If you’re looking to buy a portable generator, there are a few things you should know. Prices vary significantly, but most range from about $300 to $1000. Three of the five we looked at cost less than $800. It’s tempting to buy the cheapest generator you can find, but remember that you’re compromising reliability and quality for price. Portable generators are also cheaper than permanent generators, which can cost up to $4,000. How much wattage do you need? The total wattage needed to power your house depends on the number of appliances and fixtures inside it. You can calculate this with a starting wattage.
Inverter generators
Inverter generators have several advantages over conventional portable generators. They generate clean, consistent power, and use a DC capacitor to smooth the current produced. In addition to being more energy-efficient, they also produce power that is closer to the quality of electricity supplied by the local electric company. That’s important because most electronic devices are sensitive to the quality of electricity. Portable generators with inverters are a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable power source.
Gas-powered generators
Unlike the electric-powered ones, gas-powered portable generators use gas. This fuel is readily available in most areas, including mountain regions. Although gas generators run better in thin air, 87-octane gasoline is standard for most areas. In high-elevation areas, 85-octane gasoline is recommended. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of death in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. This gas can be deadly for up to five minutes.
Solar-powered generators
There are several benefits of solar-powered portable generators. Solar panels transform sunlight into electricity. The solar input controls the amount of time the generator can be recharged. Portable solar panels are convenient and easy to manipulate. Their smaller size also means that they require less solar input. Portable solar generators are ideal for camping and other situations where power is not a priority. Regardless of the reason you are considering buying a solar-powered generator, here are some benefits to keep in mind.
Manual transfer switches
There are two types of transfer switches: automatic and manual. Automatic transfer switches automatically switch power on and off when one source fails. These switches are placed near a backup power generator to provide electrical power while the main source is still functioning. These devices can be expensive, however, and are best suited for large properties in areas prone to blackouts. A manual transfer switch is an economical alternative for small homes and businesses. In both cases, a circuit breaker must be installed near the portable generator to protect it from overheating and causing a fire.
CO-detection
A CO-detection portable generator has two important safety features: a sensor that senses the presence of carbon monoxide and an auto-shutoff system that shuts down the engine if it detects carbon monoxide. When CO levels reach a certain level, a red LED turns on to warn the user that a CO-detected portable generator is operating. A portable generator should always be used in an open space to prevent the spread of CO, and its use should be avoided where children may be around.
Bluetooth connectivity
In an effort to provide increased convenience and control over their generators, Briggs & Stratton Corporation has introduced the first Bluetooth-enabled portable device. The 8,000-watt Elite Series portable generator features StatStation Wireless technology, which can be accessed remotely using a free app that can be downloaded from either the Apple App Store or Google Play store. The app is compatible with iPhone 6 and above running iOS 9, as well as the Samsung Galaxy S6 or above running Android 6.0.1.
Price
The average price of a portable generator ranges from $200 to $6,000, and it depends on several factors, including its power capacity and fuel source. While gasoline-powered portable generators are the most common, they can also run on liquid propane, natural gas, or diesel fuel. The fuel source also affects the price of a portable generator. Aside from gasoline, other types of fuel can be used, such as kerosene.
