What Are The Things You Need To Consider When Buying A Portable Generator?

Posted by: KHTS Articles in News Articles August 27, 2020 - 1:15 pm 0 190 Views

People buy generators to be prepared for any power outages. They want to have a backup source of power to feel secure should they ever need it. They provide the peace of mind you have been looking for and will allow you to go on with your work in harsh conditions. A portable generator is beneficial as you can move it effortlessly from one place to another if you decide that you want power somewhere else. You should have enough information about the various types in the store and sum up what you are looking for in a generator.

The following criteria should be of help.

Power

You can size the generator by calculating the number of watts of the machines that need to be powered up in times of crisis. That’s how you will figure out how much power you need. You should check how much watts each of your electronics needs to run. Don’t forget to determine the startup power needed too because sometimes it’s much higher than the running one.

A crucial point that you should pay attention to is the amount of clean power. You need to look for a more stable form of voltage. A generator must have less than 6% of total harmonic distortion to ensure consistency. That’s how you will protect your circuits from getting damaged.

Noise Level

Noise pollution is real and it can cause various issues. For instance, anxiety and nervousness may result from living around heavy machines for a prolonged time. That’s why it’s necessary to check the decibel rating. You should be aware that when the decibel increases by ten, the noise gets boosted ten times as well. It is doable to start managing noise pollution with quiet models that are powered by a kind of fuel that provides a smoother engine. You can go for propane or solar-powered ones if you want to live in peace. Your neighbors will appreciate that as well because they can sleep well at night without suffering from your loud generator.

Fuel

You should get a big fuel tank to go for a long time without refueling. It is a headache to check that tank every time after a power outage. While we are talking about fuel, there are many types that you can choose from depending on your needs and budget.

Gasoline

One of the most common sources is gasoline. However, it may not be available at the time of the outage. It is light, so it makes the generator easier to carry around. The downsides may make you change your mind because if you are on a budget, they’re kind of expensive, and they have a short shelf life.

Solar Energy

Using the sun’s energy to power up a generator is a good idea. The best thing about solar energy is its cleanliness and safety. However, it is inconsistent because the sunlight is not the same every day. So, you have to expect that there will be a difference in the number of devices it can supply.

Diesel

Diesel is the kind of fuel used in the military. It is always available, especially when there is a crisis. Moreover, it burns away slowly and efficiently, so you don’t need to refuel every couple of days. These are great reasons to buy diesel generators. On the other hand, it increases the levels of pollution, which is why it is sometimes prohibited if it is going to be used for a lot of time.

Propane

The type that people may prefer is propane. It is eco-friendly and has a long shelf life so that it can be stored for several months. You should make sure that no lines are broken because they can be hazardous if they are leaking. It is somewhat expensive and the tanks used to store them are not aesthetically pleasing.

Additional Features

Some add-on features may be nice to have and considered. Once you hear about them, you may want to purchase a full-option generator. One of the cool options is the automatic start sensor. Once the power goes off, it will be turned on without any intervention. Having a carbon monoxide alert is crucial. It is not a luxury because your safety is a top priority. There should be an automatic shut down that takes place if the generator senses a leak. If you want to be extra cautious, you can buy one with a low CO engine to eliminate the risk of gas build-up, which can be lethal.

You should learn to do thorough research before buying any products, including generators. Gaining enough information will help you reach the best decision. It is unwise to get the first generator you come across because you will waste your money, and it may not even be enough for your needs. It can also be too much and cause unnecessary hazards. After reading the above guide, you can pick the one that fits you best.