Inverter generators differ from standard generators in the way power is delivered. Total harmonic distortion (THD) is the measure of how much the power output varies from the ideal. The higher the THD, the more the power output will vary from the ideal wave form. Standard generators typically allow up to 20% variance in THD, while inverter generators tightly control THD to 5% or less variation. While items like power tools can handle varying levels of THD, high levels of THD are not good for sensitive electronics like computers and televisions. A high level of THD interferes with proper operation, and in severe cases, can damage these sensitive electronics. Household items that used to be very basic in nature are now regularly having sensitive electronics added to them. It used to be that your refrigerator wasn’t much more than an electric motor attached to a compressor (which normally can handle a wide range of power input), but now even refrigerators can have touch screens installed! Review what you plan to run with your generator, and choose accordingly. If you are uncertain, it will never hurt to use an inverter generator for any application, so it will always be the safest choice.
