Electric generators are used to supply power to homes, commercial and industrial establishments when there is a disruption of power. It is also used in places where there is no supply of electricity. Electric generators come in a wide variety of models, size, and prices. Choosing the right electric generator depends upon an individual’s need. A homeowner first has to identify the appliances to be powered by the generator. The total wattage required to run these appliances has to be added up, including the starting wattage requirement of some of the appliances such as refrigerators. This makes up the total wattage power required from the generator. Lights and other smaller appliances require 120 volts of power, whereas appliances like electric stoves and driers require 240 volts. It should be checked whether the generators have the necessary voltage ratings.
There are few features that have to be considered before buying an electric generator. First, make sure to check to see if the engine has an overhead valve. An engine that comes with an overhead valve start easily, last longer and is less noisy. Second, check whether the engine has a cast iron sleeve in the cylinder to protect the engine from early wear and tear. In addition to this, electric generators come loaded with many convenient features such as electric start, power switch to alternate between 120 and 240 volts, low oil shut down that shuts the engines when the fuel in the tank reaches a certain level and an hour meter to show the duration of time the engine has been running. Electric generators are generally powered by gasoline, diesel, propane or natural gas. There are inexpensive but have a short life. Diesel generators are fuel-efficient, have a longer life but are relatively expensive. Propane and natural gas generators are best suited where fuel is ready available.
Certain precautions have to be taken while using generators. They should always be located outside the house to prevent exposure to harmful carbon monoxide. They should always be kept dry and should not be touched with wet hands to avoid getting electrocuted. Generators should not be refueled when in operation — spilling of fuel on hot components may cause fire. It is always wise to invest in a good quality generator. Electric generators can be purchased at any appliances or hardware store. Industrial and commercial electric generators are available with their respective dealers. All brands and models of generators are listed on the web sites.
Related Articles of Interest :
-
Portable Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Portable generators are used in homes and in places where there is no power or the need for power is minimum. Portable generators are generally smaller and are designed to use for a few. A portable generator of 5KW has enough power to keep lights,...
-
RV Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
The introduction of RV generators has made it possible for people who use smaller and towable RVs to enjoy the modern amenities of life. Modern RVs have installed generators behind the drivers’ seat, which provide electrical power. They draw their fuel supply from the engine’s...
-
Emergency Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
The disruption of power for substantial lengths of time can occur at any time due to hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, snowfall and other natural calamities. Having emergency backup power in such situations is not only essential for hospitals and commercial establishments but also in homes to...
-
Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Generators are used for the generation of electric power. There are basically two types of generators: standby generators and portable generators. Generators ensure that most of the essential appliances can be run whenever there is a power outage. Standby generators provide backup power in homes...
-
Home Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Home generators are designed to provide electricity in times of power shortages or failures for a short duration of time. Home generators not only light up the house in case of power outages but also, depending on their capacity, provide power to run appliances like...
-
Gas Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
A wide variety of fuels are used to power generators. The most common are gasoline, diesel, propane and natural gas. With such a wide array of options, the house owner’s choice of fuel and the right type of generator will depend upon factors such as...
-
Diesel Generators
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Fuels such as gasoline, diesel, propane or natural gas basically power home generators. Some models also have multi fuel capabilities and run on gasoline, propane or natural gas. The choice of the fuel will depend on the availability of the fuel in times of emergency,...
-
Commercial Appliances
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
For businesses, especially those in manufacturing, the key to success is to be able to produce products with the least cost and to produce them efficiently so that they can meet their delivery dates. In making sure that products are made with the least cost,...
-
The Benefits of Electric Indoor Wheelchairs
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Electric indoor wheelchairs are a boon to wheelchair users. They add power, speed and comfort to the experience. Indoor electric wheelchairs are for people who have absolutely no mobility, even at home. However, indoor wheelchairs cannot be used outdoors, except in the garden or lawn....
-
The Benefits of Electric Snow Blowers
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Electric snow blowers are just the thing to buy if you live in a region that never gets more than 6 to 10 inches per snowfall. Electric snow blowers don’t rely on gasoline for power. Rather, they utilize a 6- to 12-amp cord, which you...