Open Frame Vs Inverter With Heavy Loads

2oldman wrote:

mrekim wrote:
If the inverter at full load has the same noise level as the open frame generator then the only advantage of the open frame one seems to be weight.

I'm not sure you said that the way you meant to. The only advantage I've ever seen is price.

I already own a single open frame generator and a single inverter generator. The only reason to buy a 2nd inverter generator would be in order to be a good citizen when running the AC, probably infrequently. The only other possible reason for a 2nd inverter gen would be that it's somewhat more portable. I was really surprised to find out that running a pair of inverters in the 50-75% load was the same as an open frame generator - at least with the units I have.

2oldman wrote:

Many folks try to 'justify' the cheaper, louder gens by saying that the inverters are just as loud at full load - and that may well be true. But, what's ignored in that argument is that you don't (and shouldn't) run full load very often.

Agreed. I had the open frame unit first and have no regrets getting the inverter. If I only had the inverter, I wouldn't hesitate to get a 2nd inverter. Given what I already have, justifying a 2nd inverter for loads in the 16-20 amp range seems difficult.

2oldman wrote:

I can run air on my 2 Hondas, but it's not a common occurrence. 96% of my generator running is for battery charging, and that's a varying load. That's where inverter gens really shine.

I've tested charging and agree here too. I'm not anticipating needed to run A/C often but want that ability.

2oldman wrote:
I rarely see anyone using portable gens for running air. It's way more prevalent in MHs with built-ins.

I'm prepping for dry camping on the beach on the east coast in August. I want to prep for a few hours of AC time per day, if only to cool things down for lunch and dinner as a escape from the heat.