A generator can help you ride out a power outage or keep the energy flowing during a camping trip.

Generators are essential during natural disasters like snowstorms they can keep lights, appliances, and heating running. Smaller generators can help provide modern comforts when camping or supply power to job sites without electrical access.

What Kind of Generator Do I Need?

There are three main types of generators:

• Home standby generators, also known as whole house generators, are designed to supply power to run your household appliances and HVAC systems.
• Portable generators are ideal for job sites, camping or emergencies. They can power keep the lights on in your camper or power your saw or nail gun for hours.
• Inverter generators like portage generators can be taken camping or on a job site, they provide energy that remains stable while in use. Ideal for protecting electronic equipment from power surges.

Generator Fuel Types

When selecting a generator, consider the fuel requirements. Make sure the fuel source for your generator is easily available when needed. Here are the common types of generator fuel:

Gasoline

Gasoline generators are the most common type of generator and are cost-effective, but higher fuel costs might make them more expensive in the long run.

Pros:

• Easily accessible and simple to buy
• Are more affordable than other types of generators

Cons:

• Used exclusively outdoors
• Raising fuel costs
• Noisy

Diesel

Diesel generators are dependable in harsh conditions like freezing temperatures. They provide the highest energy output per gallon and can operate continuously for long periods.

Pros:

• Long-lasting
• Cheaper to operate compared to gasoline generators

Cons:

• Used exclusively outdoors
• Hard to find and more expensive than gasoline generators
• Noisy

Natural Gas

Natural gas generators produce fewer harmful emissions than gasoline and diesel. They are durable with regular maintenance but have high initial costs.

Pros:

• Lower emission
• Can connect to existing pipeline

Cons:

• Maintenance costs are high
• Used exclusively outdoors
• Higher installation costs
• Vulnerable to extremely cold climates

Solar

Solar generators harness clean, emission-free energy from the sun, enabling indoor use. While they require minimal maintenance, they can be costly to acquire.

Pros:

• No emissions
• Suitable for indoor use

Cons:

• Expensive
• Not reliable in emergencies
• Lower power output

Generator Safety

Generators are valuable for power outages or remote locations, but they must be handled carefully to prevent injuries or damage. Remember:

• Generators should be a minimum of 20 feet from your home, campsite, or job site.
• Keep the generator away from water
• Never operate the generator in an enclosed space
• Avoid overpowering as it can damage your electronic or start a fire

Interlake Electric offers assistance in setting up a transfer switch to connect your portable generator to your home power supply. To learn more about using a generator for backup power at home, feel free to contact us for more information.