Can I add an inverter to a generator?

Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more. Yes, you can add an inverter to a generator if you find an inverter with enough capacity and follow the safety guidelines. However, in practice, it will be hard to find a compatible inverter that can make the most of all the power that portable generators offer.

What is a generator inverter?

An inverter is a device that converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC); This allows you to use your generator for more than a few hours. When you do so, you’ll be able to attain longer run time and more power. Generators are great for emergencies, but they need to produce stable power.

Should a generator and an inverter run together?

If you have both an inverter and a generator, your system should run simultaneously. Here are some reasons why: Running both together helps protect your home from power surges and fluctuations in voltage caused by brownouts or blackouts; generators create more consistent power than inverters do.

Should you buy an inverter generator?

However, in practice, it will be hard to find a compatible inverter that can make the most of all the power that portable generators offer. In turn, you generally want to invest in an inverter generator if you plan to power any sensitive electronics.

Do inverters need a DC outlet?

However, in practice, many of the inverters on the market need DC power input. And even if your generator has an outlet with this type of power, you may need an adapter to connect it to the inverter. After all this work, you will likely still find the capacity of the small DC outlet of your generator lacking.

Can You charge a generator with an inverter?

Charging with a generator means they have the same voltage requirements (generators usually run at one or three phases). This is close enough that they won’t damage each other when connected (generators typically run at 120 volts, whereas most inverters require 240 volts).