Buying Guide

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MODEL OF PORTABLE GENERATOR FOR YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS

To find the best generator for your needs, start by identifying it's primary use; whether it's for camping, powering your RV, powering a construction jobsite, powering your food truck, or just to have at home in case of emergencies, etc. From there, you can determine which type of generator is ideal for your needs.

There are 2 main types of portable generators: conventional and inverter. 

Conventional portable generators run their engines at a set pace as needed to produce a set amount of electrical energy. As that happens, the alternator creates alternating current (AC) power that’s ready to flow directly to your connected devices. This type of AC power is perfect for power tools, lights, industrial tools, equipment, machinery, appliances, etc., things of that nature. This type of AC power is not suitable for powering delicate electronics like computers, smartphones, TV's, etc. because power surges are common, which is when the voltage increases beyond the normal range, which will damage microchips and microprocessors in your sensitive electronics. Conventional models are generally less expensive than inverter models but they are almost always going to be louder and less eco-friendly than inverter models.

Portable inverter generators work differently than conventional models. The process starts out the same- an internal combustion engine burns fuel to create mechanical energy. That mechanical energy is used to power an alternator, which produces electrical energy in the form of AC. The AC then passes through a rectifier that converts it from AC to DC (direct current) voltage. The DC then goes through the inverter unit, which converts the DC power back into clean, stable, predictable and high-quality AC, which is exactly what we need to keep our sensitive electronic equipment safe from power surges and other issues that could damage their delicate internals. Inverter generators throttle the engine speed up or down as the demand/load changes, which saves fuel and lowers the noise level even more. Inverter generators are generally going to be more expensive than conventional, but they are known for being much quieter and more eco-friendly compared to conventional generators. 

 

THINGS TO REMEMBER WHEN CHOOSING THE RIGHT MODEL

FUEL TYPE- Consider which fuel source will be the most practical and best option for your needs. Choose a fuel that would be available and affordable in times of emergency. Also remember that dual-fuel and tri-fuel options are available. 

NOISE LEVEL- Decide whether noise level will be a concern or not. If the noise level is a major concern, an inverter generator is what you're going to need. 

WATTAGE- Add up the wattage of the devices that you would be connecting to the generator at any given time and choose a model with the appropriate wattage.

EMISSIONS- Some states, like California, will not allow you to have certain models in the state because the emissions are too great, so check your local laws before purchasing.

OUTLET TYPES- There are many different types of plugs and power outlets for different devices, so be careful and mindful of that when shopping for your generator.

FEATURES- Electric start, remote start, low-oil shutoff, app connectivity, etc. are all examples of features that are available, so don't forget to pay attention to those features when shopping for the right generator. 

 

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to email us and ask us anything, we are here to help!

support@loyalgenerators.com