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Thinking Of Buying Generator? Here’s A Useful Guide
Generator
Power is an integral sector of every nation and one of the key factors of the success or failure of a business. While Government allocate enormous resource to the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity for consumption , some countries still experience constant power outage that canGe be very consequential for Individuals as well as Small and Medium Enterprise. This loss can be human , material or both.
Individuals and businesses prepare for power outage by purchasing electric generators , otherwise known as power generators.
A power generator has two principal parts. The first is an engine head that burns fuel into power. The second part is a generator head that converts the power generated into electricity.
The Various Categories
In selecting a generator for use, it is important to know the various categories of generators available in the market. The categories are as follows:
Generators for recreational use :
Generators in this category are used for camping, in caravans and mobile homes, mobile businesses as well as small events. Inverter generators are the most frequently purchased in this class. These generators produce ultra-clean voltages so you can power sensitive electronics like phones, tablets, TVs and other smaller devices. These generators are portable, lightweight and economical.
Generators for Mobile Trades and Business :
These class of generators serve construction sites, small farm holdings, rural property, welding and power/cutting tools and small-scale mining activities. These generators run on either petrol or diesel; they are sturdy, fitted with steel frames and condenser style alternators. They have features suitable for heavy and resistive power loads.
Generators for Emergency backup /Stationary purpose :
These are larger generators that provide substantial power supply for commercial purposes as required by large plants, hospitals, military installations , e.t.c. These generators are mostly diesel-powered and run in three phases. They are moved by forklifts or cranes and mostly installed by highly trained professionals.
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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY
Based on the categories mentioned above , here are some tips to guide you when shopping for a generator.
Know your Power requirements/priorities :
Generators are purchased based on the amount of wattage generated. Before settling for any generator, it is important to state how many devices, bulbs, and lights you plan to power at once or in aggregation.
Typical values for wattage for primary devices start at 5,000 watts. A few examples include the refrigerator (approximately 600 watts), sump pump (800 to 1,500 watts), small heaters (1,500 watts), window air conditioner (1,000 watts), lights (60 watts), and tablets (60 to 300 watts).
Under this category, the reliability of the generator matters, especially during peak usage periods.
Select a class option :
You can either go for a stationary/standby generator installed permanently outside or the portable variety. While the former powers large machinery and equipment, the latter is more suited for smaller devices and non-commercial purposes.
Consider the fuel type :
Generators use different fuel sources to generate electricity. These sources include petrol (gasoline), diesel, liquid propane and Natural Gas. Each source has its pros and cons.
For example, diesel generators are less costly to maintain. Petrol is more readily available and affordable. Hence a large number of users opt for them. Propane and natural gas generators are less common than both gasoline and diesel.
You should factor in their availability and affordability before making your decision.
