If you are looking to buy an inverter, then one of the first things you will be asked to decide is whether you want a sine wave inverter or a square wave inverter. This is because both of these inverters come under different price ranges and are suitable for different usage requirements.
Sine waves are generally recommended for operating heavy and delicate machinery like AC, TVs, refrigerators etc that require a stable power inflow. On the other hand, a square wave inverter is suitable for simple electronic usage like fan, lights and some power sockets.
Now, let us understand each of these inverter types in detail. Read along to find out the pros and cons of each one and a comprehensive comparison between the two that will help you make the final decision.
Sine Wave Inverter:
The sine wave is the latest method of converting DC to AC current. This is an advanced and safe way of converting.
This kind of conversion can handle heavy devices like TV, ACs, washing machines etc. A sine wave inverter is safer for the electrical devices in your home as it produces the exact amount of current needed for these devices to function. This is also similar and sometimes even better than the regular current supply that you get at home.
How Does a Sine Wave Inverter Work?
The sine wave releases AC current by fluctuating between positive and negative values. However, this is done in a steady and gradual manner to prevent damage to electronic devices.
Instead of fluctuating between positive and negative, it moves from positive to neutral to negative and then back to neutral. This way the power is stabilised so that it will not damage any electrical devices.
PROS:
- This is a stable, safe and a reliable inverter.
- You can use almost all kinds of electronics using this inverter.
- They do not create a lot of noise while working.
CONS:
- Expensive than a square wave inverter.
Square wave inverter
Square wave inverters are named after the shape of the waveform that they release, which is a square.
This is the traditional method of converting DC to AC current. This type of conversion is considered outdated and is even banned in some European countries.
This is because a square wave conversion is not stable and regulated, which poses a risk to the electrical devices that operate on this. It cannot handle many high power-consuming electrical devices such as refrigerators, ACs etc. It also cannot handle delicate and crucial devices like medical equipment etc because of its unstable nature.
How Does a Square Wave Inverter Work?
Similar to sine wave inverters, square wave inverters also convert DC current to AC current by shifting between positive and negative values. But, here the current shifts suddenly from positive to negative values without pausing at the neutral or zero levels.
This sudden shift from positive and negative value creates a risk of damage to the electronics that it is connected with. The power here is not stabilised and can either overload or underload the appliances which are not safe for all electronics.
Pros:
- They are affordable and easily available in India
Cons:
- Not as safe as sine wave inverter
- Is not compatible with many sensitive electronics
- Creates a lot of noise while working
Difference Between a Sine Wave and Square Wave Inverter:
| BASIS | SINE WAVE INVERTER | SQUARE WAVE INVERTER |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Sine wave is safer due to its stable power output | Comparatively not safe due to its unstable power output |
| Supported appliances | Large number of appliances can be supported by the sine wave inverter | Limited number of appliances can be supported by square wave inverter |
| Price | This is comparatively higher priced than square wave inverter | Cheaper than sine wave inverter |
| Noise level | Emits low to zero noise while in operation | Produces a lot of noise while working |
| Suitability | Suitable for places that are frequently dependant on inverters to operate many electrical devices | Suitable for low usage where the inverter is used only for smaller devices like ceiling fans,lights etc |
The Final Call
Unless you are in a budget constraint and plan on using your inverter only for lighter electrical devices like fans and lights then you can choose a Square wave inverter.
However, if budget is not an issue for you and you are planning on running heavier electronics like a TV or refrigerator or an AC with your inverter then a Sine wave inverter is definitely the right choice for you.
