When it comes to providing continuous power during emergency or power outage scenarios, investing in a portable generator is an intelligent investment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the selection process for selecting an ideal portable generator suited for your specific needs, taking into account factors like power output, fuel type and extra features such as noise pollution levels. By the end of this article, you’ll have all of the information required to make an informed decision and secure a reliable backup power source in your home.
Assess Your Power Needs
To choose a portable generator, the first step should be assessing your total wattage needs during an emergency situation. You can do this by listing all devices you intend to power with their approximate wattages; such as:
- Refrigerator/Freezer: 600-800 watts
- Television: 100-350 watts
- Laptop: 250 watts
- Microwave: 1200 watts
- Space Heater: 1250 watts
Calculate Total Wattage
To calculate the total wattage needed, follow these steps:
- Write down the running watts for each appliance on your list.
- Identify the item with the highest additional starting watts.
- Add this number to your total running watts.
The final number represents the minimum starting watts your portable generator must provide. Please keep in mind that appliances with motors, such as refrigerators or sump pumps, require additional starting watts to account for an initial power surge when starting them up.
Choose the Right Type of Portable Generator
When selecting an emergency generator to power your household appliances, there are two primary categories of generators you should keep in mind: standby generators and portable generators.
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Home Standby Generators
Home standby generators are installed permanently and designed to supply significant power when your main electricity supply fails, automatically starting when needed. While these models tend to be more costly and often require professional installation, they provide multiple circuits within your home with power without manual intervention or interruption from other outlets.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are smaller, mobile units that must be manually started and connected to appliances to function. As these units tend to be more affordable and versatile than their larger counterparts, portable generators make for great short-term emergencies or outdoor recreational activities.
Consider Fuel Type
Portable generators utilize various forms of fuel, including gasoline and liquid propane (LP). Each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks; so you must consider availability, cost and power requirements before selecting a fuel type for use in your portable generator.
Gasoline Generators
Gasoline is an easily accessible fuel source, making it a popular choice for portable generators. Unfortunately, however, its shelf life is shorter and a gas powered generator may require more frequent maintenance checks.
Liquid Propane (LP) Generators
Liquid propane generators offer greater fuel storage capacity and cleaner-burning operation when compared with gasoline models, as well as being more fuel-efficient and will produce fewer emissions. Unfortunately, however, these types of LP generators may have lower overall power output compared to their gasoline equivalents.
Dual-Fuel Generators
Dual-fuel generators give you the versatility of operating on either gasoline or liquid propane, giving you more choice and cost effectiveness for meeting your individual needs and circumstances.
Evaluate Portability and Size
Size and portability are key considerations when selecting a backup power source for household appliances. Smaller generators may be easier to store or transport, yet may offer limited power output.
Wheel Kits and Handles
When considering the portability of a generator, look for features like wheel kits and foldable handles that make moving and storing it simpler.
Noise Level
Generators can be loud, which may be an issue if you live in an urban environment. To minimize disruption and maintain good relationships with your neighbors, invest in a quiet generator; some models produce noise levels as low as 55 dBA – comparable to normal conversation levels.
Additional Features and Accessories
Portable generators feature numerous accessories to increase their performance, safety, and convenience. Some examples are:
- Electric start
- Automatic voltage regulation
- Fuel gauge and low-oil shutoff
- A manual fuel shutoff valve
- Overhead valve (OHV) engine
- Spark arrestor
- Multiple outlets with covers
Before selecting a generator, it is important to prioritize features based on your unique needs and budget.
Maintenance and Storage
Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your portable generator working at peak condition, with some basic tasks including:
- Checking and replacing engine oil
- Inspecting and replacing spark plugs
- Cleaning and replacing air filters
- Running the generator for a test once a month
- Inspecting and cleaning fuel filters and gas tanks
- Inspecting and fixing any loose bolts, wires, or rusty parts
Proper storage is also key to optimizing performance and prolonging the lifespan of your generator, including using a fuel stabilizer or draining the excess fuel from your generator to prevent gum deposits and clogged carburetors.
Transfer Switches and Interlock Devices
A transfer switch or an interlock device is essential in connecting your portable generator safely with your home’s electrical system, protecting both it, your appliances, and the electrical grid from damage caused by backfeed. Professional electricians should install these devices for you as their cost should be factored into your generator budget.
Local Laws and Regulations
Before purchasing a portable generator, be aware of any local laws or regulations concerning noise levels or emissions. Some areas may have stringent requirements that limit which generator types you can use.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Carbon monoxide poisoning is an ever-present risk when using portable generators. This odorless, colorless gas can be lethal if mismanaged. For your own and your family’s safety, never operate one inside an enclosed space or near your home – always use a carbon monoxide detector when operating one!
By carefully considering all these elements, you can confidently choose a portable generator to power your household appliances, electronic devices, or power tools. Be sure to prioritize power needs, assess portability and fuel type needs as well as any features or accessories that best meet them – this way, having a backup generator in place gives you peace of mind during emergency power outages or emergencies.
