Ever got caught in a power outage where you were left fumbling in the dark, shivering in the chills or without your must-have appliances? If so, then you know just what a pain it can be. Power failures are somewhat like those uninvited guests – they can show up anytime, at any place, for reasons of their own. Reasons such as severe weather, an accident or even sabotage.
So it's genius to have a Plan B when it comes to electricity needs at home. And what else is hip and ingenious? Well, a portable generator. This useful little gizmo can generate power from either fuel or solar energy.
In this article, we are going to explore portable generators. We will describe what a generator is, types that prevail in the market, and discuss whether you need one for your home or not. In addition, we will share some pros, cons, as well as recommendations to help you choose the ideal generator that fits your specific needs. Well then, let's get it rolling!
What Is a Portable Generator?
A portable generator is a compact and mobile device that provides temporary electrical power. It is designed to be easily moved and can be used in various settings, such as construction sites, outdoor events, camping trips, or as a backup power source for homes during emergencies. Portable generators typically run on fuel, such as gasoline, diesel, or propane, and they generate electricity through an internal combustion engine. And now there is a new portable generator named solar powered generator, which means it can use solar to run a generator, and which will be safer and environmentally.
These generators come equipped with outlets to which electrical devices or appliances can be connected, allowing users to power lights, tools, appliances, or other electronic equipment. They offer flexibility and convenience in situations where a permanent or stationary power source is not available or practical.
Types of Portable Generator
Looking for a portable generator? Well, you have a few options! Let's break them down:
First up, we've got standard portable generators. These are your most common and affordable type. They are powered by gas or diesel engines and can be used to power a number of household devices and gadgets. However, these models may also prove to be rather noisy and heavy, produce fumes, which are dangerous, require maintenance, as well as re-fueling.
The next category to discuss refers to inverter generators. They are lighter, compact than standard generators. They produce stored electricity by using batteries, as a result, clean, stable power output is produced. Best for sensitive electronics! They can be solar or other source charged, which makes them portable. But they do come with a higher price tag and have a lower power capacity than standard generators.
Then there are the standby generators. These units are permanently installed and connected to your electrical system. When the home’s power goes out, they automatically start running, and they will run for long periods of time. Ultra-reliable and convenient! But they also cost a presumptuous packet — as well as demanding professional installation and maintenance.
Last but not least are solar generators. You can generate renewable and eco-friendly power with them. They have the solar panels which capture the sun’s energy, stored in batteries. They have zero gas emissions. However, they are weather-dependent and cannot give you lot of energy.
Should I Get a Portable Generator for My House?
So is it actually a great idea for you to get one portable generator at your place of residence? Well, in fact, that depends on what your needs and desires are. The following are several reasons when you do want to consider getting one:
First if you live in an area that power outages are common or unpredictable, save your life probably as you use a portable generator. It gives you backup power and comes with peace of mind. No more worrying about losing food, water, heat or communication during an emergency.
Second, except for the noisy that comes with the generators if your focus is on saving some little money on the electricity bills then as well the portable generator can be of help. It helps reduce your dependency off the grid. You may use it to run most of your appliances or devices at home mostly when the demand is high and so are the rates.
Lastly, if you are an outdoor enthusiast or perhaps a busybody type of person who is always on the run, the portable generator might just be your best friend. You can use it to power up your mobile home or even your tent! It's like bringing your home comfort with you all the time!
Related articles: A Guide for Choosing Home Portable Power Stations with Battery
What Is the Best Generator for Power Outages in Canada?
How to Choose the Best Solar Generator for Home Backup Power?
Advantages of Portable Generators
Portable generators are good for emergency reasons - also come in pretty handy for the house! Here is another plus to owning a house portable generator:
- Emergency Power: This portable generator is best for providing the interrupted power supply during load shedding hours for further running of required home appliances and equipment including medical devices, security systems or communication device.
- Power to Appliances: Equipment like the computer, lights and even electronics will remain functional when the grid is down; it hence may help in saving electricity bills.
- Power For Tools: They are quite ideal for workplace tools and special projects, even remotely ones, powering pivotal tools while remaining easily portable as always.
- Recreation: Power RVs or campers or tents and may allow mini-fridge, fan or radio for more outdoor comfort.
- Safeguards Against Damages: Keep the fresh food safe, keep basements dry and home mold-and-mildew free even when away from home.
Tips for Choosing a Portable Generator for Your House
Choosing a mobile generator for your home can be challenging, but here are some pointers to help you:
- Add the running watts and the highest starting watts of the items that you like to power up on to get a needed size. Select a generator that can make as such at least the wattage.
- Look for a time running for over ten hours at half-load so you wouldn't be forced to be refueling frequently.
- Check the outlets and see if they get compatible with the type, and number of your appliances. Look for a 30amp locking-type outlet for high-wattage items operation.
- Go for the product featuring folding handles and wheels that will increase portability in terms of movement, storage, and set up.
- You can have a cord set included if necessary to avoid the fuss of dealing with so many extension cords.
3 Top Rated Solar Powered Generators You Need To Have
Best solar home generators? Consider these highly-rated options from BLUETTI. They are eco friendly, free-of-gas, quiet, and cash-saving.
AC200P + 3*PV200
The mobile energy station of the AC200P + 3*PV200 Generator features a whopping 2000W pure sine wave inverter, allowing a 4800W peak surge power and three solar-dependable panels, each featuring a 200W output. It applies a 2000Wh lithium iron phosphate cell that withstands more than 3500 cycles. It has 17 different output ports to cater for your devices and can be charged on 7 options which include solar, AC, car among others. Since every PV200 solar panel displays a 350W maximum power, it signifies the AC200P may take about three hours to be 100% charged.
AC200MAX + 3*PV200
The AC200MAX +Solar Generator Kit features one AC200MAX mobile electricity station and three PV200 solar-based panels. The inverter's peak capacity stands at 4800W with a 2200W pure sine wave. Lithium iron phosphate battery rates at 2048Wh, expandable through the B230 or B300 expansion modules provided. It features a total of 7 charging modes which range from solar, AC, as well as car charging to name but a few. The PV200 solar panels have a peak power of 350W, and charging the AC200MAX should take around 3 hours. This kit also has smart control and monitor through the BLUETTI app.
AC300 +B300 + 3*PV200
The AC300 +B300 + 3*PV200 Generator includes a AC300 mobile electricity station, a B300 battery module, and three PV200 solar panels from BLUETTI. The AC300 features a 3000W pure sine wave inverter that surges to 6000W. It is made up of 3072Wh lithium iron phosphate battery which can be extended to with up to four B300 modules. Its charging ways also comprise of 7, including solar, AC, car, and so on. Each one of the PV200 solar panels is capable of delivering maximal power of 350W, while they can completely charge an AC300 in approximately 4 hours. The kit can also offer 240V split phase bonding and home backup, which offers UPS over an entire week.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, a portable generator is an intelligent move when it comes to home investment. It avails to its owner backup power, convenience, comfort and security suiting different needs from emergencies to normal family life. Nevertheless, the most preferred generator for your unique circumstance would be the perfect one in size, run time, outlets, portability, as well as appliances requiring power. A good option to consider when seeking a greener fire up is solar-powered generators, notably from BLUETTI. They offer clean and dependable power, and so it's an investment that would be a great addition to any home. So whether for emergencies or daily energy needs, having a portable generator is an investment worth having in every home.
