RENOGY'S 1,000-WATT DC/AC SOLUTION

THE RIGHT INVERTER TO POWER KEY ELECTRIC DEVICES

- JIM JEFFRIES

Keeping the lights on and appliances functioning during power outages has long been the job of gasoline-powered portable generators. However, so-lar-powered generators are becoming more efficient and popular and are proving to be just as capable in most instances while offering several advantages.

A few of these are:

• No hazardous fuel to store or spill

• Almost zero maintenance

• Silent power-generation

• Always ready to supply electricity when needed

• Expandable as needed or as the budget allows

INVERTERS

A solar-powered generator uses solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy, which is then regulated by a charge controller and stored in batteries for later use. This low-voltage, direct-current (DC) energy must be converted into alternating current (AC) at a much higher voltage to power items designed to use utility power. This is accomplished with a DC-to-AC battery power inverter.

Not all inverters are suitable for running home appliances or sensitive electronics. Inverters typically sold at auto parts or big-box discount stores are what are known as “modified” sine wave inverters, which produce a stair step AC waveform that roughly mimics what comes from your home’s electrical outlets. This might be good enough for charging a cellphone or laptop computer, but it might not satisfy the power requirements of other devices commonly used in the home.