A Quick Guide To Choosing A Generator For Temporary Power

If you're planning an outdoor party or know that bad weather may knock out the power to your home for a time, you may want to consider renting a generator for temporary power. This can ensure you don't lose food you have in the refrigerator and that you can still run your furnace or air conditioner if necessary. When you shop for a rental generator, you may be surprised at the different choices and options you have, so note a few tips for selecting the best one for you and your home.

1. Standby generators

A standby generator refers to one that is hooked up to your home's electrical systems and which will simply come on automatically when the power fails. This type of generator is good for severe weather conditions, as it can mean not tripping around in the dark to start it when the electricity fails.

However, this is not the type of generator you want when you're hosting a party or know when you'll need to turn on the generator. Choose a manually powered type for this use so you have control over when it runs.

2. Note the power needed

A generator will usually note how many volts, amps, or watts it provides when it comes to power. You need to compare this with the power required by your appliances in the home or the appliances you'll be hooking up to the generator when you host your party. If your appliances, tools, and other items you need to connect to the generator don't list their wattage, note that volts times amps will equal watts. You can use that same formula to determine the strength of the generator you need. Don't assume that a generator that is larger in size is necessarily larger in power. Check the power ratings versus your appliances and their required power.

3. Note any clearance needed

Since a generator runs on fuel, you need to have proper clearance and ventilation for it to operate. It's never good to use a generator in a basement without windows being open, and if you're planning an event in a tent outdoors, be sure that there is an opening or some type of ventilation near where you'll keep the generator. You also need to note if it needs clearance for plugs and for working the manual controls, as you typically cannot just set a generator in a corner or propped up against a wall. Be sure you have a size that will fit the footprint of your space.

For more information, contact a business such as Electcraft Power.