A portable generator is able to provide power anywhere at any time. They can be used for emergencies during power outages or some quick power while camping. How portable the generator is, what type of fuel it uses, and how much power it can provide is dependent on the model. When shopping for a generator, make sure to narrow the search based on what situation it will be used in most often. Focusing on certain options will help isolate the best unit for the job.

Portability

Generators can come in small packages, but there are caveats to every size available. Remember that the size of the generator will affect how much power the unit will provide. The smallest class of generator is usually only rated for one appliance at a time. In addition to having smaller engines, generators that can be carried with one hand will need to be refueled more often than bigger ones. Medium-sized portable generators will last longer, but full size units will have more fuel and power options. Larger portable machines may come with a wheels attached to the frame, but they are hardly as easy to move as the tiny introductory models. The portable units that provide the most power are so big that they are mounted on their own trailer.

Since there is a wide margin between the biggest and smallest portable generators, find a balance between the amount of power needed and the amount of space available. For instance, the ability to run many different appliances may sound appealing, but the largest generator models will require a truck for transportation, more storage, and more space in order to run and vent safely.

Fuel

There are several options available for fueling portable generators. Smaller models are more likely to use gasoline or propane for energy. Larger units are almost exclusively diesel. Since all generators produce energy through combustions, they cannot be run in an enclosed space. Make sure they are outside and cleared of debris so that the heat and carbon monoxide can dissipate.

Gasoline and diesel are often the most popular choices for fuel because it is easy to keep these liquids on hand. However, propane is a very efficient way to provide power and is available at most gas stations. As the cost of oil rises, propane is becoming a cheaper option than the others. Also, these generators can be hooked directly into a line for a steady stream of fuel.

Power Output

Obviously, smaller units will not be able to provide as much power as their larger counterparts. Many generators have their power rating incorporated into their name. This is usually the output of the generator in watts. All appliances require a certain amount of wattage to run. If that number is smaller than the rating of the generator, the unit will power it. However, many devices require a surge of power to get started. The generator needs to be rated above the starting wattage of the appliance or else it will not provide enough power to turn the device on. Not all appliances use more energy on startup, but it is wise to check in order to avoid overloading the generator.

Top Portable Generators

Since generators are used in many different capacities, finding the right one is not a difficult process. Companies that manufacture vehicles, like Honda and Yamaha, are known for their reliable engines; this allows them to provide high quality generators as well. There are a number of quality manufacturers that deal strictly in generators. The top product in each category is mainly a matter of personal opinion.

Generators with automatic start options are available for those who dislike starting a generator by hand. Others may be concerned with noise, longevity, or fuel efficiency. The large generator market ensures that any consumer can find just the perfect unit.

The best way to go about picking the perfect generator is by doing some research. Product reviews and consumer reports should reveal the best generator for a chosen job. Thorough research helps the buyer choose which product works best for their situation, but the research should not stop after the purchase is made. Always read the operations manual before using the equipment for the first time, and make sure to follow all safety rules.

In order to get the most out of the new generator, refuel carefully, and don’t overload the unit. If handled properly, a quality generator will be able to grace camping trips, improve cookouts, and save the day during emergencies for many years to come.



Thanks to Brian Jenkins for contributing this article to our Generators blog:

Emergency Backup Generator

Ok, so you want to know how to find the right generator but don’t quite know where to start? Fortunately, there are many ways that you can go about doing this. There are many brands of good portable generators that you may want to consider trying out, such as - Yamaha, Mitsubishi, and Honda generators, among so many more big names for you to choose from. The type of portable generator that you will end up buying can depend on various factors.

- What are the reasons that you plan on putting the portable generator to use for? Since the reasons as to why a person would find the need for one of these are plentiful, here are some of the most common: having a backup source of energy or power when there is no main source available, in the event of an emergency or disaster you can have a portable generator in place as extra security, if you are camping with family or friends, or if you are using it for some kind of outside project that requires a power source. No matter what the reason, you will find that having a generator would be a wise choice.

- The amount of energy or power needed should also be taken into consideration. In order to do this, you need to have an accurate idea of the number and size of the items that will need to be powered and for how long. To figure out the size that will be right for you and your situation, there are portable generator charts and worksheets that you can compare online and will help you to get the right size unit.

- Do you plan on using the portable generator daily or frequently? If you know for a fact that you will be using your generator on a constant and on-going basis, for instance at work for a company that works primarily outdoors - it is pretty much a necessity for you to get a portable generator that will be not only proficient, but reliable as well and help you to do what you are trying to achieve with no problems. If you plan on using it every once in a while, focus on getting a generator that will start hassle free after not running for a long time.

