You need to power up when there is a power outage. Blackouts are dreadful, and they keep households and offices from running smoothly. A powerful generator is all you need to keep your computers running, mobile phones charging, kitchen cooking and home or office cool or warm. In short, generators can restore the normal function when the electricity is out. Whether it is a storm or a sudden shortage of power, you can ensure the regular workflow with the right choice of a generator for your home and office.
To create a comprehensive generator comparison, you need to be able to leverage their key specifications. Here are the few traits you should primarily compare to find the perfect generator for your need –
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What are your power priorities?
The measure of a generator’s output is in watts. The power of the generator decides how many appliances and lights the user can operate at the same time. Some of the standard essentials follow these rough numbers –
Refrigerator: 600 watts
Sump pump: 750 to 1500 watts
Portable heater: 1500 watts
Window air conditioner: 1000 watts
Lights: 60 to 600 watts
Computers: 60 to 300 watts
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The type of generator
There are three types for you to check out – home standby generators, inverters, and portable generators. The standby generators use propane or gasoline. They are costlier than the inverters and portable models. Inverters are quieter, more efficient and produce less exhaust as compared to the other two. Portable generators cost less than standby generators. They run on gasoline as well, but you can move them around as per your need. However, the portable generators produce significant levels of carbon monoxide.
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The standby switch
You will require a standby switch for safely connecting the home generator to the circuit panel through one cable. When comparing different generator models, do not skip the safety standby switch feature. Omitting it can endanger utility workers, and it can put your home appliances at danger.
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Other important features for comparison
Here are a few of the different characteristics of the generators you should include in your comparison chart –
Fuel gauge
It allows the user to check how much fuel remains in the tank during long hours of blackouts.
Alternative fuels
Propane and gasoline are the conventional fuel sources, but some of them can accommodate natural-gas lines. Some are amicable to conversion with small kits.
Electric start
Electric start is a fuss-free alternative to the pull-starting engine models. They allow quick starts. Most stationary models have auto-start options.
Auto-start
It is a fundamental trait if you want to enjoy the smooth running of appliances. When the power goes off, the generator switches on without a second’s delay.
Low-oil shutoff
It is a safety feature that is important for the integrity of the engine and the electrical appliances connecting to it. It should be a standard feature on stationary generators.
While comparing several leading generator models, keeping these simple factors and traits in mind can help you find the right match for your home and offices.
