Why square wave inverters are not recommended for home appliances?
Inverters are electronic devices that convert direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). Among the various types of inverters, square wave inverters are the simplest and most cost-effective one.
A square wave is a non-sinusoidal waveform that alternates between two levels, typically high and low, with the same interval of time. It is called a ‘square’ wave due to its distinctive shape. Square wave inverters generate this type of waveform to convert DC into AC.
However, they are generally not recommended for home appliances.
Square wave inverter disadvantages
The main problem with square wave inverters lies in their output waveform. Most home appliances are designed to operate on pure sine wave AC, which is the type of AC supplied by the grid. A square wave is a poor approximation of a sine wave, and using a square wave inverter can lead to several issues:
- Reduced efficiency: Appliances running on square wave power tend to operate less efficiently. This is because the sharp transitions in the square wave can cause more energy to be lost as heat.
- Increased heat: The abrupt voltage changes in a square wave can cause increased heating in appliances, potentially shortening their lifespan.
- Noise: Square wave inverters can cause a noticeable hum or buzz in audio devices and certain appliances due to the harmonic distortion in the waveform.
- Damage to sensitive electronics: Delicate electronic devices, such as computers or televisions, can be damaged by the high harmonic content of the square wave, as their power circuits are specifically designed for a sine wave.
While square wave inverters are simple and inexpensive, they are not suitable for most home appliances. But they can be used for applications with low sensitivity, such as lighting and heating. Therefore, it’s generally recommended to use inverters that produce a pure sine wave or at least a modified sine wave, which is a better approximation of a pure sine wave. Remember, the right choice of inverter can significantly impact the performance and lifespan of your appliances.