I picked up a 3000W modified sine wave inverter from Canadian Tire for $175. I wanted something to run off my car battery (while running) in order to provide power for emergencies. I know that 3000W is way too much for that purpose, but I won't put more than 800-1000W on it, at most. While there, I noticed a Champion 1000W inverter generator (pure sine wave) on clearance for $275. I was looking to get a 2-3000W Honda or Yamaha inverter generator when funds permit, but now I'm tempted by the 1kW Champion.
So, assuming I can only afford one or the other, should I get a larger capacity inverter (I was thinking I'd be able to use it with a battery bank later on), or a portable 1000W inverter generator? Canadian Tire doesn't carry the Champion inverter generators any more, so this would be my last crack at it, while the inverter will go on sale again. For reference, a 1000W Yamaha or Honda inverter generator runs about $7-800.
Thoughts?
Inverter to use with a battery bank with solar recharge... ongoing power for your needs. Generator that runs on fuel, be it gas, diesel, propane... only runs as long as the fuel holds out.
generator also requires lubricating oil, air filters, parts and is noisy. Hmmmm... Choice??
JAB
Currently, I don't have a battery bank or any means of generating electricity by wind or solar. I would be using the inverter to convert my 12V car system to 110V when my car is running, so either way it would run on gas and only as long as I have some.
I think the inverter would be the better choice. Much more room to improve later on if you chose to get a small solar array etc. Generators have their uses as well, but for longevity a battery array, solar charging, and an inverter are more practical.
Ideally I would go with both 🙂
See you all after.
Understood. The inverter will work on either system. You could put the generator money into some solar equipment and be further ahead.... just my 2 cents.
JAB
For all these kinds of questions answered by an expert I think the Steve Harris series of podcasts were the best I've ever heard with actual brands recommended for all things from solar panels to batteries to inverters, generators, chargers etc.
http://www.solar1234.com/
Spend a few hours, you'll buy the right thing the first time.
Also take into consideration that a 3000W generator is peak power. Maximum power mean maximum fuel consumption.
There will be peak performance, where you will maximize your power output to fuel consumption ratio, which is usually in the ballpark of half your peak wattage.
So in your case, a 3000W peak wattage, would work out to 1500W-2000W peak performance, so you are much closer to your power goals than you might think.
I am with other that suggest going with an inverter, investing in a battery bank, and a solar option, but only because you have a generator already.
In most emergencies where you would expect a power outage, like the snowstorm battering the east coast right now, a generator is handy because it is a simple pull, plug, and play. In these situations, you know power is going to be restored eventually, services will return to normal, and you can replenish your fuel supplies.
A battery bank, inverter, and solar power will provide tons of power for LED lighting, small electronics, etc, and if you are running the generator, you can recharge the bank if the solar panel(s) are not keeping up.
As other have posted, having extra oil, filters, carb kits, and lots of extra fuel is critical.
You can never have too much redundancy.
My 2 cents is to go for the inverter, unless you have specific need for a generator - mine was invaluable when building my off-grid place. Power tools rock! As for spare parts, in almost 3 years the only thing that has broken on mine was the pull cord!