Apart from powering essential electrical appliances such as heaters, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, etc., we also use generators to power a bunch of electronics. Some of them are computers, laptops, smartphones, TVs, Audio equipment, speakers, etc. Even though the output power of a portable or standby generator is 120V or 240V at 60 Hz, it is not as clean as the power from the utility. If the power is not clean, sensitive electronics do not like it. They might fail to operate, overheat, or be damaged beyond repair. So, how to make a generator safe for electronics?
In this guide, we will explore the power output of a typical generator and answer some important questions such as “Are generators safe or bad for electronics?”, “What factors of a generator contributes to the problem with electronics?”, and the important one “How to make a generator safe for electronics?”.
Why Generators are Bad for Electronics?
Generators are not inherently bad for electronics, but the quality of the power they produce can sometimes be problematic for certain types of electronic equipment.
Traditional generators produce AC power that can have voltage and frequency variations, which may not be suitable for sensitive electronics like computers, laptops, smartphones, or other electronic devices with microprocessors.
The main issue is that traditional generators often produce power with high levels of Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). THD is a measure of the distortion present in an electrical signal, and it can cause problems for electronic devices that are sensitive to changes in voltage or current.
High levels of THD can cause voltage fluctuations, overheating, interference, and data errors in electronic equipment. These effects can cause damage to components, reduce performance, or even cause the equipment to fail. In extreme cases, high THD can even pose a safety risk.
Are Generators Safe for Electronics?
Generators can be safe for electronics, but it depends on several factors. Inverter generators, for example, can produce a cleaner and more stable AC power output with very low levels of THD. This makes them a good choice for powering sensitive electronic equipment.
Inverter generators use advanced electronics to convert the AC power produced by the generator into DC power and then back into stable AC power with a pure sine wave output.
This is similar to the power supplied by the grid. The pure sine wave output is ideal for running sensitive electronics without damaging them. This clean output is ideal for running computers, laptops, smartphones, and other devices with microprocessors.
In short, generators are not inherently bad for electronics, but the quality of the power they produce can sometimes be problematic.
To avoid potential problems, it is important to choose a generator with a low THD output or use additional equipment, such as an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), to filter the power supply and protect sensitive electronics.
If you’re using a traditional generator to power your electronics, it’s important to take precautions to ensure their safety, such as using a surge protector, ensuring proper grounding, and avoiding overloading the generator.
On the other hand, if you’re using an inverter generator, you can use it to power sensitive electronics without any concern about damaging them.
What is Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)?
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) is a measure of the harmonic distortion present in an electrical signal. Harmonic distortion refers to the presence of frequencies in a signal that is not present in the original waveform, but any nonlinearities in the system can generate them.
These harmonics can cause interference and distortion in the signal, which can have a variety of negative effects on electronic equipment.
Normally, we express THD as a percentage by calculating or measuring the root mean square (RMS) voltage of all the harmonic frequencies present in a signal and dividing it by the RMS voltage of the fundamental frequency.
We then multiply the resulting value by 100 to give the THD percentage.
For example, let us assume a signal has a fundamental frequency of 60 Hz and it contains harmonic frequencies of 120 Hz, 120 Hz, and 240 Hz.
We can calculate the THD by measuring the RMS voltage of all those harmonic frequencies and dividing it by the RMS voltage of the fundamental frequency (60 Hz). If we multiply the resulting value by 100, it gives the THD percentage.
THD is an important factor to consider when selecting equipment for use with sensitive electronics, such as audio and video equipment. Lower THD values generally indicate a cleaner, more stable electrical signal that is less likely to cause interference or distortion.
THD in generators
THD is an important parameter to consider when evaluating the quality of electrical power produced by generators. Traditional generators produce AC power with a significant amount of harmonic distortion, typically in the range of 5 to 15% THD.
This can be problematic for sensitive electronic equipment, as the harmonics can cause interference and distortion in the electrical signal.
Inverter generators, on the other hand, produce a much cleaner electrical signal with very low levels of THD, typically less than 3%. They achieve this through the use of advanced electronics that convert the AC power produced by the generator into DC power and then back into stable AC power with a pure sine wave output.
This clean output is ideal for running sensitive electronic equipment, such as computers, laptops, smartphones, audio equipment, speakers, etc.
