Backup Power Generators

Usually, the most commonly purchased backup power generator in the United States, is a portable gas operated type of generator. However, there are a lot more details that you need to know before deciding to purchase a generator.

First, determine the total wattage that the generator is going to need to replace, and then choose a generator with a slightly larger wattage than the total amount. Wattage is usually listed on the motor of the generator. If wattage is not listed, but amperage is, you can determine the wattage by multiplying amps by volts.

There is a definite risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when using backup power generators, so be sure to place your generator at least 10 feet from your home. Check the guidelines of the machine you are
looking at to see what their recommendations are.

If you are going to use your backup power generator on a regular basis, you might want to consider a more permanent generator, called a standby generator. These can give you power for an unlimited amount of time because they are connected to an outside fuel source such as a gas line. Standby generators often have a sensor that determines if there is a power outage, and they will start up automatically. Portable generators, on the other hand, have to be wheeled out from storage, during a power outage, which may or may not be in undesirable weather conditions, filled with fuel, manually hooked up to the power loads, and manually started.