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Power Generators
| Appliance in Watts |
Approximate power consumption |
| Radio |
200 |
| Toaster |
1250 |
| Hair Dryer (1800 watt) |
2000 |
| Iron (steam) |
1800 |
| Lights (incandescent 5 x 60 watt) |
300 |
| Fridge |
400 |
| Freezer |
400 |
| TV |
350 |
| Microwave (650 watt) |
950 |
| Microwave (850 watt) |
1500 |
Air conditioner 1 hp
Heat/Cool output 2.5kW |
2200 |
Air conditioner 1.25 hp
Heat/Cool output 3.0kW |
2800 |
Air conditioner 1.5 hp
Heat/Cool output 3.5kW |
3000 |
Air conditioner 2 hp
Heat/Cool output 4.5kW |
4800 |
Some useful formulas
Applicable for single phase only (i.e. 240 volts)
| To calculate kW |
V x | x pf
1000 |
| To calculate kVA |
V x |
1000 |
To calculate Amps
When kW known |
kW x 1000
V x pf |
To calculate Amps
WhenkVA known |
kVA x 1000
V |
Formula legend
| V |
= voltage |
| | |
= current in amps |
| kW |
= power in kilowatts |
| kVA |
= kilovolt amps |
| pf |
= power factor |
Differences between Open Frame and Sine Wave (Inverter) Portable Generators
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| Conventional Skid Frame Style |
Sine Wave |
| Lower cost per kW |
More expensive due to electronics |
| Rugged construction for job sites |
Sturdy but requires moderate cares |
| Heavier |
40% lighter due to smaller engine without flywheel |
| Loud |
10 -15 decibels quieter due to sound attenuating panels and lower engine noise |
| Larger per kW |
Compact design |
| Constant 3600 rpm engine speed |
Variable engine speed governed by load requirements
- quieter through normal load ranges and better fuel
economy |
| Conventional alternator produced Electricity with distortion |
Inverter clean stable output with pure sine wave – can
run any electronic equipment |
| 3-5% fluctuation in voltage and frequency |
Typically less than 2% |
| Engine cannot perform above maximum load rating |
Operates at 120% of rated output for 20 seconds to
allow motors and air conditioners to start |
| Thermal breaker overload protection |
Microprocessor control instantly senses high overload
condition and shuts down unit |
| Centrifugal governor |
Digital control provides superior engine management |
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