The Ultimate Guide For Choosing The Perfect Generator

If you are looking for a portable source of power but are confused, then read on. You are in the right place. A generator is the best portable energy source that meets your electricity requirements, irrespective of the place and time. You can say that a generator is a mini power station that helps you to run any electrical devices or appliances in the event of a power blackout or a power outage. And such things can happen anytime at any place. That is why investing in a generator may be an intelligent decision for you.

When you think about buying a new model, your mind gets stuck with so many questions: what type of generator should we buy? Which brand should we consider? Should we buy an inverter generator or a 3 phase model? And what should be power supplying capacity? In this article, you will get answers to every single question.

The first thing to think about while buying a generator is finding out the power consumption requirements. To determine your total consumption, you can calculate the watts of power that your appliances or devices will use. Moreover, let’s start with the types of generators. Mainly generators are of two types and they can be used for both household or business purposes. 

Types of generators

Standby generators (5,000 to 20,000 watt): As the name clarifies, a standby generator is always ready to supply power if regular electricity goes out. That means you don’t need to start it manually. It starts supplying power as the supply of regular power stops. And, if the regular power comes, it automatically returns in standby mode. 

These generators can be a little pricey, but standby mode for emergency supply makes it a value for money option. If you opt for this unit, hire a professional for a proper installation.

Portable power generators (3,000 to 8,500 watt): The mobile power generators come in smaller sizes than standby generators. These generators are available at affordable prices. The most incredible thing about these generators is that they are movable, and you can use them at your desired place.  

But here, the critical thing about portable generators is that they can be dangerous if you run them in enclosed places or inside your home as they produce carbon monoxide. You are free to run them in outdoor locations by maintaining at least 20 feet distance from your residential area or neighbors’ houses. 

Types of generators based on fuel requirements

There are several types of generators, according to classifications. Fuel based models are one of the categories of generators. Fuel-based generators use various fuel types, including diesel, petrol, gas, solar energy, and different fuel combinations. Let’s explore them.

Solar generators: As you can understand from the name, these generators require the sun to produce electricity. You can use the generated electricity to run devices that use DC power. You can also convert this solar energy to AC using inverters to run electrical devices that require AC power.

Gas generators: Gas generators utilize natural gas or propane as fuel. You can run these engines using diesel and petrol. They are less noisy as compared to diesel and petrol generators. 

Diesel generators: Diesel generators are widely used in India. These generators are more popular than other generators. Because this fuel is readily available in most places, they are also available at an affordable price and run longer.

Petrol generators: You know petrol is more expensive than diesel, but it is the finest fuel compared to diesel. You can choose as per your budget. 

Hybrid generators: Hybrid generators run on multiple fuels. You can use diesel, petrol, CNG, etc. Also, you can run these generators on solar energy during fuel shortage or in the day time.  

Calculate your energy requirements

What kind of generator you prefer depends on your uses of power. Calculating your power needs is the best way to select the right generator. And it is not a big deal. All you need to do is add the wattage of your every household appliances and devices that you want to run during a power outage or blackout. Please keep in mind the heavy appliances such as HVAC systems, refrigerators, sump pumps, etc. utilize more power when they start. So, you should consider it while calculating wattage. 

Let’s have a look at the approximate energy consumption of some appliances: 

• Computers use 60W – 300W.
• Lights use 60W – 600W.
• Fridge runs on 600W.
• Air Conditioner runs on 1800W.
• Heater requires 1500W.

Determine the extra features 

There are some extra features of the generator you can consider: 

The fuel gauge is the first thing to consider. You can locate the exact level of fuel in your generator.

Low oil shutoff is also a great feature that helps the generator shut down automatically if oil reaches a low level. In that way, a generator will be safe from potential damages.

A cold weather kit with a generator may be worth buying if you live in areas where temperature can fall below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It maintains the required temperature level.

Enclosure lighting features help in maintenance and refueling.

Check warranty period

Manufacturers provide an average warranty period for up to five years, but it varies according to model type. A commercial generator comes with two to five years of warranty. So you need to understand the warranty duration of your generator. 

Buy your generator from a reputed dealer

Always consider a trusted dealer. An authorized dealer will provide you the generator and all possible guidance. You know buying a generator is not a big deal. But in the lack of proper guidance, you can face many problems like appropriate installation, timely maintenance, etc. And a reputed dealer provides you the same. You will get professional help in the installation process and any routine service. In that way, you can make your purchase value for money.

Choosing a power generator is not an easy job. If you don’t know about generators, avoid making any purchase. Because there are many things, you need to know to buy a generator. There are several types of generators based on fuels and uses. Read this guide to learn basic stuff about generators.

Moreover, if you are still facing problems, you can ask for professional help. Good Guys Electrician is a team of skilled individuals in the concerned field. Feel free to contact us for smart electrical works.

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