These days shopping around for electrical power generators is
like shopping around for shoes as the number of options are quite
diverse and it is not impossible for analysis paralysis to kick in when
you start going through the specs sheets. In this article, I try to
narrow it down a bit by providing five tips that pertain to the more
important aspects of choosing for a power generator.
Tip #1
If the generator is intended for home use, go for the 7000 to 10,000 watts models. This is enough to run multiple essential appliances like the refrigerator, freezer, furnace, lights, computers, televisions and then some. It may not be enough to run air conditioning but that is really not essential need. You could try and get the higher wattage models but that will come at a premium.
Tip #2
If you wish to save on maintenance costs, go for diesel powered generators instead of gas powered generators. Diesel is actual low grade oil and they also protect the engine aside from fuel them. They also burn more efficiently and produces more output for the buck. The end result is that diesel incurs lower costs because you do not have to undergo maintenance all the time. Gas powered generators may need frequent maintenance and are not as stable as diesel when it comes to extended storage.
Tip #3
Go for the models packed with safety and convenient features. Look for the electrical (automatic start) and the low oil automatic shut down. An hourly timer will come in handy especially in telling you when to have your machine go for preventive maintenance. A large fuel tank will also be a good feature to have as it will mean longer operation hours.
Tip #4
Go for the silent types. If you hate noise then it would not be hard to hate generators as a lot of the models, especially the generic ones, would be quite the noise makers. After all, generators are usually built with internal combustion engines. Going for specially designed models that include sound damping features will go a long way in keeping everyone headache free. You can also achieve this further by installing the generator some distance from your house (this also keeps you away from the carbon monoxide fumes).
Tip #5
Go for the branded models. Sure they are are pricier but the support and reliability that comes along with them will come in handy. Brands like Honda and Powermax are pretty reliable brands and you would not go wrong with them as long as you evaluate your needs correctly. Sound technical support is also a benefit that comes with buying branded generators because you are paying for it.
Choosing an electrical power generator for backup residential power will be a bit of a chore if you do not do your homework first. The above tips should help you get started and narrow down your options significantly.
By Kristin Lee
Tip #1
If the generator is intended for home use, go for the 7000 to 10,000 watts models. This is enough to run multiple essential appliances like the refrigerator, freezer, furnace, lights, computers, televisions and then some. It may not be enough to run air conditioning but that is really not essential need. You could try and get the higher wattage models but that will come at a premium.
Tip #2
If you wish to save on maintenance costs, go for diesel powered generators instead of gas powered generators. Diesel is actual low grade oil and they also protect the engine aside from fuel them. They also burn more efficiently and produces more output for the buck. The end result is that diesel incurs lower costs because you do not have to undergo maintenance all the time. Gas powered generators may need frequent maintenance and are not as stable as diesel when it comes to extended storage.
Tip #3
Go for the models packed with safety and convenient features. Look for the electrical (automatic start) and the low oil automatic shut down. An hourly timer will come in handy especially in telling you when to have your machine go for preventive maintenance. A large fuel tank will also be a good feature to have as it will mean longer operation hours.
Tip #4
Go for the silent types. If you hate noise then it would not be hard to hate generators as a lot of the models, especially the generic ones, would be quite the noise makers. After all, generators are usually built with internal combustion engines. Going for specially designed models that include sound damping features will go a long way in keeping everyone headache free. You can also achieve this further by installing the generator some distance from your house (this also keeps you away from the carbon monoxide fumes).
Tip #5
Go for the branded models. Sure they are are pricier but the support and reliability that comes along with them will come in handy. Brands like Honda and Powermax are pretty reliable brands and you would not go wrong with them as long as you evaluate your needs correctly. Sound technical support is also a benefit that comes with buying branded generators because you are paying for it.
Choosing an electrical power generator for backup residential power will be a bit of a chore if you do not do your homework first. The above tips should help you get started and narrow down your options significantly.
By Kristin Lee
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