Choosing the Right Portable Generator

Learn about the different types of portable generators to choose from.

Portable generators are smaller and less expensive than household standby generators. If there is a power outage, you can use a portable generator to run a few appliances. This includes things like your refrigerator, sump pump, a few fans, small air conditioner, or a heater.

Having this type of generator is also very useful to take with you when there is limited electricity. It can provide you portable power at places like construction work sites, camping sites, tailgate parties, and more.

Learn about the different features to consider when looking for a portable generator with Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Gas Portable Generators

Portable gas and natural gas generators can serve a number of different purposes. They can be great to bring to a campsite or to your tailgate party. In case of a power outage, you can also use them as a backup power supply.

However, keep in mind the amount of power available is limited to how much fuel you have on hand.

Electric Start Portable Generators

An electric start generator has a push button, unlike a gas generator, which has a pull start.

However, with electric start generators, there is more maintenance with keeping the battery charged.

Inverter Portable Generators

An inverter generator converts DC to AC power. They are more expensive than other portable generators. However, they emit a higher quality output and are less noisy.

Inverter generators are smaller, lightweight, and more fuel efficient. This makes them excellent in the case of an emergency power failure or if you’re camping.

Important Portable Generator Safety Features

When you’re looking for the right generator to fit your needs, here are some important safety features to consider.

Manual Fuel Shutoff Switch

This prevents leaks and keeps fuel from getting trapped in the fuel system.

With portable generators, the general idea is to turn the switch on. Then, let the engine operate until it runs out of gas and stalls out.

Low Oil Shutoff Indicator

When your generator is running for hours at a time, it can be hard to keep track of your oil level.

The low oil shutoff indicator will shut off the engine before the engine potentially seizes.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Fuel-powered generators give off exhaust that contains carbon monoxide. Most of the generators that use fuel come with built-in carbon monoxide sensors.

The generator will turn off if it detects high levels of carbon monoxide.

Circuit-Breaker Protected Outlet

This helps prevent you from overloading your generator.

Fuel Gauge

This lets you know how much fuel you have left in the tank.

Now that you have all the essential generator information, you’re one step closer to buying your very own generator.

For more information on generators and other power equipment, check out our Outdoor Power Equipment Blog.