Portable Generators Buying Tips

Portable generators are useful when there is no access to a power suply.

A portable generator can make satisfactory living conditions at homes during elementary disasters. They are also handy tool for off-site work or camping.

Some models come with basic features. Their main role is power providing. The others include additional features that almost does not need a human intervention. Most models are somewhere in between. There are two basic types of portable generators designed for home and recreational use. 

Emergency Portable Generator (home generator) temporarily connects the household electrical system to provide enough power for essential appliances or devices (oven, refrigerator etc.). Most home portable generators supply power through extension cords, some have a power transfer system. They produce 10kW of power in average.

Recreational Portable Generator is an excellent option for use in a recreational vehicle or when camping. It can power up small devices for longer or larger appliances for shorter periods of time. They averagely produce 3-5kW of power.

The additional features such as Electric Start (starter key or button), Low Oil Shutdown (switch/sensor to turn off the low-on-oil engine), Idle Control, Hour Meter, Portability Kit (wheels and handles for moving the generator), Large Fuel Tank (five gallons or more) make the job easier.

Other things to consider when buying portable generators is fuel type.

Gas generators are easily accessible, reliable and dependable. Yet they are not that environmentally friendly. The generator simply connects to existing utility lines and draws fuel when needed.

Propane portable generators are preferable than gasoline. Propane burns without producing the toxic fumes and gases.

Diesel generators are among the most powerful on the market with strong electrical output. Yet it produces sulfur gases and toxins. They require a storage tank.

Natural Gas Generator is cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient. However, most natural gas generators are  not portable.

Portable generators should never be run indoors!