Buying a Home Generator

A generator is used as a backup power system to supply electricity if there is a power outage. The main working principle of a home generator is similar to commercial generators. Both generators have a small engine that generates mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is converted into electric energy. The electrical energy can be used for light fixtures and light bulbs along with using home appliances like heaters, air conditioners, refrigerators, computers, and more.

There are many home generators on the market today so it is best if you compare different ones before making your final decision. To help make your decision there are several things that you need to consider. The first thing is to determine what your budget is and what you might need the generator to run should you have a power shortage. There are two types of generators:

• Stationary/standby—this is the generator that you would choose if you have a prolonged power outage because it runs longer
• Portable—this one is easy to transport but will only run for a short period of time

Another thing that you need to consider is the amount of fuel you will need to run your generator. Either type of generator runs on natural gas, propane, gasoline, or diesel fuel. Generators that run on diesel fuel or gasoline have a short running time but if you want it to run longer, it will need to be refilled as the fuel used becomes lower. There is more flexibility if you choose a generator that uses either propane or natural gas. Knowing what fuel is available in your area will help in your decision. It is cheaper to run a home generator using natural gas. The drawbacks are the unit emits harmful gasses and has a loud noise when it is in operation. If your generator runs on natural gas, make sure that it is installed in a large room that is well ventilated.

Other factors that should weigh in your decision as to which home generator to purchase include:

• Wattage (size)
• Model type
• Warranty period and what the warranty covers
• How much it costs
• What fuel it uses
• If it has an automatic power supply

To make sure that you are getting the correct size calculate the power requirements of all the appliances and other items that you will need to supply electric too in case of a power outage and then compare it to the generator’s wattage. The wattage should match the requirements of the total electric usage you will need.