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2 Major Types: Generator vs. Inverter
Generators rely on the engine
running a certain speed to create electricity using a stator and rotor.
This means if 110v/220v is needed, it runs approx. 3600 rpm.
Inverters run the engine at much
slower speeds, creating 12volts, and then electronically stepping it up
to 120v. This results in much lower fuel consumption, quieter, but also
lower wattage output (current technology: 2000 watt). These are great
for camping or tailgate parties! |
Brands and Models
It's pretty hard to buy 'too big' of a generator (OK, 100KW is too
big for most people), but it's very easy to buy one too small.
Too small a generator can not only ruin the machine, but also destroy whatever is
hooked up to it. Under voltage and under current situations get nasty,
and may even cause a fire hazard. |
Special Note:
If you have anyone in your
household that relies on electric power for health reasons, it's all the
more critical that you buy not only the proper size, but a quality unit
as well.
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Generac
Model Features |
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Inverter Series
800, 1400, 1600, 2000 watt. Quiet portable power when you need it.
-FlexPower for fuel savings
-Electronic overload protection
-LED status lights
-Low oil shutdown.
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GP Series
Affordable, no frills, but good performer.
-Covered circuit breaker outlets
-Low oil shutdown
-Low-tone
muffler
-Fuel gauge incorporated
-Hour
meter
-Ergonomic
fold-down locking handle
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XG Series
Stronger, mid line models. Everything the GP has, then more:-Generac
OHVI extended life engine
-Powerbar watt meter
-120v GFCI protection |
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XP Series
Tougher, contractor safe.-Full panel GFCI protection, OSHA,
NEC2011 compliant
-AutoIdle
-Hoist eye
-TruePower™ for clean power. |
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 Check
these:
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How many Kilowatts
(KW) are needed to to keep running my home in the event of
a power outage? (See your electrician).
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What do I need to hook up my generator to my
home? (See your electrician).
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Be sure that the generator is isolated from the
power coming into the home. (See your electrician).
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Be sure the generator is placed outside/ in a
well ventilated area, so the engine fumes do not enter the house. Carbon monoxide is a real threat; a totally odorless killer.
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Can I buy
parts for this machine, or is
it just a knockoff ?
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Run the unit on a monthly basis
if you keep fuel in it (even when fuel has stabilizer addititive).
Otherwise, run it completely empty.
Beware of
the Engine
If the name of the
engine on the generator (or log splitter, or anything else!) is a company you
have never heard of before, of if there is no brand on the engine at all,
beware. Someday you will needs parts --- where will they come from?
Most common engine
brands:
Briggs and Stratton, Generac, Honda, Kohler, Robin/Subaru, and Tecumseh.
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