Generac Portable Generator Facts

Here are some Generac portable generator facts.  Before you decide on a portable unit, you may want to read this page. 

Circuit breakers provide overload protection Manual and pull start Hour meter to track maintenance requirements Compact design provides unparalleled power-to-weight ratio Low-oil shutdown detects low oil levels to prevent engine damage Low-tone mufflers for quieter operation Heavy-duty hardened steel tube cradle gives extra strength and durability Fold down handles and never-flat wheels for portability Fuel gauge incorporated for at a glance fuel monitoring FHA approved Outlet covers protect control panel from the elements

This is a handy worksheet that helps you to calculate you wattage needs according to what you'll be using the Generac portable generator for.
Wattage Worksheet

Generac Portable Generator Q & A's

• Where is the engine made?   The engines used on the Generac XP and XG Series of portables are manufactured at Generac's factory in Whitewater, WI. The engines are industrial grade engines designed to provide the ultra-quiet, longer-lasting performance required of portable generators. They also run 30-50 degrees cooler, are 5% more fuel-efficient and reduce oil consumption by 25%.

• What is the difference between rated watts and maximum (surge) watts?  Rated watts describe the amount of power the portable generator can produce continuously. Maximum wattage is the power that the generator can produce for short periods of time. Motor starting is a good example of maximum wattage requirements.

• Can it be used it inclement weather?  Generators can be used during a wide variety of weather temperatures, but should be protected from the elements when not in use to prevent shorting and rusting. NEVER run a generator indoors.

• Can I vent the exhaust out of an enclosed area?  No. Never run the generator in the home or an enclosed area. Portable generators are designed to run outside where there is plenty of ventilation.

• Should I drain the fuel when storing the Generac portable generator for over 30 days?  Yes. It is highly recommended that you drain the fuel from the tank and run the carburetor dry. OHVI engines meet EPA and CARB regulations and are less tolerant of stale fuel.

• Does the portable generator need to be grounded?  Yes. For safety, the generator must be properly grounded. If it’s not grounded, you run the risk of electrocution. We strongly recommend that you check and adhere to all applicable federal, state and local regulations relating to grounding.

• How often should I perform routine maintenance?  The maintenance schedule for your portable generator is in the owner’s manual and some models are equipped with built-in maintenance reminders on the control panel.

• What type of gasoline should I use?  Use clean, fresh unleaded gasoline with a minimum 85 octane rating.

• What type of oil is recommended?  Above 40°F, use SAE 30. Below 40°F and down to 10°F, use 10W-30. Below 10°F, use synthetic 5W-30. Oil should be changed after the first 8 hours of operation and every 200 hours of run time thereafter.

What Do I Ask A Generator Distributor?

A #generator distributor is usually an electrical contractor, endorsed by the generator manufacturer, with the proper experience to make the electrical connections and install the transfer switch.

When looking for a generator distributor here a few things to keep in mind. If you have a generator brand name in mind, you can contact the manufacturer for a dealer in your area.  Here are links to several of the top brands in the business.  The link takes you to the "find a dealer" page where you'll type in your zip code to be connected with a distributor.  Generac Kohler Mikbank GE

Once you receive your referral from the manufacturer to the dealer, your dealer will want to set up a convenient time to visit your home and properly assess your needs.  He will likely have the technology to give you a free quote right there.  You shouldn't have to wait long.  The entire process takes up to an hour.  Always get your estimate in writing!  This is especially necessary if you're getting more than one estimate.  It's very difficult to compare apples to apples if you don't have solid information.

• Ask your distributor if he provides financing.  This can be an easy way to protect your home while making affordable payments every month.   Financing is provided to you as a courtesy from your dealer.  The dealer is charged a percentage of the total project by the financing bank. Right now Generac offers several payment plans through dealers. They are......

              *NO INTEREST IF PAID IN FULL WITHIN 12 MONTHS
              *Reduced 9.99% APR and fixed monthly payments equal to 1.25% of purchase amount until paid in full.
              *Reduced 7.99% APR and fixed monthly payments equal to 2.50% of promo purchase amount until paid in full.
              *Reduced 5.99% APR and fixed monthly payments equal to 3.00% of promo purchase amount until paid in full.

• Hopefully you'll not need to repair your standby generator for a very long time.  But just in case, check to make sure your dealer is also certified to repair the generator you plan to install.  Many manufacturers will not warrant the product if service is not performed by a certified technician.  

• The generator distributor typically sets the generator pad and arranges for the gas hookup, but double check to make sure.  If you purchased the unit yourself and didn't make the purchase through the distributor, the leg work may be up to you.  

• Get on your distributor's reminder list.  It's easy to get very busy and forget to give your standby unit the love it needs.  Some distributors will send you a post card or give you a call when it's time for general maintenance.

