People who live in areas prone to power outages or natural disasters are well-aware of the difficulties that come with living without power. A generator can be a lifesaver when there is no electricity, but what should you look for when purchasing one? Whether it’s for your home, cabin, or business, this article will give you everything you need to know about generators and how to buy them. Read on for all the details!
Noise Level
One of the first things you should consider when buying a generator is the noise level. Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night by the sound of a generator? If that’s the case, you’ll appreciate how important it is to choose silent generators that are suitable for usage at night. Look for generators that have labels such as “quiet” or “low noise.” These generators produce lower noise levels compared to other models.
Fuel Type
Most generators use gas as their primary fuel source, although you can also find ones that run on propane or diesel. Gas-powered generators are the most common type. These generators can be easier to start but can get expensive if you have to refill them often. Diesel generators are harder to start, require more assembly, and get dirty, but they last longer than gas-powered ones do. You’ll need to decide which type of fuel is best for your needs.
Solar Generators
Besides generators that run on fuel, you can also find ones powered by the sun. Solar generators use panels as their energy source and convert solar energy into electricity. They are more expensive than gas-powered or diesel generators but they do not require any fuel to run, making them a practical choice for those who want power without worrying about costs. They are also eco-friendly and easy to maintain.
Power Capacity
How much electricity your generator can provide determines how many appliances you will be able to run at one time. If you are planning on using your generator for home use, it is best to get a model that has enough power capacity so you can use multiple appliances without overloading the system. On the other hand, if you plan to use the generator for camping or tailgating, you can get a smaller model with less power capacity. Check the power rating on the generator so you can choose one that is suitable for your needs.
Price Tag
The power capacity and the fuel type of the generator will determine its price tag. However, you can also get more energy-efficient models that do not cost as much as expensive ones. If you shop around, you should be able to find one with a great deal. Try doing your research before buying one. There are many sites that offer customers’ reviews and recommendations on generators, so you might want to visit them and read about the experiences of other people before making a purchase. Also, make sure that you get a warranty.
Generator Maintenance
It is important to keep generators clean and well-maintained so they last longer. Unplug the unit before you start cleaning it and use a hose or pressure washer to remove dirt and debris from the motor area. Use an air compressor to clean out the air vents while wiping away any dust buildup. This will ensure that the unit runs smoothly and does not break down unexpectedly. Also, make sure you run the generator every month to keep it in top condition.
Other Important Features
You should also look for certain features that will make the generator more useful and convenient. For example, look for one with an easy-to-read control panel and a flashlight function. The latter is especially important if you live in a remote area and want to use the generator during power outages. The flashlight feature will allow you to inspect the unit without having to turn on any lights. Also, check for watertight seals-these will keep moisture away from critical parts of the generator, thus making it safer and longer-lasting. You may also want to consider a generator that is easy to transport and has a low center of gravity since this will make the unit more stable during use.
The right generator will keep you safe and save your appliances from costly repairs during power outages, so it’s a great investment to make. Look for one with the right capacity, fuel type, and price tag. With the tips above, buying a new generator should be quick and easy! We hope this article has helped you with your generator shopping.