If you have ever experienced a power outage at your home or are interested in powering electrical devices where there is no available electricity, then you need a generator. Generators turn mechanical energy into electrical energy, and they can power anything from phones to entire homes. The question is, how do you choose the right generator for your needs?
At Arnold Electric Services, we’ve got all the specs on types, wattage and fuel sources so that your generator can provide the energy you need. Read on to learn how to invest in the best generator for your home or needs.
What Are The Types Of Generators?
The first thing you need to decide is what exactly you are trying to power with your generator, and that will tell you which of the three main kinds of generators you should look into.
- Inverter Generators – These machines are perfect solutions for camping, boating and outdoor activities where you need some electrical support. They run much quieter than the other types which can help when you have camping neighbors and provide enough juice to power lights, fans, phones and radios.
- Portable Generators – This type of generator is used when you need a little more power. While they are typically loud machines used on worksites and construction areas to power larger tools, they can be found in quieter models.
- Whole-House Generators – As the name suggests, this generator is designed to handle bigger loads like your home’s appliances and HVAC. If you’re concerned about your power going out due to bad weather or natural disasters, this is the prime option to keep your home comfortable.
What Does Wattage Have To Do With Generators?
The amount of wattage that each generator is labeled with references the amount of power that the machine can supply without being overloaded by demand. This means that you need to know ahead of time the range of electrical products you are planning to plug into your generator to be able to know the wattage you expect the unit to cover safely.
For example, a 3500-watt inverter generator can only supply that much wattage at one time. Some common items powered by inverter generators and their required wattages are:
- Fan: 100
- Lights: 250
- Television: 250
- Hot Plate: 1200
- Crock Pot: 1200
- Space Heater: 1500
You’d have to be aware that plugging all of these products into the generator at one time will trip the machine. For a generator this size, you’ll need to trade off products, or else choose a higher wattage generator in the first place if you want to use all of these items at one time.
What Kinds Of Fuel Power Generators?
Another important consideration to think about is the type of fuel source your generator will run on. If you choose a generator to buy but can’t find or purchase the right amount of fuel, you’ll have a useless machine on your hands. You need to make sure your preferred fuel source is readily available as well as affordable for your budget. Some of the most common fuel types for generators are:
- Gasoline
- Diesel
- Natural Gas
- Propane
- Bi-Fuel
- Solar Powered
- Battery Powered
Interested In A Generator?
If you still have questions about generators and the appropriate choice to power your home, count on our team at Arnold Electric Services. Our experienced team of electricians are here to support you and make sure you have all the power you need! Contact us today and speak with a friendly representative!
