Do you need a power generator and are looking for a comprehensive guide on the operation, features, and safe use of generator sets? We’re here to help!
Our team of experts has already gathered all the most important information and advice about power generators. Together we’ll examine the concrete advantages of this tool, highlighting the precautions to take before each use. Given the ease of use and the resulting benefits, it’s no surprise that in recent years there has been widespread adoption even in domestic settings.
A good generator can provide you with the energy needed to complete work and illuminate a space. Additionally, it’s an excellent safety valve in case of bad weather or local power outages. By carefully reading this article, you’ll not only know the typical uses of a power generator but also how to choose the perfect one for you!
What is a Generator Set?
A power generator is an effective tool, simple to use and capable of transforming certain types of energy into electrical power. Models available on the market have different sizes and power outputs, but they can all become the primary energy source for a space that lacks it.
Often used as true emergency backups, generator sets also perform secondary and support functions. They can be used for night work, on construction sites, and even to illuminate any type of outdoor event. They’re useful for creating an alternative energy source for your home, but also for powering mobile kitchens, heating systems, and even running the freezer in your garage. This appliance saves spaces not covered by a normal electricity supply contract.
Power Generators: Different Types
Power generators are tools of variable power and size, capable of producing constant energy when there is no other power source or during a sudden blackout. The first distinction to make between different generator sets is based on the type of fuel they need to operate. There are two types of generators:
Gasoline Generators
These are the smaller models, with lower power and especially suitable for home use. Portable ones also belong to this category, easy to start and can even be transported in the trunk of a car to be used in outdoor camping.
Diesel Generators
These are the more powerful generators with larger dimensions, often used in warehouses or construction sites without electricity. They’re perfect even for outdoor events, as they can power multiple devices simultaneously.
Both can provide bipolar current, compatible with many tools and usually with a capacity of only 3 kW. However, there are 2-stroke or 4-stroke models, which differ in overall performance and consumption. For example, the 4-stroke guarantees greater performance, and to run a 350-cc engine, it needs half a Liter of gasoline to operate for an hour.
How Does a Power Generator Work?
The power generator is often also defined as a “stand-alone” machine, meaning it can achieve on its own the purpose for which it was built. Power of the generator set is provided by the collaboration between the thermal engine and the electric alternator. The first implements the rotary movement, while the second can transform this energy into electric current. This is where the name comes from: alternating current generator! But the essential components of the generator certainly don’t end here.
In addition to the main parts, there are also electronic and electrical elements that transport the current generated by the alternator to standard or direct current valves. There are generator sets intended for standard use, with single-phase (220 V) and three-phase (400 V) plugs, but also those suitable for intensive use, capable of providing continuous 12 V power.
Generator Sets: Differences Based on Uses
To choose a power generator suitable for your needs, the first thing to do is identify the concrete use you’ll make of it. As we’ve already mentioned, the size, power, and functionality of generator sets vary according to their intended use. Here are some of the most widespread models:
Marine or Terrestrial Power Generator
This is one of the most important distinctions to keep in mind, as marine power generators are designed with durable materials that resist corrosion caused by salt water. Moreover, they also have a cooling system that protects them from high temperatures, also caused by continuous exposure to the sun.
Stationary or Portable Generator Set
Stationary models must be placed in well-defined areas and are bulkier and heavier. But they also have greater power capable of providing the necessary energy for an entire construction site or warehouse. It’s important to know that stationary models require more space and must be transported using special vehicles.
Portable models are lighter, compact, and intended for common use. Such as powering caravans, outdoor exhibitions, or as a simple auxiliary system in case of blackouts. They can be equipped with wheels, handles, have a smaller tank, and reduced power compared to stationary ones.
Electric Start Models
Unlike classic models, which start through manual pull systems, these generators have a battery-powered starter motor. Despite having a greater weight, this important technological evolution has also made possible the use of remote-control systems. These models are equipped with displays that provide information on the status of the machinery. Additionally, they can be controlled by apps on mobile devices and require little maintenance. In addition to automatic starting, this type of generator also has detection systems for voltage drops and shutdown systems in case of failures. This is the most suitable model for beginners, but it also has a significant purchase price.
Silenced Power Generator
Last but not least, there is also the generator set specially designed to minimize noise emission. These are the most sought-after models for domestic use, as they are among the few capable of not disturbing the peace of people who live or work nearby. The structure of these appliances is equipped with vibration reduction systems, made with soundproofing materials. This is the ideal choice for those who need to use the power generator in a populated centre and must respect certain noise thresholds that must not exceed 55 db.
