What is a generator?
A generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Generators use an external source of energy which can be gasoline, diesel, and natural gas. In this article, we will discuss the 3 main types of generators, portable, standby, and inverter type generator.
Whether you need an electric source for a job site or to your home during a blackout or for off-grid power, a generator is an ideal investment to ensure power is available. Many generators have different types of fuel supply.
1.Portable generator
Portable generators are widely used and favorable for their portable feature. They can be used to power up a house, job site, and more. They can also have a variety of outputs. Some have 120-volt receptacles, a 12-volt power supply, and even USB charging ports to charge your phone for example.
A common fuel supply for portable generators is gasoline. If you do end up storing gasoline for an extended period of time in case of emergency use, using a fuel stabilizer is advisable. This will prevent your gasoline from degrading.
Most households will end up using 10-25 gallons of gasoline to power their portable generator for 1-2 days depending on the use and efficiency. Propane is another option as fuel for portable generators. Most households will use 4-8 20 pound propane tanks in 1-2 days.
Some portable generators have natural gas hookups; this is a great feature for homeowners since natural gas can be supplied by a utility company.
Variations?
Portable generators come in three different variations. The open frame, inverter, and digital hybrid. The open frame is louder than the inverter generator because of its open-frame design. The open frame generator generally has the best bang for your buck when we look at wattage for the purchase price.
An inverter generator is quieter than an open frame generator. Another advantage of the inverter generator is its variable engine speed depending on the wattage demand.
This function will allow it to run more fuel-efficient compared to an open frame generator, however, the inverter generator will generally have a higher purchase price. The digital hybrid has an open frame generator design but has the functions of an inverter generator.
2. Standby generator
Standby generators are permanently fixed. These types of generators can power commercial / industrial buildings but also can power homes too. Most modern standby generators have the option to be fueled by either propane, natural gas, and diesel.
The majority of standby generators for houses are fueled by natural gas. This is because utility companies run natural gas lines to houses and will run quiet and burn clean. You also do not have to store tanks for natural gas as you would for propane, although propane is the more energy-efficient choice.
3. Inverter generator
Inverter generators use a mechanical alternator to generate AC power, then invert it to DC power. It will then digitally convert to a cleaner true sine wave of AC power. Another feature of an inverter generator is its capability to use idle control and engine variable speed.
This technology makes an inverter generator more fuel-efficient than an open frame generator. Inverters are quieter and lighter than an open frame generator. Inverter generators are great for camping, tailgating, and more.
Considerations
When choosing a generator there are a few factors you must consider. Size, fuel type, and wattage output. Get the sum of wattage on all the appliances you would use and add 20%, this will give you a general idea of how much wattage you need from a generator.
You also might want to consider certain features such as electric start, outlets, runtime, single or dual fuel, and if it has wheels or not. You can check out some generators here.