So, when selecting a generator for use with sensitive electronic equipment, it is important to consider the THD value of the generator’s output.
In general, generators with lower THD values are better suited for powering sensitive electronic equipment. If you’re not sure about the THD value of a particular generator, check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult with an expert in electrical power systems.
Why is high THD bad for electronics?
High Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) in electrical power can have negative effects on electronic equipment in several ways. Here are a few reasons why high THD is bad for electronics:
Voltage Fluctuations
High THD can cause voltage fluctuations in the power supply, which can lead to unstable operation of electronic equipment. Fluctuating voltage levels can cause components to malfunction, generate excess heat, or even fail.
Overheating
If the power supply has high THD, it can cause electrical equipment to overheat. This is because harmonic frequencies generate additional heat in components that are not designed to handle them.
Overheating can cause damage to electronic components, reduce their lifespan, or even cause them to fail.
Interference
High THD can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can affect the performance of electronic equipment. Harmonic frequencies can interfere with the proper functioning of electronic circuits and cause distortion or noise in audio and video signals.
Data Errors
Most of the communication today is digital and High THD can cause data errors in digital equipment. The distorted power supply can cause errors in data transmission, leading to data loss or corruption.
Overall, high THD can result in decreased performance, shortened lifespan, or even damage to electronic equipment. This is why it’s important to use power sources with low THD when operating sensitive electronic devices.
Inverter generators are a good example of a power source with low THD, making them ideal for use with sensitive electronics.
How to Make a Generator Safe for Electronics?
If you’re using a generator to power your electronic devices, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips to make your generator safe for electronics:
Use a Surge Protector
Plug your electronic devices into a surge protector to protect them from power surges or spikes that can damage them. Using a surge protector with a generator can be a good idea to protect electronic equipment from voltage spikes and surges that can occur when the generator starts up or when there are changes in the electrical load.
A surge protector is a device that can absorb and dissipate electrical surges, protecting connected equipment from damage.
Choose the right type of surge protector. Not all surge protectors are suitable for use with generators. Look for a surge protector that has a specific rating for use with portable generators.
Calculate the power requirements of all the devices you want to connect to the generator. Make sure that the surge protector is having a surge rating to handle this power requirement.
The total power requirements of the connected devices should not exceed the maximum output capacity of the generator.
Connect or plug the surge protector directly into the generator rather than using an extension cord. This will reduce the risk of voltage drop and electrical interference.
Always turn off the generator before plugging in or unplugging devices (connecting or disconnecting devices) from the surge protector. This will help prevent electrical spikes or surges that can damage the equipment.
Test the surge protector periodically. Surge protectors can wear out over time, so it’s a good idea to test them every once in a while, to ensure that they are still providing adequate protection.
Overall, using a surge protector with a generator can help protect electronic equipment from voltage spikes and surges. Just be sure to choose the right type of surge protector, calculate the power requirements, and follow the proper safety precautions.
Use an Inverter Generator
Inverter generators are an excellent choice for powering electronic devices because they produce a stable, high-quality electrical output that is similar to the power from a standard electrical outlet.
The first and most important advantage of an Inverter Generator is its Low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). Inverter generators use advanced electronics to produce a clean, stable electrical output with very low levels of THD.
This means that the power they produce is less likely to cause voltage fluctuations or other problems that can damage electronic equipment. Also, inverter generators produce a pure sine wave output that closely approximates the quality of the electrical power supplied by utility companies.
This type of output is ideal for sensitive electronic devices, including laptops, smartphones, and other devices with microprocessors.
Inverter generators have a variable engine-speed design. Hence, they are highly fuel-efficient, and also, they can run for longer periods on a single tank of fuel than traditional generators.
This is important for powering electronic devices, which often require power for extended periods.
Inverter generators are generally smaller and lighter than traditional generators, making them more portable and easier to move around. This is especially important if you need to power electronic devices in remote or off-grid locations.
Overall, inverter generators are an excellent choice for powering electronic devices, thanks to their low THD, pure sine wave output, fuel efficiency, and portability. If you need to power electronic equipment on the go, an inverter generator is likely the best choice.
Use Surge Arrestors
While we use surge protectors in the form of power strips to protect individual devices from surges, we can use surge arresters to protect the entire electrical system from surges.
