Types of Power Inverters Electrical

Power inverters produce one of three different types of wave output:

Square Wave
Modified Square Wave (Modified Sine Wave)
Pure Sine Wave (True Sine Wave)

The three different wave signals represent three different qualities of power output and consequently, three different price categories. Square wave inverters result in uneven power delivery that is not efficient for running most devices. Square wave inverters were the first types of inverters made and are obsolete.

Modified square wave (modified sine wave) inverters deliver power that is consistent and efficient enough to run most devices fine. This type of inverter is probably the most popular.

Pure sine wave inverters are the most expensive, but they also deliver the most consistent wave output. Some sensitive equipment requires a sine wave, like certain medical equipment and variable speed or rechargeable tools. If you arent sure if the device you want to use requires a pure sine wave or not, call the manufacturer to ask. Or if you dont mind the price difference any device will run on a pure sine wave, whether it requires it or not. The only drawback would be in spending more than you need to for your power inverter.

Always use a power inverter that is rated high enough for the devices you are running and avoid adapters that would allow more outlets than the unit is designed to accommodate.

Working with car batteries can be dangerous and can result in serious injury, and improper use of a power inverter can lead to electrocution, so for your own safety be sure to read and follow any and all safety precautions that are listed in your owners manual, which will come with your power inverter.