Buying a Portable Generator For Your Home

A portable generator can be a valuable tool to have on hand during a power outage or other emergency situations. These units work by turning an onboard alternator with a gas engine into electricity that you can plug extension cords into. They’re typically powered by gasoline, but propane and diesel models are also available. They’re designed to provide temporary electrical power and are typically stored in a garage or shed for use when needed.

During extended power outages at home, portable generators image of a portable generator can be used to keep refrigerators and freezers cold so perishable food doesn’t go bad, as well as to run lights, TVs and phones. They’re also handy for camping trips and RVs, where they can power a fridge, lighting and even a CPAP machine. They’re also useful on construction sites, where they can provide power to tools and equipment while workers are in the field.

Portable generators come in a variety of sizes, from small to large. Size matters because it determines what you can power. To choose the right size for you, add up the total wattage of all the appliances and devices you want to power and look for a generator with that much starting wattage or higher. It’s also a good idea to have some extra starting wattage available to ensure you can get the generator running at all, since some appliances require more power to start than others.

Because portable generators are intended for temporary use, they need to be properly maintained to work reliably when you need them. That means cleaning them off after each use, refueling with fresh gasoline and adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank before storage. You should also ground the unit, ideally by connecting it to its frame with a grounding wire. (An electrician can help with this.)

Some newer generators are designed to reduce carbon monoxide poisoning by shutting off the engine if CO levels build up in an enclosed space. They’re also rated to produce less CO in the first place than older models. These advancements can greatly increase the safety of generators and improve their overall performance.

When buying a portable generator for your home, make sure it’s paired with a transfer switch that’s been installed by an experienced electrician. Connecting a generator to your home without a transfer switch can be dangerous and could result in major damage or injury. At Toth Electric LLC, our licensed electricians have the experience necessary to install a transfer switch and safely hook up your generator. Contact us today to learn more about our services!