Pure Sine Wave v Modified Sine Wave Inverters

Inverters are now considered essential in countries like Nigeria where power from the grid is unreliable. With an inverter, you can power your appliances whenever power from the grid is unavailable or too expensive. When buying an inverter one of the major decisions you will have to make is whether to buy a Pure sine wave inverter or a Modified sine wave inverter.  

 In this article, we’re going to look at three crucial differences that you ABSOLUTELY MUST KNOW in order to make the right decision. First, we’re going to be talking about the output waveform produced by Pure sine wave v Modified sine wave inverters. 

Next, we'll talk about the types of appliances you can power with each type of inverter. Lastly, we're going to discuss the difference in inverter prices, which varies widely according to the type of inverter you are buying. After reading this article, you'll be able to make an informed choice about the best type of inverter for you.

The difference in the output waveform

Pure sine wave inverters are widely known for delivering a clean waveform similar to the grid or utility-supplied electricity. With that being said, producing a pure sine wave is harder when compared to a modified sine wave. 

The efficiency of a modified sine wave inverter is usually not as good, as a Pure sine wave inverter since you are dealing with power loss. Appliances that rely on AC motors will not run as efficiently on modified sine wave inverters. Some might not even work at all. Therefore, if you intend to run anything more than basic appliances. Investing in a pure sine wave inverter is always a smart choice.

The appliances you can power with each type of inverter

As we mentioned above, any appliance that has AC motors will not run that well with a modified sine wave inverter. So, for medical devices, pumps, microwaves, or refrigerators, a pure sine wave inverter is more suitable. 

For best performance when using game consoles like the PlayStation 4 we recommend using a pure sine wave UPS inverter. The Playstation console can run on both modified wave inverters. However, you should keep in mind that it will likely go off whenever there is no power from the grid. Interrupting you in the middle of playing games, which can be very frustrating and embarrassing especially if you are playing with friends. Also your console's power unit will have to work much harder to filter out the improper AC voltage generated by a modified sine wave, reducing its life substantially. 

Fluorescent lights are brighter with the pure sine wave inverter and any appliances with digital clocks or electronic timers require pure sine wave power. Basic home appliances like TV, LED bulbs, fans, and most low-wattage home appliances outside of those above will work well with modified sine wave inverters. 

Differences in price

When purchasing an inverter, you shouldn't focus solely on the price. You should also consider the functional difference of pure sine wave v modified sine wave inverters. That being said, in comparison with Pure sine wave inverters, a modified sine wave inverter is less expensive. But the efficiency of such products is not as high when compared to others. You will find affordable, inexpensive modified sine wave inverters in most shops.

With a pure sine wave inverter, things are different. A higher inverter price is due to the fact that this is a more efficient product, it can be used with AC motors too, and appliances run cooler, quieter, and faster. In addition, the waveform of the output voltage is very clean, and appliances can deliver the full output when using the inverter. Moreover, you do not have to worry about any risk of damage when using the pure sine wave inverter.

Conclusion

While there are significant differences in pure sine wave v modified sine wave inverters. The pure sine wave inverter and the modified sine wave inverter can both be great options, depending on your needs. It’s very important to assess your budget and requirements, then you can make the right pick. Ideally, you want to go with a pure sine wave inverter, but this product is more expensive. If you’re not using sensitive equipment or items with an AC motor then the modified inverter will do just fine.