• Sometimes the manufacturer offers free add on services to encourage a purchase.  Generac has been known to offer a free remote service called Mobile Link, which enables you to monitor the generator from a remote location.  Extended warranties are also offered sometimes.  It never hurts to ask what's available!

• Make sure you understand the product thoroughly.  Ask to see the warranty information and spec sheet if necessary.  These are readily available online if you'd rather search for it yourself.  Don't be afraid to ask questions!  If you've got everything in writing, it will be much easier to deal with any issues that may pop up after the installation.

• Ask for references.  Some dealers may even refer you to a previous client if you ask.  If you're extra curious, you may even be able to go check out the actual installation and talk to the owner.

• Once your installation is complete, ask for the owners manual.  Sometimes the manual gets lost in the shuffle of unpackaging and installing.  You can usually find them online, but you can save yourself the hassle if you remember to ask before all the packaging is thrown away. 

• Register your product.  If it's the Generac brand you can register here.  You'll need to have the serial number handy.

Product Registration Benefits

• Receive up-to-date product information
• Ensures accurate warranty coverage
• Proof-of-purchase in the event of an insurance loss sure as fire, flood or theft
• Easy access to Generac's full online help.

Generator Servicing Recommendations

Generator servicing recommendations can be found in your owners manual. Simple maintenance is required. All generators require periodic oil and filter changes to ensure maximum performance for years of reliable service. Preventative maintenance kits are available and Integra Electric Solutions offers annual maintenance contracts for a worry-free ownership experience. Refer to the owner’s manual for routine maintenance procedures and schedules. Your unit needs to be serviced twice a year even if you haven't used it.  A good time to mark your calendar is in the spring and fall.  Keeping to a regular schedule will help your generator stay in tip top condition for when you really need it. You don't want to be thinking about maintenance when you're relying on it for backup. Usually by then it's too late!  #GeneratorServicing by a professional usually takes around two hours.  When we perform maintenance it involves a thorough examination of the unit. We run through a list of item to check to make sure it will function properly at a moments notice.  A few of the items we  inspect are the battery, belts, transfer switch and spark plugs.  We also change the oil.

What type of oil should I use?

An SAE rated high detergent oil that meets API Service Class SF requirements for gasoline engines, similar to your car. Refer to your owner’s manual for details.  If you've misplaced your owners manual, you can usually replace it fairly easily by visiting the manufacturer's website.  If you own a Generac, you can search for your manual here by entering the model number or serial number.

Who Should Perform Generator Servicing?

You can do the regular maintenance yourself, but most people prefer to call an Authorized/Certified Service Dealer in order to satisfy the warranty. You'll want to check your individual warranty to see what is generator servicing is required for the warranty to stay in effect.   This is the first paragraph of Generac's 5 year limited warranty.

"For a period of five (5) years from successful activation of the unit, Generac Power Systems, Inc. (Generac) warrants that its standby generator will be
free from defects in material and workmanship for the items and period set forth below. Generac will, at its option, repair or replace any part(s) which,
upon examination, inspection and testing by Generac or an Authorized/Certified Generac Service Dealer, is found to be defective. Any equipment that
the purchaser/owner claims to be defective must be examined by the nearest Authorized/Certified Generac Service Dealer. This warranty applies only to
Generac emergency automatic standby generators used in "Standby" applications as Generac has defined Standby. Scheduled Maintenance, as outlined by
the generator owner’s manual, is required. This Scheduled Maintenance should be performed by an Authorized/Certified Generac Service Dealer. This will
verify service has been performed on the unit throughout the warranty period."

What is a Generator Transfer Switch?

A generator transfer switch switches the electric power from the utility supply to the generator.

Generator Transfer Switch Types

Automatic Transfer Switch

Manual Transfer Switch

When planning your generator installation you can choose an automatic transfer switch or a manual transfer switch.
AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCH - Safely disconnects the utility line and simultaneously connects a new power line from the generator.  Power is restored within seconds.
MANUAL TRANSFER SWITCH - This switch is installed right beside your electric panel and is connected to the circuits you want to run during a power outage.  When the power goes out, you'll need to take your portable generator out of storage and connect a power cord between it and the transfer switch.
Manual switches are generally for portable #Generators.  They are somewhat less expensive than the automatic switches and they can be used with permanent generators.  However, you'll have to go outside during inclement weather and manually flip the switch.  This doesn't make a whole lot of sense. The purpose of a permanent standby generator is the convenience of having the generator automatically sense the blackout.  Another disadvantage is that, depending on which circuits you've backed up, you'll have to guess when the power is restored.  You can watch the neighbors lights or a certain circuit in your home for your cue, but that's a pain.  The manual option also means that someone will have to be home to turn the switch on and off.  If you're on vacation, you're out of luck!

