Best Generator Buying Guide

A home generator is essential for emergency preparedness. It can keep lights, appliances, heating systems, air conditioning, sump pumps, WiFi, and other necessities running, preventing food spoilage and basement flooding. For individuals reliant on electrically powered medical devices, a generator can be a crucial lifesaver.

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As power outages become more frequent and prolonged, owning a generator is becoming increasingly vital across the country. An Associated Press study revealed that climate change-induced wildfires, hurricanes, and ice storms have doubled the number of power outages in the U.S. over the past two decades. In the last recorded year, the average electrical outage lasted over 5 hours, up from just over 3 hours, as reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Extreme weather events, including hurricanes and ice storms, are significant contributors to these outages.

Though generators are lifesavers during severe weather, they also pose safety risks if precautions are neglected. Many people purchase generators ahead of major storms, often in haste and using flashlights, which can lead to skipping essential safety procedures when connecting a generator to appliances or electrical panels at home. Tragically, many lives are lost each year due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning linked to generator use.

To ensure safety, always operate a generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from your home, with exhaust directed away from the building. Installing functional carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home is crucial before using a generator.

Starting Watts

Starting watts are vital when choosing a generator, as some appliances require more power to start than to run. For instance, an air conditioner may need 2,000 watts to start but only 1,500 watts during operation.

Running Watts

Running watts indicate the continuous power a generator can provide. If you intend to use the generator for a refrigerator, ensure it can meet both startup and running power needs.

Here's a breakdown of appliance power requirements:

What Can You Power?

Watt Starting / Watt Continuous

13,500 BTU RV
Air Conditioner

W

Electric Grill

W

TV

150W

Mini Fridge

100W

LED String
Lights

15W

Watt-hour (Wh) Capacity

Watt-hours quantify the energy consumption of an appliance over time. For example, a refrigerator using 100 watts would consume 2,400 watt-hours (or 2.4 kWh) in a day.

When selecting a portable power station or estimating your power needs, watt-hours are crucial for understanding energy requirements.

What Does Peak Output Mean?

Peak output, akin to starting watts, supports devices with additional surge requirements like refrigerators. Running watts refer to the continuous power available until battery energy is depleted. "Wh" signifies the stored energy available for use.

For instance, the JACKERY Explorer 400 offers a peak output of 290Wh with 200W continuous power and 400W peak output.

Common sizes for portable power stations vary based on user needs.

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Peak output is an essential specification when selecting a portable power station, particularly for high-demand appliances. Ensure its peak wattage can handle the initial surge required to power these devices.

Start Type

The start type pertains to how the generator's engine is activated. Predator generators offer two types of starting methods: recoil start and electric start.

• Recoil start: A manual method where the user pulls a cord to initiate the engine.

• Electric start: A method where a button or switch is pressed to start the engine; this requires a battery for the starter motor.

The start type affects the ease of use and any required additional equipment.

Sound Rating

Sound rating reflects the noise produced by a generator while operating, measured in decibels (dBA). Generators generate noise from combustion and mechanical components.

This rating is essential, especially when using a generator in residential areas or noise-sensitive locations like campgrounds.

Closed-frame SUPER QUIET inverter generators are the quietest options available.

Run Time

Run time indicates how long a generator can operate on a single fuel tank, which can vary based on generator type, engine efficiency, and load.

Manufacturers typically specify run time based on various loads, such as 25% or 50% output. Essentially, it indicates the average duration a generator will last on one tank of gas, affected by load variations.

Consider run time to ensure it meets your power needs without frequent refueling.

Carbon Monoxide Safety

For carbon monoxide safety while using a generator, adhere to these guidelines:

• Always operate the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated space. Avoid enclosed areas like garages, even with the door open.

• Do not operate in wet conditions or near standing water to minimize the risk of electric shock and potential damage.

• Turn off the generator and let it cool before refueling to prevent fire hazards.

By following these precautions and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions, you can ensure carbon monoxide safety when using a generator.

All Predator generators from Harbor Freight now feature CO Secure, which automatically shuts down the generator when high carbon monoxide levels are detected.

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