Inverter Power Generator
This is the best solution to never give up constant, stable electrical energy without any voltage fluctuations. These models are perfect for powering any type of household appliance, as they guarantee a continuous flow without interruptions. They are small, compact, manageable, and easy to transport.
How to Use a Power Generator
Even though you’ve understood how a power generator works, do you still have some doubts about its concrete use? First, we remind you that generator sets cannot be used in enclosed spaces, as they produce exhaust fumes harmful to humans. Once you’ve identified the perfect model for you, you’ll need to make sure you have enough fuel. To fill the tank, simply pour the gasoline or diesel into the appropriate filler neck when the power generator is off. Then place the tank at a distance and start your tool according to the built-in system, pressing the ON button for electric start models or pulling the lever in those with pull start. In the latter case, it may be necessary to pull more than once and with due pressure to start it.
At this point, the appliance is on and running, so you can attach an extension cord to connect all utilities.
How to Choose the Perfect Power Generator for You: The Most Important Elements
Even before selecting the generator, you need to consider the use it’s intended for and the operating time. Only then can you carefully examine the elements that distinguish the different types of generators. Let’s see together what characteristics should not be overlooked!
The Power of the Power Generator
This is the most important characteristic of any power generator, the only one capable of guaranteeing you prolonged use and adequate supply for any type of appliance. The greater the number of tools you intend to connect, the larger the dimensions of the tool and the built-in engine will be. The risks in this case are two: undersizing the load compared to the utilities to be powered, creating problems when starting the connected equipment, or oversizing it, creating excessive strain on the generator, with consequent waste of fuel and oil.
So how do you understand what power is needed? It’s simple!
You just need to add up all the total consumption of the equipment you want to connect to the generator. The power of the latter is calculated in Kilovolt Ampere and is highlighted on every package and in every instruction booklet.
Ease of Transport
The power generator is a truly versatile tool, easy to use and useful in different situations. To meet everyone’s needs, there are lighter and easier-to-transport models on the market, but also more bulky ones that require special vehicles to be transported.
If your goal is to choose a compact generator set, you will also need to check the total weight of the appliance. Furthermore, to facilitate the movement of this tool as much as possible, it is advisable to focus on models that are equipped with wheels and handles.
Overload Switch and Voltage Stabilizers
Every good power generator must have a built-in safety system that includes an overload switch. Necessary to automatically stop the machine in case of short circuit or overload. This type of protection can safeguard both the well-being of the engine and the proper functioning of the alternator.
The voltage stabilizer, also known as a regulator or Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR), can automatically regulate the current coming from the alternator. No matter what the required load is, this mechanism can transform the flow into direct current.
Tank Size and Noise Emitted
The tank is the container for fuel, whose capacity directly influences the autonomy of the power generator. The larger the tank, the longer the working time of the tool. Although the average range is usually between a minimum of 4 Liters and a maximum of 28 Liters, for continuous use of a good 10 hours.
Another element not to be underestimated is certainly the degree of noise emitted by the machinery. If you intend to use a power generator at home, you will certainly have to respect the rules regarding public peace. The value to check in this case is that calculated in decibels. Remember that to opt for a generator set that doesn’t disturb the neighbours, you’ll need to focus on models with averages between 50 and 55 decibels.
The Cost of the Power Generator
Among the elements that influence the choice of a power generator, price also occupies a place of importance. These appliances are certainly not economical. And the overall cost varies according to the various characteristics of the product.
If you’ve never used a power generator before or if you think you can’t make an exact estimate of the power you might need, you risk making a wrong investment. Fortunately, there is an alternative: rental! This type of service allows you to save time and money, making available to you many different models to choose from.
Generator Set Rental
As we’ve already seen, generator sets are machines specially designed to provide a constant flow of electric current. It’s not surprising that more and more businesses and individuals choose rental instead of purchase. As it’s more advantageous and more economical. For example, here are some of the positive aspects of rental:
- There is a wide availability of generators with different powers and sizes to choose from.
- You can test multiple models, requesting a change at any time.
- The price to pay is agreed upon from the start and is proportional to the workload to be performed and its duration.
- You no longer must worry about maintenance or repairs of the machinery.
- You can choose between home delivery and on-site pickup.
Final Considerations
We hope that our complete guide on generator sets has been helpful to you. And that you’ve managed to understand what the uses and most important elements of these tools are. We just want to remind you that the best solution to test or use a quality power generator is rental! Protect yourself from emergency situations and rely on rentmas’ serious and transparent service.
