Choosing the Right Emergency Portable Generator: A Comprehensive Guide
Power outages can be more than just an inconvenience; they can disrupt your life and even pose safety risks. Having a reliable emergency portable generator is crucial for keeping essential appliances running and maintaining a sense of normalcy during unexpected blackouts. This guide will walk you through the key considerations for selecting the best emergency portable generator for your needs.
Why You Need an Emergency Portable Generator
- Essential Power: Keep refrigerators running to prevent food spoilage, power medical devices, and maintain lighting.
- Home Comfort: Run your HVAC system to maintain a comfortable temperature during extreme weather conditions.
- Communication: Stay connected by charging phones and other devices.
- Safety and Security: Power security systems and outdoor lighting for added safety.
Types of Emergency Portable Generators
Emergency portable generators come in various types, each with its own set of advantages:
- Conventional Portable Generators: These are typically more affordable and provide a higher power output. They are suitable for powering multiple appliances simultaneously.
- Inverter Generators: Known for their quiet operation and clean power output, making them ideal for sensitive electronics. They are generally more fuel-efficient.
- Dual-Fuel Generators: Offer the flexibility of running on either gasoline or propane, providing added convenience and fuel options.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
Before investing in an electric generator, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the right one for your specific requirements:
- Power Needs (Wattage): Calculate the total wattage required to run all the essential appliances and devices you want to power during an outage. Use a wattage calculator to simplify this process.
- Fuel Type: Decide whether you prefer gasoline, propane, or a dual-fuel option based on availability, cost, and storage considerations.
- Runtime: Check the generator's runtime at different load levels to ensure it can provide power for an extended period, if needed.
- Starting Method: Electric start generators offer convenient push-button starting, while recoil start models require manual pulling.
- Safety Features: Look for generators with carbon monoxide (CO) sensors and automatic shut-off features for safety, such as CO Shield® and COsense®.
- Portability: Consider the generator's weight and whether it has wheels and handles for easy maneuverability.
Top Brands in Emergency Portable Generators
Several reputable brands offer high-quality portable generators designed for emergency use:
- Generac: Known for reliability and innovation, offering a wide range of models with features like COsense®.
- Briggs & Stratton: A trusted brand with a long history of producing durable and efficient power equipment.
- Champion: Offers affordable and reliable generators with features like CO Shield®.
- Westinghouse: Known for powerful generators with dual-fuel options and remote start capabilities.
- Honda: Renowned for quiet and fuel-efficient inverter generators, ideal for sensitive electronics.
Expert Recommendations
To help you make an informed decision, here are a few expert-recommended large portable emergency generators:
- Westinghouse WGen14500DFc: A robust dual-fuel generator with a high power output, electric start, and wireless remote start.
- Generac GP15500EFI: A powerful EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) generator with COsense® technology for added safety.
- Champion 201160: A reliable option with electric start and CO Shield® for enhanced safety.
Where to Buy
You can find a wide selection of power generators from reputable dealers such as Electric Generators Direct, which specializes in power generators and offers expert advice to help you choose the right model for your needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right emergency portable generator requires careful consideration of your power needs, fuel preferences, and desired features. By following this guide, you can confidently select a generator that provides reliable backup power and peace of mind during power outages. Don't wait until the next blackout – prepare now and ensure your home is ready with the right generator.
