!: Portable Generators - What You Should Know Before You Buy

Portable generators come in a wide variety of sizes to fit about every need. They can be small hand carried models to run radios and other small items when camping or doing other outdoor activities. Portable generators also come in models big enough to use for backup power in your home that will run most everything essential.

The specific needs you have is the first thing to consider when choosing a generator. Are you just wanting to run one or two small tools for a short period of time, or are you using it on a job site all day? If you just need some power for short periods of time with limited use a portable generator with a three or four horse power engine should fit your needs just fine. This size engine will generally provide 1,400 to 1,800 watts of power. There are generators that come in models with engines as large as twenty five horse power and provide 13,500 watts of power. This size generator is what you will need if you plan to use the portable generator for long periods of time, or need to have a lot of power at any one time. Generators this big are generally used by construction companies and other people that run a lot of tools. They are also good for a whole house backup power. However if you plan to use a portable generator for this purpose you will need to also look into transfer switches. The transfer switch hooks into your power panel then plugs to your generator to supply power to the house. Smaller units can be used for this purpose, the size you need will depend on how many items you want to run at a time.

Portable generators can come in many different brands, however most use common engines which are the main feature of the generator. The most common engines are made by Honda, Tecumseh, ProForce, and Suburu. Some people have a personal preference in manufacturers, but you should be pleased with the performance you receive from any of these.

Some other features you may need and want to look into before choosing a specific generator are electrical outlets they have and generator safety items. Generators can have 120 volt and 240 volt plugs on them. Some even offer GFI plugs for additional safety. One of the key features you want to look for in a generator if you plan to use it for extended periods of time is a low oil shut off. This will shut down the generator automatically if the oil level should become too low and potentially blow the engine.

One last thing you want to consider when purchasing larger portable generators is a wheel kit. Many of the larger models will come with one standard. The wheel kit will have two wheels and a handle on the generator to make it easier to move. There are lots of options in portable generators be sure to figure out exactly what you need from your generator then shop all your options.