Inverters convert your stored battery power (12V or 24V DC) over to 230V (AC) for appliances. They convert the stored DC power generated by the wind into pulses of AC power which is compatible with common household appliances. The inverter can then either be wired into a lighting ring or your electrical appliances can be plugged directly into the inverter.
There are two different types of inverter known as the pure sinewave inverter (Cotek) and the modified sinewave inverter (Genius). The difference being that pure sinewave inverters copy the pattern of main electricity more closely than the modified sinewave inverter. Appliances such as low energy light bulbs, computers, laptops, phone chargers and some small TVs can be run from a modified inverter whereas appliances with motors and fluorescent lights will require a pure sinewave inverter. Also higher powered appliances such as large televisions and hi-fi's will need a pure sinewave inverter.
Another function of the inverter is to protect the battery from deep discharge as running a battery down too low can cause damage. Avoiding deep discharge of the battery keeps it in good shape therefore increasing the life span. An alarm alerts you when your battery is running low, this is then followed by the shutdown of the battery in order for enough battery power to be stored for essential functions.
Remember to choose an inverter suitable for the appliance you wish to run off it (e.g. 150W inverter = 150W appliance such as a small radio) as well as choosing an appropriate battery.