Portable Power Generators

Portable power generators can make it more comfortable for you and your family when you find yourself without electricity, especially when you live in an area where power failures are frequent. You might find it necessary to have power at a location that does not have electricity, such as a jobsite, a camping site, or an outdoor event.



When your power goes out and you find yourself sitting in the dark, you realize how much you depend on all of these electrical conveniences. Just like insurance portable power generators give you peace of mind knowing that when the power goes out you will be covered.

Here are some of the reasons why you might want to have a portable generator.

At home, portable gas generators can be used to:

• Run a refrigerator to keep perishables from spoiling.
  
  
• Provide lighting.
  
  
• Charge a battery.
  
  
• Run an electric stove for cooking.
  
  
• Power your appliances.
  
  
• Power a critical life support system, such as respirators.
  
  
• Boil water to sterilize for drinking.
  
  
• Heat water for bathing.
  
  
• Power electrical heating units.

At work, portable gas generators can be used to:

• Keep computers and office equipment running.
  
  
• Keep production lines moving.
  
  
• Keep refrigeration units running.
  
  
• Lighting the facility.

How to get the right size portable electric generator for your specific power needs.

First you need to decide which electrical devices you want to run in the event of a power outage. You will need to determine the start up and running requirements for these electrical appliances that you want to run. You can usually find the wattage requirements listed on the appliance label or in the user manual.

The start up wattage of an appliance will generally be higher than the wattage required to operate it. It's always a good idea to have a ten percent higher capacity than you think you need due to variances in the operating load.

When choosing the right size portable power generators for your appliance needs, your cost, space and weight requirements will be reduced, while maintaining enough power to meet your electrical needs.

There are some things to consider before deciding which portable generator you want to purchase.

Gasoline powered generators:

• Are less expensive.
  
  
• Require more maintenance.
  
  
• Have a shorter life span.

Diesel powered generators:

• Are more expensive than a gasoline generator.
  
  
• Are more fuel efficient.
  
  
• Require less maintenance.
  
  
• Have a longer life span.

Natural gas and propane powered generators:

• Are more expensive than portable gas generators.
  
  
• Burn cleaner.
  
  
• Fuel is less expensive.
  
  
• Require less maintenance.
  
  
• Have a longer life span.

How do you safely operate electric portable generators?

It is recommended to read and follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It's a good idea to observe the maintenance and operating procedures for a safe and trouble-free operation. The generator should not exceed the manufactures rating for loads. Do not run more than the recommended amount of devices at the same time because the electric portable generators circuits can trip causing a loss of power.

To keep your generator in good working condition, run the generator at least twice a year at full load. Never use the generator in a garage or basement. A generator will emit carbon monoxide and it is a dangerous health hazard, so it is recommended to keep the generator outside at all times, away from windows and vents.

Use heavy duty extension cords that are recommended by the manufacturer. Never refuel a generator when it is in operation, which could cause a fire. Keep the generator dry and do not run it in wet conditions.

Where is the best place to buy portable power generators?

A good place to buy a portable power generator is at Northern Tool which gives you a broader selection and better pricing.


For more information on portable generators click on the manufacturers below:

Powermate
Honda
Kipor
Mitsubishi
Onan
Yamaha
Briggs and Stratton
Subaru
Snapper

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