The Best Generator For You
After the mayhem that ensued during our run-up to Dorian and the last couple hurricanes, we thought now would be a good time to start discussing generator options. There are three main categories of power sources to consider: conventional generator, inverter generator or whole-home generator. The difference between them is how they deliver power, size, price and fuel sources available. Your decision will likely be based on one or more of the following: size, cost, efficiency, fuel source, items to be powered and complexity. Each category has an advantage of some sort, the option you choose should be based on your needs, there isn’t one best answer.
- Conventional Generator
This is the least expensive and least sophisticated of the three. Generators are, basically, small engines attached to alternators. Conventional generators deliver “dirty” AC current, they are not very precise and not a great option for running sensitive electronics like computers. The power delivery is constant, the generator must run at a consistent speed (usually 3600 RPM) to deliver useful power, fluctuation in RPM causes fluctuation in output. Conventional generators are noisy and inefficient compared to the other two, but they are also a fraction of the price. Because of their design and intended use, conventional generators typically have large fuel capacity and are fairly heavy. You will need to run an extension cord to the unit which typically only has two or three pronged outlets. This is a great option for running tools on a jobsite, but not the best option for camping nor tailgating. The size of the generator will be determined by the appliances you will need to power and their power demands. Think about what you will need in the case of a long-term power outage, find their power requirements and get an appropriately sized generator. Fuel is typically gas or diesel, but you can find kits to convert to propane or natural gas.
- Inverter Generator
These units are a bit more complicated. AC electricity is produced by the engine, like conventional generators, but that power is converted into DC and then inverted back into clean AC using advanced circuitry and magnets. What results is a much more efficient unit delivering sophisticated power, tailored for the appliances that are drawing from the generator. The engine only runs as hard as is needed at any given time. Compared to conventional units, inverter generators are smaller, lighter, quieter and more efficient. This is the perfect choice for recreational use in tailgating and camping but due to their portability they have a much smaller fuel capacity. Their efficient nature results in run times around 8 hours on a single tank of fuel, they also produce less exhaust (an important consideration as exhaust is the biggest risk of using a generator). Like conventional generators, they have two or three-pronged outlets to which extension cords can be run. They are more expensive than their conventional counterparts but have recently become more affordable. Fuel is typically gas or diesel, but you can find kits to convert to propane or natural gas.
- Whole-home Generator
This is the most expensive of the three by quite a margin, up to $10,000 or more for just the unit. That price is probably only about half of the total cost, as the wiring and installation is also expensive. These are much larger and obviously more expensive than the other two, are permanently installed on location and are wired into the home directly. One major consideration is that you cannot move it and it must be in a high and dry location. Typically, they are fueled by a large propane or natural gas source and have a battery powered starter. They can run for extended periods of time and, depending on features, may require you to do nothing to turn it on. As soon as there is a power outage the unit turns on and can power your entire home, or a good portion of it, as if nothing ever happened. The size of the unit you choose will be based on what appliances you don’t want to be without. A smaller unit can power a cook top, refrigerator/freezer and charge small electronics. If you want to keep everything up and running a larger unit will be necessary.
Obviously, having electricity makes an uncomfortable and stressful situation more tolerable. For some it is not an option, those with certain healthcare requirements must have electricity. Shelters are often crowded for that reason and do not allow pets. If you have a reliable power source at your home, it might be just what you need to make it through an often-lengthy disaster recovery. Consult the power demands of the items you deem vital to your life or comfort and determine the best unit for you. As technology improves, generators become smaller, cheaper and more efficient. There are options for just about any budget. Here’s hoping none of us need one any time soon.
