This article would answer questions like how does an inverter function, why do you need an inverter and many more. If you have been following our earlier articles you can very well define an inverter but for our first time readers. An inverter is an electronic device that converts one form of current to another like DC (direct current) to AC ( alternate current).
How does an Inverter Function?
An inverter system consist of a primary power source ( generator plant, solar panel or PHCN line), An inverter, batteries and load output. You need to have a clear picture of how this works and its very simple.
You cannot have backup energy if there is no stored energy. The battery is used for energy storage. The type of current we get from our national grid is called Alternate current while solar panels produce Direct current. I believe all the appliances we have in our houses are AC appliances. Since batteries store energy in DC and our appliances work with AC. That is where the inverter steps in to convert the stored DC power to AC power for our appliances.
An inverter on its own cannot provide backup power, you need to attach a battery to it. The size of your inverter depends on the capacity of the battery you would attach to it and keep in mind that the backup time period solely depends on your battery. An inverter is just a conversion medium.
Where does the inverter battery get it energy from?
Some of you may still wonder where the inverter battery gets energy from. Just as earlier explained there are multiple ways the inverter battery can be provided with energy. Inverter batteries are usually rechargeable batteries which means that they have to be supplied with electrical current that is then converted to DC and stored in the battery.
This same energy is then converted to AC by the inverter during the backup period. There are instances where the batteries are charged by means of solar power, this is now becoming a common practice in most Nigerian homes.