Paralleling inverter generators allows you to combine the power output of two compatible units to handle larger electrical loads than a single generator could manage.
Understanding the Core Concept
At its heart, paralleling involves connecting two inverter generators together so they operate as a single, more powerful unit. This is fundamentally different from connecting standard generators, which would likely cause damage due to unsynchronized power outputs. Inverter generators are designed with advanced electronics that make this synchronization possible.
How the Parallel Kit Works
The key component enabling this process is the parallel kit. Parallel kits work by synchronizing the output of two compatible inverter generators. This synchronization is crucial because electricity from different sources must perfectly match in voltage, frequency, and phase before it can be safely combined.
The kit typically consists of:
- Special Cables: These connect the parallel ports on each generator and often include a connection to the main power outlet where you'll plug in your devices or distribution box.
- A Control Module: This is the brains of the operation. The reference states that this module ensures both generators are perfectly in sync, sharing the load appropriately. It constantly monitors the output of both generators and makes tiny adjustments to their engines and inverters to keep them running in lockstep.
The Synchronization Process
- Connection: You connect the parallel kit cables between the two compatible inverter generators and plug the kit's output into your power distribution system.
- Starting Up: You start both generators.
- Electronic Control: The control module in the parallel kit takes over. It electronically synchronizes the AC power outputs of both generators. This means aligning their sine waves precisely so they add together smoothly without cancellations or surges.
- Load Sharing: As you connect devices or appliances (the "load"), the control module ensures that the electrical demand is shared between the two generators. If the load increases, both generators will sense this and ramp up their engine speed and power output proportionally, preventing one generator from being overloaded while the other coasts.
Benefits of Paralleling
- Increased Power Output: The primary benefit is doubling or significantly increasing your available wattage for higher-demand applications.
- Flexibility: You can use a single generator for small jobs or parallel two for larger power needs.
- Efficiency: Running two generators in parallel might be more fuel-efficient than running a single, larger, less-loaded generator.
- Redundancy: If one generator malfunctions, you still have power from the other.
Key Requirements
To parallel generators successfully, you generally need:
- Two compatible inverter generators (usually from the same manufacturer and sometimes the same model or series).
- A specific parallel kit designed for those models.
In essence, paralleling leverages the sophisticated electronics of inverter generators, coordinated by a parallel kit's control module, to safely combine their power and share the electrical load.