A surge arrester is a device designed to protect electrical and electronic equipment from voltage surges or spikes.
The surge arrester works by diverting the excess voltage from the electrical circuit into a grounding wire or system, preventing it from damaging the equipment.
Surge arresters typically consist of a metal oxide varistor (MOV) or gas discharge tube (GDT) connected between the power line and the ground.
When a surge occurs, the MOV or GDT will conduct the excess voltage to the ground, thus protecting the equipment from damage.
One option for surge protection with a generator is to use a surge arrester specifically designed for generator applications. We typically install these surge arresters between the generator and the electrical panel.
They can handle the unique electrical characteristics of generators, such as their lower voltage output and the presence of harmonics.
Appearance-wise, home surge arrestors look like circuit breakers. We have to install them in the main breaker panel. In this way, all the circuits that you use with the generator will have protection from the surge arrestor.
Use UPS (Uninterruptable Power Supply) with a Generator
UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply, which is an electrical device that provides emergency power to a load when the main power source fails.
We commonly use UPS with sensitive electronic equipment such as computers to protect them from power outages, voltage fluctuations, and other power-related problems.
A UPS typically includes a battery backup that provides power to connected devices for a short period, usually a few minutes, allowing them to shutdown safely or to continue running until the power comes back.
UPS systems can also provide power conditioning, surge protection, and other features to improve the quality and reliability of the power supplied to connected equipment.
Using a UPS in conjunction with a generator can provide even greater protection against power outages and other power-related problems.
When a power outage occurs, the UPS provides immediate backup power to connected devices, allowing them to continue running without interruption.
However, the battery backup of a UPS has a limited runtime, typically only a few minutes to an hour depending on the capacity of the UPS and the power requirements of the devices that we connected to it.
When using a UPS with a generator, the UPS will filter all the voltage spikes and fluctuations from the generator.
It is important to ensure that the generator is compatible with the UPS and you have to properly configure them. The size of the generator and UPS should be appropriate to handle the power requirements of the devices that you want to power.
Also, install an automatic transfer switch to seamlessly switch power sources when necessary.
UPS systems are available in a variety of sizes and capacities, ranging from small, desktop models that can protect a single computer, to large, rack-mounted units that can power entire data centers.
Use Generators with AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation)
Generators with Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) can provide stable and consistent power output, even when the load on the generator changes.
An AVR is a device that is a part of the generator’s control system and monitors the generator’s output voltage. If the voltage drops below a certain level, the AVR will increase the excitation current to the generator’s rotor. This will increase the generator’s output voltage.
Conversely, if the voltage rises above a certain level, the AVR will decrease the excitation current to the rotor, which reduces the generator’s output voltage.
By maintaining a consistent output voltage, generators with AVRs can help protect electronic devices from power-related problems such as voltage surges or dips, which can cause damage to sensitive electronics.
Generators with AVRs are popular in applications where stable and reliable power is critical, such as in hospitals, data centers, or other facilities where power outages or voltage fluctuations can have serious consequences on the electronics.
Additional Steps
- Make sure to properly ground your generator to prevent any electrical shock hazards.
- Do not overload the generator. Check the wattage of your electronic devices and make sure you don’t exceed the maximum power output of your generator. Overloading your generator can damage your electronics.
- Use high-quality and “generator-grade” extension cords. Choose heavy-duty extension cords with proper ratings for outdoor use and can handle the wattage of your devices.
- Keep the generator dry and away from flammable materials. Do not operate your generator in wet conditions, and keep it away from flammable materials to prevent fire hazards.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your generator is safe for your electronic devices and minimize the risk of damage or accidents.
Conclusion
Backup Generators are very useful devices as they allow you to power different electrical and electronic devices or appliances in the event of power failure. Many generator users with expensive and sensitive electronics have doubts regarding their safety when using generators.
Their concerns are real as the power output from most portable (and cheap) generators is not clean (and often called dirty). So, how to make a generator safe for electronics?
In this guide, we saw the answer to this question. Inverter Generators, Surge Protectors, Surge Arrestors, and Generators with AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulators) are some ways to use generators safely with electronics.
We hope that this guide on making generators safe for use with sensitive electronics could help you understand the basics of power output from generators, THD, etc. If you feel we missed something or want us to add anything, do let us know in the comments section below. It will not only help us but also other readers.
