How to Buy Generators

Generators are necessary for situations where you will inevitably have a power outage. Even in disaster planning, having this type of system in your home or place of business can protect you from potential loss of electricity. Most people who purchase them in the United States purchase portable systems that run on a small gas engine, though other options are available as well. If you plan to have one in your home or business to use in a power outage, it pays to have the right one there to help you.

Sizing Counts

One of the most important aspects of using these devices is having the right size. Of course, the larger the system is, the more expensive it is and the harder it is to maneuver. It is often best to talk to a dealer about your home's particular needs prior to making a decision about which size is right for you. The number of appliances or systems running off the generator, plus the overall demand from each one of those appliances plays a role in the size necessary. The wattage of the system should be clearly present on the device.

Safety Matters Too

Another factor to consider when investing in generators is the level of safety it offers. In general, these systems are safe to use if you store them properly and maintain them. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends storing them at least 10 feet away from the home, though, due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning that some units have. If you want to reduce this risk more so, consider investing in a permanently installed system instead. These run on natural gas or, sometimes, propane. They are safer to keep in the home when professional installed.

What Else Matters?

When buying a generator, there are other factors to think about before you make an investment.

• Does the system come with a warranty? What type of guarantee is available?

• The cost does matter. Some inexpensive models may have very low wattage or may have a short timeframe for providing power. Choose an affordable model that is worth your money.

• Do consider noise levels. Most often, these systems run much louder than a furnace will run because of the gas-powered engine. However, it is a good idea for you to consider noise as a secondary factor behind wattage and efficiency.

There is no doubt about it, when the power goes out generators are an important tool to have on hand. If you invest in the right one, you will have a device that lasts for years and provides you with a reliable backup. It pays to compare several different makes and models, as well as various sizes, to find the one that is right for your home's particular needs.