When it comes to buying a generator, there are many things you will want to consider to help you know if you are getting a reliable power source that will meet your needs. Whether you’re preparing for an emergency, planning to power outdoor activities, or keep essential appliances running during a power outage, a generator is a valuable investment. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed choice.
1. Types of Generators
- Portable Generators: These are compact and mobile, making them perfect for camping, tailgating, and smaller home appliances. However, they may not provide enough power for an entire home.
- Inverter Generators: These are typically quieter and provide cleaner power, ideal for sensitive electronics. They are also fuel-efficient but often more expensive than traditional portable models.
- Standby Generators: These are permanently installed and automatically activated during power outages. They offer high wattage and can power an entire home, but they are more costly and require professional installation.
2. Power Output (Wattage)
Each appliance has its own power needs, so you’ll want to ensure your generator can handle them. Generators typically have two power ratings: running watts (continuous power) and starting watts (power needed to start an appliance). Here’s a quick way to estimate:
- Calculate the total wattage of your essential appliances.
- Choose a generator with a slightly higher running wattage than your calculated total for safety.
Tip: Make a list of the items you intend to power and add up their wattage. For whole-house power, standby generators rated from 7,000 to 20,000 watts may be ideal.
3. Fuel Type and Efficiency
- Gasoline: The most common fuel source, readily available but can be challenging to store long-term.
- Diesel: Known for efficiency and durability, particularly in larger models. Diesel generators often require less maintenance but are generally more expensive.
- Propane: Offers cleaner burning and easy storage. Propane generators can run continuously for long periods, which is beneficial for extended outages.
- Dual-Fuel Generators: These provide flexibility by allowing you to use two fuel types (typically gasoline and propane).
Consider fuel efficiency, especially if you plan to use the generator frequently or for extended periods. Check the generator’s runtime—the amount of time it can run on a full tank at 50% load—to estimate how long your power will last on a specific fuel type.
4. Noise Levels
Noise is a critical factor, especially if you’ll be using the generator around your home or in public settings. Inverter generators tend to be quieter, with noise levels around 50-60 dB, similar to a conversation or light rain. Larger models, especially standby generators, can be noisier, so check the manufacturer’s decibel (dB) ratings if noise is a concern.
5. Size and Portability
For portable generators, consider weight, handle design, and wheel kits to facilitate movement. If your generator will stay in one place, like a standby model, space availability and installation needs are more important.
6. Safety Features
Safety features are essential for reliable operation and peace of mind. Look for:
- Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR): Helps maintain stable power output, preventing damage to sensitive devices.
- Low-Oil Shutoff: Automatically shuts down the generator when oil levels are low, protecting the engine from damage.
- Overload Protection: Prevents damage by shutting off the generator if the load exceeds its capacity.
- Carbon Monoxide Detection: Some newer models include sensors that shut off the generator if CO levels become dangerously high.
7. Automatic Start and Transfer Switch Options
A generator with an automatic start feature will activate as soon as it detects a power outage. For standby generators, automatic transfer switches are often used, allowing a seamless switch to generator power without manual intervention. This is particularly beneficial if you want uninterrupted power during an outage.
8. Maintenance and Durability
Consider the generator’s maintenance needs and ease of access to replacement parts. Generators that run frequently may require more regular oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and spark plug checks. Opt for a reputable brand known for durability and warranty support to ensure that you have access to repair services and parts over the generator’s lifespan.
9. Budget
Generator prices vary widely, from a few hundred dollars for small, portable models to several thousand for whole-house standby units. Your budget should reflect your power needs, frequency of use, and additional features. Remember, higher-priced models often come with better warranties, longer runtimes, and additional safety features.
10. Warranty and Customer Support
Choose a generator from a reputable brand that offers a comprehensive warranty and good customer support. A quality warranty can save you from costly repairs and provide access to service technicians. Read reviews to get insights into a brand’s customer service quality and overall reliability.
Buying a generator is about matching the right features with your specific needs. Think about how and where you’ll use it, what you need to power, and what your budget allows. With a clear understanding of your requirements and these key considerations, you can confidently select a generator that provides safe, reliable power when you need it most. If you are still having trouble trying to figure out which generator is best for you, reach out to our Idaho Falls Electricians here at Arco Electric. We are happy to help you pick one that works the best for your needs, get it up and running, and help you to know how to use it properly.
