What is an Inverter Drive: Why Your Business Needs One
If you’ve ever stood in a loud plant room or watched machinery constantly power up and down, you’ll know how hard your systems are working, and how much energy might be slipping through the cracks.
We recently worked with a client who was frustrated by rising energy bills and unnecessary wear on their motors. The solution? Installing an inverter drive!
This is a simple but powerful bit of kit that allowed them to control motor speed more efficiently. Almost immediately, they saw a reduction in energy use and a smoother start-up process across their systems.
So what exactly is an inverter drive?
In short, it’s a device that controls the speed and torque of electric motors by adjusting the frequency and voltage supplied. Instead of motors running full speed constantly (even when they don’t need to), an inverter drive allows for more precision, meaning lower energy costs, longer equipment life, and better control.
Inverter Drives and VFD in Commercial Setups
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), which are also known as inverter drives are becoming essential in commercial environments where energy efficiency, control, and equipment longevity matter.
From HVAC systems in office buildings to water pumps in warehouses and conveyor systems in manufacturing, VFDs allow motors to run at optimal speeds based on demands, resulting in cutting energy use, reducing wear, and improving performance. In modern facilities, they’re often integrated into Building Management Systems (BMS), helping streamline operations and meet sustainability targets. Whether you’re retrofitting older equipment or planning a new installation, VFDs offer a smart, future-ready solution.
- HVAC systems
- Pumps and fans
- Conveyor belts
- Any motor-driven commercial machinery
Top Inverter Drives for Commercial and Industrial Use
When it comes to choosing the right inverter drive for your commercial electrical needs, several trusted brands stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and advanced features. Popular drives on the market today include the Siemens SINAMICS, known for its robust performance in industrial environments; the Schneider Electric Altivar series, praised for its energy-saving capabilities and user-friendly interface; the ABB ACS series, offering versatile control options across a wide range of applications; the Danfoss VLT drives, recognised for their compact design and easy integration; and the Yaskawa A1000, which delivers precise motor control and high efficiency.
Selecting the right model depends on your specific application requirements, but these industry leaders provide excellent starting points for commercial systems seeking improved energy efficiency and motor performance.
Choosing the right inverter drive is just the first step, but ensuring compatibility with your existing control systems is crucial for seamless upgrades and maximising performance.
Learn more about our control system upgrades and how we ensure perfect inverter drive compatibility on our Control Panel Services page.
Installing, Repairing, and Upgrading Inverter Drives
We provide expert installation, repair, and upgrading of VDF drives (also known as Variable Frequency Drives or VFDs) to help businesses improve energy efficiency, motor control, and equipment reliability.
Whether you’re fitting a new system, troubleshooting faults, or looking to optimise performance, our commercial electricians ensure your inverter drives are configured to meet the unique demands of your setup. From HVAC and pump systems to production lines and conveyors, we deliver tailored solutions that reduce downtime, extend motor life, and save on running costs.
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Ready to Make the Switch?
As a specialist in commercial electrical services, we can help you assess whether an upgrade fits your site. We can advise on the best units, size your system correctly, and handle professional installation and commissioning.