How to Choose a Portable Home Generator

Portable power generators can really come in handy during emergency situations. Before you choose one, there are a number of things you should consider. You must think about the fuel type, needed power, and the ease of use. This article will discuss the things you should consider before buying a portable home generator.

Fuel

The first thing you must consider before buying a portable home generator is the type of fuel. A generator is usually powered by diesel, gasoline, propane, or natural gas. Generators that use gasoline are the least expensive, but they last the least amount of time and require the most maintenance. Also, gasoline can't be stored for long periods of time unless it is treated with stabilizers. Diesel is one of the best fuels for portable power generators because it is more fuel efficient. Propane and natural gas burn cleaner, but may not be easily available in some areas.

Power

The next thing to consider is the amount of power you will need. Before buying a generator, you should calculate the total wattage of the appliances and electronics you plan to use. If you want enough power for lights, refrigerators, and televisions, portable power generators of 5KW will power them for seven to eight hours. You should avoid putting loads on the portable home generator that exceed the manufacturer's rating. The ideal generator for most homes is between 5KW and 7KW.

Ease of Use

The final thing that you must think about before purchasing a portable home generator is the ease of use. Some portable power generators come with an electric start while others use a pull start. The electric types are usually much easier to start. Gas generators that employ a pull start can sometimes be hard to start. If your generator uses diesel, you should be aware that they can be extremely difficult to start during cold weather. As mentioned earlier, gas generators require frequent maintenance. All portable power generators should be operated twice a year for about an hour, even if you don't need the power.