- If the amount of noise going to be a problem at all? If so, you may want to consider investing into something that will run smoothly and quietly, since some portable generators are known to be loud and clunky. If noise is an issue, there are kits available that can reduce the noise output significantly.

- Would you consider going with a more cost-effective unit over a name brand portable generator? Units that are from well known brands, like Yamaha Portable Generators or Mitsubishi, are almost always more expensive than brands of lower recognition. Fortunately though, there are many quality generators that are low cost that may not be well known among many consumers. To find one of these, make sure to try and get a portable generator with an engine that has been made by a big name brand.



Thanks to Robert Turner for contributing this article to our Generators blog:

Emergency Power Generators

Before we get into choosing a portable generator, let\’s review exactly what a portable generator is, and what the standard uses for them are.

What is a portable generator? Typical portable generators are fueled by unleaded gasoline and have standard 120-volt power outlets like the outlets you have on the walls of your home.

What can portable generators be used for? Portable generators are extremely versatile and can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Among the most common uses of a portable generator are:

- Providing power for a home in an emergency

- Power in locations that do not have access to standard eletric outlets

- Recreational use, such as at campsites and in RVs.

How do I use a portable generator? When the generator is running, you simply plug in your tools or appliances into the 120-volt (standard) electric outlets. Some models of generators also have 240-volt outlets. 240-volt outlets are used for large appliances like clothes dryers.

Now, let\’s talk about what to look for when choosing the right portable generator for you.

How high of a power capacity do I need?

Generators use two basic power measurements: peak power (sometimes referred to as startup power), and continuous power. Both kinds of power are measured in wattage.

- Peak power is the required wattage that appliances need at startup or when they are running at their highest power consumption levels.

- Continuous power is the required wattage to operate appliances under normal circumstances.

What are standby generators? Standby generators are generators that create anywhere from 5,000 to 25,000 watts of power (sometimes even more). You need to choose a generator that supplies enough peak power and continuous power for the appliances that you need to keep powered.

What are you going to use your generator for? For recreational use, A small 1,000-watt portable generator could be all you will need. If you need to power tools at a remote jobsite, you could require up to about 8,000 watts of power.

Another thing to consider is how many outlets you will need on your generator. Make sure there are enough outlets to power all of the appliances you will be using at one time.

The size of the fuel tank is another consideration and is very important. Depending on how long you will potentially need your portable generator to run, you may need a larger fuel tank. The larger the fuel tank, the longer your generator will be able to run without refueling.

Now that you know what to look for, you can compare different portable generators and find out which one will meet your needs. A good resource for your research can be found at this portable generator reference website.



Thanks to David Clair for contributing this article to our Generators blog:

Making Money Online

Portable generators are critical to have in emergencies or for use in areas where there is no traditional electricity. Always keep in mind there are safety issues related to the proper use of the generators. First is electric shock, second is carbon monoxide poisoning, and last is the danger of fire.

Portable generators can cause electrocution if they are left in the rain or sitting in water. Keep the generator under a canopy where it is protected, but not totally enclosed. It must still have adequate ventillation. Never touch the generator when you are standing in water or your hands are wet. Never run extension cords through water of any kind. Keep all unauthorized people away from the unit while it is operating.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is given off in the generator’s exhaust. That is why a generator should never be used indoors or in any encloed space where exhaust can accumulate. Flowing air ventillation is recommended which will take exhaust away from any living area. If you ever start to feel dizzy or sick, shut the portabel generator off immediately and move to fresh air.

Fires can be caused with portable generators in two ways. Fuel should never be stored indoors and always in properly marked containers. It should also not be stored in any room where there is a gas water heater since fumes can be ignited along the ground if any fuel is spilled. And a generator must be allowed to cool completely down before refueling, since any fuel spilled on a hot engine will ignite.

Make sure all extension cords are of high enough rating for whatever load they are to carry. Also check for fraying, exposed wires or areas where the cord may be underneath something else and is hard to see. Many people will put cords under rugs or furniture, but this can harm the cord and hide any defects in the cord.

Check cords when the portable generator is operating to make sure they are not overheating. Overheating is an indication of too much load for the cord or else damaged wires inside the cord. Even though the cords may be rated for the load you have, if compressors are turning on and off, the load may be temporarily increasing beyond the rating.

Portable generators can be a life-saver if you are careful and watch for these safety issues.



Thanks to Gail Metcalf for contributing this article to our Generators blog:

Emergency Power System