Continued power outages in the US over the past couple of years has seen an enormous increase in the number of people who have purchased an electric generator to help them through these difficult times. The electric generator is now very much at home in the suburban garage, whereas it was once only found out on the homestead or farm or in the back of the RV. Times have changed and more and more people are finding that the electric generator brings them security, convenience and much peace of mind.
There are so many makes and models of the electric generator it can be hard to know where to start. And the many conflicting ideas about which electric generator to purchase is downright confusing. It is hard to tell you what is the best electric generator to buy, but we can give you some things to think about when looking for one. Make sure you buy an electric generator that will supply your needs, whether it is for standby power at home or as a primary energy source. Don’t be fooled by the advertising promises, differing price ranges or pretty colours. Make sure you are confident your electric generator can do what you bought it for.
We have put together s set of key criteria to consider when in the market to buy an electric generator.
1. How much power do you want?
Where to start? Make a list of what you require an electric generator to do. How may watts do you need to run your home if the power blacks out? Check your owner manuals or the labels to find the watts of all the appliances you want to run. Now add them up and add 20% to allow for start up engines on things like an air-conditioner or a freezer. Now you know the minimal size you need. It can be smart to add an extra 25% to allow yourself room to grow. So just don’t go shopping and buy the first one you see. Odds on are you will get it home and you have bought the wrong size for the job. Whether too small or too big, this is a sure way to buy trouble.
2. What fuel type is the best?
There are many gasoline electric generators that offer excellent warranties. They are designed for short and sporadic use and suit recreational and emergency use, and back up power for small businesses. They do not perform well under pressure for endless hours at a time. If this is what you need from a generator then a diesel could be a better choice. If you need a primary power source then choose the hardworking, reliable, cost efficient diesel electric engine.
3. What brand should I buy?
Stick to the recognized brands as you can easily access backup service and spare parts. Some of the names worth looking at include Straton, Briggs, Honda and Yamaha. They all manufacture many types of electric generator.
4. Should it have emergency shutdown?
It is good to buy an electric generator that has a warning system when the oil level drops to a critical low. The unit will automatically shutdown as well to prevent major damage to your electric generator. This is a feature you should ensure comes standard on the generator you buy.
America’s incidence of power blackouts has grown over the years. It has become more commonplace for people to buy an electric generator to get through those times without power. No matter how long the mains power is out, it is distressing for all those affected. Now days you will find an electric generator wherever you go. They have popped up all over the suburbs where once they were only thought of out on remote properties or as backup power for industry. Here they are today, helping to provide the community with a secure power supply.
