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A generator is an excellent item to have everywhere from the jobsite to the campground. In an emergency, a generator can even help keep your family healthy and safe.
Selecting the right generator for your needs is just as important as having a generator in the first place. The following features are things to keep in mind when selecting yours.
Wattage
The amount of power a generator can create is measured in wattage.
Watts are a unit used to measure the amount of electricity an appliance
or tool uses. When you are selecting your generator, you need to
consider the amount of wattage your tool or appliance uses and whether
or not your generator is rated to power it. To see the wattage rating
of your tool or appliance, consult your owner’s manual. Once you have
an idea of what you want to power at the same time, add the wattage
required and add an additional 25% to the total for a margin of error.
This figure will give you the minimum wattage rating of the generator
you need.
REMINDER: If you try to power an item with a generator that does not
create enough wattage, you can end up damaging both the generator and
your appliance. Also, keep in mind, items using a motor (like a
refrigerator or compressor) need up to four times the wattage to start
as they do during normal operation. Some Generators have a ‘Surge
Wattage” feature that will automatically compensate for this increased
power requirement at start-up.
Voltage
Nearly every generator available will provide you with at least one
120V outlet. 120 volts is the voltage most household items such as
power tools or TVs use. However, some larger items require a 240V power
source. If you want to power a 240V item, make sure your generator has
the capability to do so.
Size:
The physical size of the generator usually correlates directly with the
wattage it can create. However, the larger the generator, the more
difficult it will be to move around. If, for example you will be using
your generator while camping, you may want to opt for a smaller, less
powerful model. It won’t be able to deliver as much power, but it will
be much easier to transport and store.
Outlets
In general, the more and more varied the outlets provided by your
generator the better. The three most common options are: 12V for use
with items equipped with a car-charger, 120V for use with most
household items and 240V for use with heavy-duty equipment.
Electric Start
Instead of pulling a rip cord over and over again, you can just push a
button to get your generator up and running. Of course, you can always
use the pull-start if the battery dies/
Mufflers
Because generators are basically a large gas-powered engine, they can
create a lot of noise. This can be a little distracting when your
generator is sitting in the middle of your campsite. High-quality
muffler systems solve this problem without compromising performance.
Spark Arrestor
A spark arrestor is a piece of equipment that prevents sparks from
escaping though the exhaust. Many states require that generators used
in forested areas (or anywhere outdoors) be equipped with a spark
arrestor. Check your local government for the laws in your area.
Circuit Breakers
Just like in your home, circuit breakers protect both the generator and
your appliance from damage when too much electricity is is being
transferred. A generator with circuit breakers built-in can help
prevent a costly and potentially dangerous situation.
Automatic Idle Control
This feature can help save gas and make your generator run longer on a
single tank of gas. As the power needs of your appliances decrease, the
engine will automatically drop the RPMs. As power needs increase, the
engine will automatically increase in speed.
Automatic Shut Down
This feature will automatically turn off your generator for any number
of reasons before any damage occurs. This can include overheating, low
oil Level and low oil pressure.
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