Advertisement
When the power goes out, it can be a real headache. Not only does it mean no light or heat, but it also means no electricity for your appliances and electronics. This can lead to all sorts of problems, like spoiled food in the refrigerator, frozen pipes in the house, and even floods in the basement.
A generator is a great way to keep your home or office running during a power outage. But with so many different types and models on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. We’ve covered you with our guide to choosing the right generator for any situation.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Generator
A generator can help you weather a power outage, but picking the right one can be tough. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a generator.
Size
If you’re planning on using a generator, one of the most important things to consider is size. You need to make sure that the generator you choose is powerful enough to meet your needs. A generator that’s too small won’t be able to power all of your devices, and a generator that’s too large will be more expensive and difficult to transport.
When choosing a generator, it’s important to think about what you’ll use it for. If you just need it for basic tasks like powering a few lights and charging your phone, then a small generator will suffice. But if you’re planning on running multiple appliances or electronics, then you’ll need at least a 4,000-running-watt generator.
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a generator, but the size is one of the most crucial. Consider what you’ll use the generator for before making your final decision.
Fuel type
If you buy a generator for your home or business, one of the first things you need to decide is what fuel you want to use. The most common types of generators run on gasoline, diesel, or natural gas. There are also solar-powered generators, but they are much less common.
Each type of fuel has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Gasoline is the most common fuel used in generators and is generally the cheapest and easiest to find. However, it can be difficult to store large quantities of gasoline safely, and it can go bad if it is not used regularly.
- Diesel fuel is more expensive than gasoline, but it lasts longer and is less likely to go bad. It is also easier to store in large quantities. However, diesel generators can be more difficult to start in cold weather.
- Natural gas is the most expensive type of fuel for generators, but it has several advantages. Natural gas is easy to store and does not go bad over time. It is also very clean-burning and efficient.
Noise level
If you’re looking for a generator that won’t disturb your neighbors or cause a racket, you’ll want to pay attention to the noise level. Some generators can be quite loud, so choose one that won’t be too obtrusive. There are a few different ways to measure noise levels, so compare apples to apples when you’re looking at different models. You may also want to consider getting a sound-dampening enclosure for your generator if noise is a big concern for you.
Safety First
As you shop for a generator, keep in mind that some models are equipped with carbon monoxide (CO) safety technology. This is an important safety feature, as CO buildup can be deadly. Look for a model with an automatic shut-off feature that will turn the generator off if CO levels become too high.
Follow our advice and keep your generator at least 20 feet from your home. The exhaust should be directed away from your home, windows, doors, AC units, or other structures. This will help ensure that the generator doesn’t release any harmful pollutants into the air. Make sure your generator is properly maintained and cleaned. If you follow these guidelines, you can be sure that your generator will provide safe and reliable power during an emergency.