Finding The Best Portable Generator for Your Needs
Portable generators have become an important component of our lives. They provide an alternative source of electrical power when the grid power is not in operation. They also provide power to areas not covered by the grid system. A portable generator can provide service in construction sites, camping sites and even on recreational vehicles.
In the home or office, a portable generator provides electrical power to stand alone devices such as a home stereo, television set or even a computer.
They are available in various sizes depending on your need. The beauty with portable generators is that they do not need the expertise of a professional to install. Extension cords connect your appliance to the portable generator.
Portable generators use fuel from any number of sources. Fuel sources include gasoline, diesel, propane, natural gas or bio-diesel. The fuel type used also has a bearing on the cost of the portable generator. Most generators receive fuel from on board tanks and therefore only operate for a limited period.
Gasoline Powered
Generators that use gasoline to operate are slightly cheaper than those that use other fuel types. Gasoline powered generators require stabilized gasoline stocks to operate. Stabilized gasoline has a shelf life of about two years after which it needs to be discarded. Gasoline powered generators need frequent maintenance to prevent cold weather start up problems caused by gum deposits on the fuel system.
Diesel Powered
Diesel powered generators are a bit more expensive. Diesel has a longer shelf life, is less flammable and the engine is less noisy. Propane has a long shelf life. Portable generators that use propane have multi-fuel capability. Where one type of fuel is not available, a simple adjustment will allow it to operate on another type of fuel.
Features
Features that you require will determine the generator you buy. Most portable generators have an electrical switch component for easy start up. They are also fitted with circuit breakers to avoid damage caused by overloading. Most are also fitted with wheels to allow easy mobility. Sensitive gadgets such as computers and printers require a generator with inverter technology to provide clean power.
Connecting Your Generator
Connecting devices to the portable generator is a simple matter. You only need extension cables to connect a device in the house and the generator. Portable generators should be at least 15 feet away to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and accumulation of dangerous fumes. You need to provide shelter for the generator to protect it from snow and rain. Always choose a model that has received certification from a recognized quality agency such as Underwriters Laboratories(UL).
Use heavy-duty extension cords to connect your appliances to the generator. To reduce the number of extension cables required, use a 4-wire extension cord. That way you are able to power more devices at a go. Portable generators may also back up the grid source in the house by connecting through a transfer switch. A transfer switch isolates the generator from the grid system and prevents back feeding which is dangerous for both the generator and the grid system.
Example of a Portable Generator
The Generac 5626 GP7000E is a good example of a portable generator that provides efficient service wherever required. A strong steel tube structure protects the generator from external damage. It is fitted with wheels allowing portability over any kind of terrain. It is suitable for use at home, at a construction site and even on a campsite.
Other features include a low tone muffler that enables quiet operation and an electrical ignition system to facilitate easy start-up. It is fitted with an air and an oil filter that sifts dirt and other undesirable substances from the engine thus allowing smooth operation of the generator.
The generator is fitted with an Overhead Value Industrial (OHVI) engine, which has a number of great features such as 200-hour service between oil changes and a full pressure lubrication system that oils all the critical areas of the engine as it runs. It is also fitted with an 8-liter steel tank that provides at least 11 hours of uninterrupted service.
The Generac 5626 GP7000E provides 7000 watts of output and is capable of powering security systems and computer systems. It provides essential service for outdoor events such as parties by powering musical systems, electrical grills and lights.
This portable generator is capable of powering lawn mowers and other workshop machinery such as table saws. It is fitted with a circuit breaker to prevent power overloads and allows clean supply of power to all your appliances. This generator has a two-year warranty.
Summary
In summary decide on the generator that you buy, based on the features and electrical load that you will be requiring. The fuel type that you decide on will greatly effect the purchase price and the long-term performance (and maintenance ) of your generator.
Always be sure to use proper connection equipment and cords when using your generator.
About the Author
Get help finding the best portable generator for your needs at http://www.aboutgenerators.com/best-portable-generator.html . Michael Boyter provides unbiased information about power generators, as well as solar and wind power generators at http://www.aboutgenerators.com
Small Generators: Suitcase Type
Suitcase generators are generally the size of a standard luggage and often come with a carrying handle hence the name "suitcase" was given. These electrical generators have compact sizes therefore they are really great for emergency situations or used during camping trips. They are comparatively quiet and majority of them are powered by a single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled engine. They weigh relatively light with few models available around the 30 pounds range. The common ones are those around 50 pounds and there are few that weigh up to 70 pounds. The size will depend on your intended usage and the latest models usually come with an inverter to provide a more stabilized power output.
In the United States, if you are living in a state that has adopted the California Air Resource Board (CARB) standard, the small generators you purchase should be CARB compliant. Even if the generator is CARB compliant, it can still excrete emissions and all generators are invented for outside use only. You can use the extension cord to immediately supply the power to your electrical devices during a blackout.
The generators should not be used in the house or in any closed area as they will emit gases like carbon monoxide, an odorless yet invisible gas that may cause death. Always remind yourself that the exhaust put off by any generators, including the suitcase generators is similar to that of your vehicle's exhaust fumes. Besides, as the generators are invented to generate electricity, any exposure to water can result in electrocution of anyone in the immediate vicinity or an electrical fire. Although they are handy during blackouts, do not place them in the house or out in the rain. Locate it at a garage area should be suffice but it is still better to seek a professional's help to prevent any unwanted occurrences.
The average run-time is approximately five hours but as it operates on the same fuel to your lawn mower, this is not a fairly primary issue. There are only few small generators that run on diesel in the suitcase style. Most of the diesel generators are not produced extensively as diesel is usually used on heavy duty equipment. Even with the presence of wheeled generators, the suitcase type is still the handier option during any situations as you can easily carry it in one hand.
About the Author
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