave Inverters
A 'mains' quality pure
sine wave
output is necessary for some applications such as running electronics or audio equipment.
True sine wave inverters can
run all types of load and are now available which are powerful, efficient and affordable!
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