Generators Buying Guide

Buying a Power Generator: Keep Your Home Powered Up

If a power outage ever occurs in your area, you don’t want to be left out in the dark. A power generator will keep your home running smoothly during even the biggest outages. For most people, a portable power generator will keep your household humming with electricity for days at a time. But what sort of fuel should you use to power your generator, and how much wattage is sufficient? Let us guide you through the world of power generators.

Power Generators and Location

When you’re buying a power generator, you’ll have to choose between a portable or a standby generator. For the most part, standbys are more than enough to keep things up and running. For those truly concerned about having enough power, an installed standby generates whopping amounts of electricity, and can outlast its portable counterpart. Whatever type of power generator you use, make sure to keep it at least 10 feet from the house, as fumes from the generator can be harmful.

Power Generator Fuel Types

There are a variety of different fuels that your generator can run on. Diesel generators are probably the most popular because they’re relatively inexpensive, they burn cleanly, and can they can be stored longer than gasoline generators. It’s also a better choice for larger portable generators and standby generators. Gas generators are fairly cheap, so they’re a good option for the budget conscious, but they may not be the best choice if you are hoping to use one during a surprise blackout, since gasoline can’t be stored for too long.

Standby generators can be run on liquid propane or natural gas. These generators are connected to utility lines and will draw fuel when needed. The choice between natural gas and propane will depend on what’s most convenient for you and your home. While there’s no need to refuel with propane or natural gas, more maintenance may be required as to keep the utility line connections in tip top shape.

Power Generator Wattage

One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make when it comes time to buy a power generator is the level of wattage you think you’ll need during any outages. The higher the wattage, the more power your home will have to run lights, electronics and other appliances. For example, a 1000-watt generator would supply power to a phone, a small TV, a fan, and two lights simultaneously. A 6000-watt generator would be capable of powering much more – your TV and DVD player, phone, refrigerator and freezer, computer, furnace and multiple lights throughout the house. How much power you need is ultimately up to you, but if you’re truly concerned about going without some of your everyday items, then a higher-wattage generator is probably necessary.