Pick the RIGHT Generator!

Having a generator is not only a great blessing on a cold windy snowy day when the power is out throughout the surrounding counties, but it can also be a life saving device for those persons needing electricity for medical reasons, such as the elderly, those on oxygen or dialysis machines, etc. (Did somebody mention the 'flu'?)  Be sure to pick not only a good generator, but also the right generator for your needs.

When choosing a generator, be sure to consult your electrician regarding these key areas:

1. How many Kilowatts (KW) are needed to sustain the amount of conveniences I want to keep running in my home in the event of a power outage?  Most people want heat, running water, and their refrigerator to work, plus any medical needs. Also, what is the surge power? (A well pump needs a certain amperage to run, but also has an additional surge amperage needed to start the pump)

2. What do I need to hook up my generator to my home? Sometimes it may be just a cable, or it may be an electrical box hook up, or it may be an automatic panel, etc. Central Hudson (our geographical area electrical provider) has a device called 'Generlink' for an easy hookup from generator to house.

3. Be sure that the generator is isolated from the power coming into the home. If the utility company is working on the lines, you don't want to be sending power through them, endangering their lives or safety.

4. Be sure the generator is placed outside/ in a well ventilated area, so the fumes from the engine do not enter the house (carbon monoxide is a real threat; a totally odorless killer).

5. Is this a gas guzzler?  Does it have auto-idle to help minimize my fuel usage?

6. How loud is the muffler?  Is this a better quieter exhaust, or just a cheap exhaust on a cheaper machine?

7. Can I buy parts for this machine, or is it just a Chinese knockoff ?

8. Get additional advice from your electrician to help determine wattage needs, and also the correct hookup that best suits you.

When used properly, a generator is a luxury that is priceless when your electricity is out for days (in some areas, weeks!) at a time.  Even a few hours of no electricity in sub-zero temps will make a believer out of you!

Generator features to look for
	Volt meter (gee, what's happening?) Auto idle (idles engine when not in use) Large gas tank Hour meter Low oil shutoff Electric start
	Cheaper generators may have great engines, but a lot less features!
	Large QUIET exhaust Brushless armature (more reliable)

Our Thoughts on Generators*:
We like the Robin brand (Subaru engines), and Briggs and Stratton brand because of their reliability. Often for homeowners, the minimum often would be 5KW (5 Kilo watts) machine.  The sky is the limit for the max output. It just depends upon the electrical load of the devices you wish to operate.

Be aware that a cheap generator may provide 'cheap' electricity, but it may fluctuate more than you would like, and possibly burn out the not so cheap things... like water pump motors, furnace motors, etc. (Isn't that a nice thought when it's -20° wind chill factor outside!)  

A final word about 'Service'

Buying a generator is like buying insurance, or anything else that 'protects' you in times of trouble.  When you need it, it's there.  Be sure to...

1. Buy a dependable product.
2. Buy from a respectable dealer.
3. Have your machine serviced regularly (in the Fall for this season equipment)
4. Use a fuel stabilizer to keep the fuel when the machine is not in use for weeks at a time.
5. Start the machine bi-monthly to ensure it's functionality. (For generators, it ensures the 'permanent magnets' stay that way!)
6. Have extra spark plugs on hand at all times.
7. Treat it well, and don't push the machine's limits.