Author: David Clair

Before we get into choosing a portable generator, let\'s review exactly what a portable generator is, and what the standard uses for them are.

What is a portable generator? Typical portable generators are fueled by unleaded gasoline and have standard 120-volt power outlets like the outlets you have on the walls of your home.

What can portable generators be used for? Portable generators are extremely versatile and can be used for a wide variety of purposes. Among the most common uses of a portable generator are:

- Providing power for a home in an emergency
- Power in locations that do not have access to standard eletric outlets
- Recreational use, such as at campsites and in RVs.

Honeywell Portable Generator Electric Start - 5500 Watt Bring the appliances outdoors and prepare for any emergency with the Honeywell 5500 Watt Electric Start Portable Generator. 5500 continuous watts (6875 maximum watts) and a 6.5 gallon fuel tank help this generator run for 8 hours at a 50% load (220 lbs). This generator couldn't be easier to use with a color coded starting control, simplified power control center and 24 hour instructions. This portable power generator comes with everything needed, including the first liter of oil and funnel, never-flat wheels, an easy mobility high leverage handle and a 4 in 1 power cord. The sound filtered oversized muffler offers quiet operation, while low oil protection, fuel gauge, automatic voltage regulation and overload protectioncomplete this generator. Big-Bore 337cc 11HP OHV Honeywell Engine provides more power and durability. 45.8A at 120 Volts, 22.9A at 240 Volts. Made of steel, copper, aluminum.

How do I use a portable generator? When the generator is running, you simply plug in your tools or appliances into the 120-volt (standard) electric outlets. Some models of generators also have 240-volt outlets. 240-volt outlets are used for large appliances like clothes dryers.

Now, let\'s talk about what to look for when choosing the right portable generator for you.

How high of a power capacity do I need?
Generators use two basic power measurements: peak power (sometimes referred to as startup power), and continuous power. Both kinds of power are measured in wattage.

- Peak power is the required wattage that appliances need at startup or when they are running at their highest power consumption levels.
- Continuous power is the required wattage to operate appliances under normal circumstances.

BRIGGS & STRATTON 3,500 Watt Elite Series Generator 3,500 Running Watts, 4,800 Starting Watts 6.5 HP BRIGGS & STRATTON Intek OHV Engine For longer life, longer running and reduced noise 4 Gallon Fuel Tank / 12 Hours Run Time at Half Load Power Surge Alternator Lo-Tone Muffler (4) 120V-20A Outlets, (1) 120/240V-20A Outlet Wheel Kit Included Dimensions: 38" x 22.5" x 21" Warranty: 2 Year BRIGGS & STRATTON Limited Warranty

What are standby generators? Standby generators are generators that create anywhere from 5,000 to 25,000 watts of power (sometimes even more). You need to choose a generator that supplies enough peak power and continuous power for the appliances that you need to keep powered.

What are you going to use your generator for? For recreational use, A small 1,000-watt portable generator could be all you will need. If you need to power tools at a remote jobsite, you could require up to about 8,000 watts of power.

Another thing to consider is how many outlets you will need on your generator. Make sure there are enough outlets to power all of the appliances you will be using at one time.

Portable Power 1100 Watt Generator Truck Freight Ships within 24 to 72 hours When it comes to high power output with easy to carry easy to handle and easy to use features this model offers everything you need. A rugged and heavy duty generator in a small light and portable configuration. This generator is an industry standard among small portable generators. Weight 55 lbs

The size of the fuel tank is another consideration and is very important. Depending on how long you will potentially need your portable generator to run, you may need a larger fuel tank. The larger the fuel tank, the longer your generator will be able to run without refueling.

Now that you know what to look for, you can compare different portable generators and find out which one will meet your needs. A good resource for your research can be found at this portable generator reference website.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/tools-and-equipment-articles/how-to-choose-the-right-portable-generator-for-you-779292.html

About the Author:

David Clair is an internet professional and all around good guy. Some of the websites he is currently working on include: 2Frog Media Reference and MightyChair Camping Chairs , among others.

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