Generac GP5500 Gas Powered Portable Generator

• Generac 5939 GP5500 5500 Gas Powered Portable Generator

waveform and harmonic distortion

The Generac GP5500 is a conventional generator, not an inverter generator. This means it doesn't use inverter technology to produce its power output. Instead, it relies on a standard alternator to generate AC power directly.

As a result, the GP5500 typically produces a standard sine wave, but it's not as smooth or clean as a pure sine wave from inverter generators. The wave may contain some level of harmonic distortion, but it’s closer to a sine wave than a square or modified square wave.

Running sensitive electronics like an LCD television or a desktop computer on a non-inverter generator, like the Generac GP5500, can be risky. Non-inverter generators tend to have higher levels of Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), which can cause irregular power that sensitive devices may not handle well. High THD can lead to issues like overheating, signal interference, or even hardware damage over time.

Here are a few options to protect your electronics when using a generator like the GP5500:

Use a Line-Interactive UPS: A line-interactive UPS can provide additional power conditioning, smoothing out fluctuations. Make sure the UPS can handle the generator’s THD and load capacity.

Install a Power Conditioner: Some power conditioners can help reduce harmonic distortion and provide a cleaner power output to connected devices.

The Generac GP5500 typically has a Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of around 10-15%, which is relatively common for non-inverter generators. This level of THD is acceptable for many general appliances and power tools but is generally considered too high for sensitive electronics, which ideally need a THD of 5% or lower.

If you’re looking for reliable power conditioning for a small-to-medium sensitive load, Tripp Lite LC1800 or APC LE1200/LE1500 would be economical and effective choices. For setups requiring higher capacity and more extensive filtration, Furman P-1800 AR offers the best solution with its voltage regulation and advanced filtering, though it comes at a premium price.