At home or in any business setting, a power interruption can disrupt work, damage electronic equipment and create problems. To avoid these challenges, people depend on alternate backup solutions. Two of the most frequently used backup systems are Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) and Inverters. Many people assume that both systems serve the same purpose, but they operate differently and have distinct functions.
Before you buy a power backup system, it is important to know the differences between UPS and Inverter, as well as which type of system meets your needs. This article will help you understand the differences between an UPS and an inverter so you can make a more informed decision.
Understanding What a UPS Is
An Uninformed Power Supply is designed to provide immediate emergency power to devices in the event of an electrical power failure. This device provides a seamless transitional method to backup generator power or another alternative source of electricity when one becomes active. In many situations, it will also serve as a primary delivery method for short-term supply of backup electricity.
A Uninformed Power Supply system will not allow even the smallest delay in power during a transition from loss of electric power to the use of a generator. This feature provides the best solution for many types of electronic equipment and computer software, since machines that are unable to restart will not tolerate any interruptions.
Uninformed Power Supply systems are found in a variety of applications:
- Information Technology systems and servers;
- Banking equipment;
- Telecom equipment and network switchers;
- Hospital and diagnostic equipment;
- Digital devices and online workstations;
Also unique to the Uninformed Power Supply system will be its ability to help protect connected devices from voltage fluctuation, electrical spikes, brownouts, or noise by providing stabilised voltage to connected devices. Most people would not think of inverters as being capable of doing so but they can provide some level of voltage regulation; however, the degree of protection provided to the connected devices will not be equal to the protection provided by the Uninformed Power Supply system.
Understanding What an Inverter Is
On the contrary, an inverter has a much longer battery backup duration and can offer anywhere from a few hours, up to an entire day of backup power depending on how much battery capacity is installed into the inverter. An inverter will convert DC (from available battery/s) into AC so that any devices connected to the inverter will be powered normally during a blackout.
In the case of power loss, the inverter must react and begin the process of taking over, which can sometimes take a fraction of a second or longer depending on the inverter’s capabilities. This delay may not be noticeable to lights and fans but could potentially cause damage to many sensitive electronic devices.
Inverters are typically used for:
- Powering home office equipment
- Powering smaller office equipment
- Powering lights and fans, as well as other home appliances
- Powering televisions, speakers, and other entertainment systems
Inverters are typically more applicable in situations where the duration of backup power is critical and provides a benefit over instantaneous power switchover.
How They Work: A Simple Breakdown
UPS Functionality:
Always observed incoming electric power for current regulation, using constant power conditioning on all incoming power.
Always switches to battery back-up power instantaneously.
Always supplies consistent voltage output (either increasing or decreasing) regardless of input voltage distortions.
Inverter Functionality:
Stores Energy in Batteries during normal Utility (Power Grid) Supply.
Detects Power Outage and Instantly Begins conversion of stored DC Energy into AC Power.
A short switching delay exists while transitioning from Power Grid Supply to Battery Power.
Which One Should You Choose?
When choosing between a UPS and an inverter, it’s important to consider your intended usage during a power loss.
- If you want to protect sensitive equipment such as computers and business via server, and medical devices such as laboratory equipment then a UPS is the best option.
- If you want to run common household appliances like lights, fans, refrigerators, televisions, and office lights, an inverter is both economical and convenient.
Oftentimes a combination of both options is best suited for most situations, such as a UPS for critical electronics and an inverter for common household items.
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Conclusion
While UPS and inverter solutions may appear to be very similar, they are intended for completely different applications for your electrical backup needs. A UPS provides instantaneous, continuous electrical power to sensitive electronic devices; whereas an inverter allows you the flexibility of providing extended backup power to your other household appliances and devices, with the added benefit of an occasional delay due to switching.
If you are having difficulty deciding which of these systems is right for your home, office, or commercial application, Capital Power Backup can help make your selection easier through their professional service and high-quality equipment. Capital Power Backup offer a wide range of reliable UPS and inverter systems, complete with all required equipment and installation services, as well as rental options to meet your individual needs. With the professional assistance and superior-quality equipment provided by Capital Power Backup, you will experience uninterrupted power availability when you need it most.