This is Generac's Smart Switch.  It is engineered with Digital Power Management technology.  This means you are able to use a smaller generator by using something called smart load management. If it's unlikely you'll turn on every appliance at the same time, a smaller unit with a smart power management generator transfer switch can be used.  This is a less expensive way to backup your entire house.  Here's how it works... To eliminate overload, non essential circuits are shut off when the standby unit approaches maximum capacity.  Then they are cycled back on when essential circuits are satisfied. Air conditioners, clothes dryers and hot tubs are considered non-essential circuits.

Per the National Electrical Code (NEC), all transfer switches must have a three-position “LINE-OFF-GENERATOR” or “ON-OFF-ON” switch to keep power from accidentally back feeding. The three-position switch ensures that the switch goes through the off position when traveling from the generator position to the line position, fully disconnecting the unit every time before the main utility switch is turned on.

What is a Guardian Generator?

This Guardian generator is a model within Generac's Series.  This is an 8KW and can be purchased for a little over $2000.  This price doesn't include installation.  When figuring what size of generator you need, here's what you need to consider.  An 8KW generator like the one above will power 8000 kilowatts.  (1 kilowatt=1000 watts) so this generator would be able to power 80 100 watt light bulbs. Many appliances are labeled with amps or current draw instead of watts.  In this case you can do a simple calculation to convert the amps to watts here. Although this seems simple enough, there's one more bit of information you need to know.
It's called LRA (locked rotar current)  It is usually found on the motor nameplate.  It means the motor is not turning and is the amount of amps required to start it. A motor draws the most current right when it is switched on. This is much greater than the current needed to keep the motor running which is called "Full Load Amps" or "Running Amps."  So back to the 8KW Guardian generator.  It may not run an appliance with a current calculation of 8,000 watts.  This is because the current required to start the motor may be much higher.  If you multiply this by several appliances, you can start to see the complications it can cause.  It's best to consult an electrician for the proper generator sizing for your needs.

BROCHURE

Generac OHVI® Engine
Your Guardian generator might have to get you through days—or weeks—without utility power. Its OHVI® engine, specifically designed for generator use, provides the reliability to power through the most severe outages.

Evolution™ Controller
The next generation of intuitive controllers featuring a multilingual, two-line LCD text display with color-coded, backlit buttons.  

Certified for 18" Installation to the Home
Third-party certified to NFPA standards to be installed as close as 18” from the home’s exterior wall, provided it is located away from doors, windows, and fresh-air intakes, and unless otherwise directed by local codes.

Easy Installation
With an intelligent pre-wired transfer switch, re-engineered connection points, and composite mounting pad that eliminates the need for a poured concrete base (unless specified by local codes), the Guardian generator is easy to install.

Rated for Operation in Areas with Low Natural Gas Pressure
In areas with low natural gas pressure, the Guardian Series 8 kW generator can operate on natural gas pressures of only 3.5” of water column—significantly lower than published numbers for competitive standby generator systems.

All-Weather Steel Enclosure
Power Armor finish helps make the sturdy, Galvanneal steel enclosure perfect for all weather confitions. It’s also able to withstand 150 mph winds. Tool-less Fuel Conversion
Switch between natural gas and LP fuel in the field in a few seconds, without the need for any tools.

True Power™ Technology
Best-in-class power quality with less than 5% total harmonic distortion means clean, smooth operation of your sensitive electronics and appliances.

Mobile Link™ Compatible
Take advantage of Generac’s Mobile Link cellular remote monitoring system and check on your generator’s status using your computer, tablet or smartphone, even when you are away. Sold separately.

This Guardian generator is a model within Generac's Series.  This is an 8KW and can be purchased for a little over $2000.  This price doesn't include installation.  When figuring what size of generator you need, here's what you need to consider.  An 8KW generator like the one above will power 8000 kilowatts.  (1 kilowatt=1000 watts) so this generator would be able to power 80 100 watt light bulbs. Many appliances are labeled with amps or current draw instead of watts.  In this case you can do a simple calculation to convert the amps to watts here. Although this seems simple enough, there's one more bit of information you need to know.
It's called LRA (locked rotar current)  It is usually found on the motor nameplate.  It means the motor is not turning and is the amount of amps required to start it. A motor draws the most current right when it is switched on. This is much greater than the current needed to keep the motor running which is called "Full Load Amps" or "Running Amps."  So back to the 8KW Guardian generator.  It may not run an appliance with a current calculation of 8,000 watts.  This is because the current required to start the motor may be much higher.  If you multiply this by several appliances, you can start to see the complications it can cause.  It's best to consult an electrician for the proper generator sizing for your needs.
- See more at: http://www.magictolight.com/guardian_generator.html#sthash.WJ1rLzpw.dpufThis Guardian generator is a model within Generac's Series.  This is an 8KW and can be purchased for a little over $2000.  This price doesn't include installation.  When figuring what size of generator you need, here's what you need to consider.  An 8KW generator like the one above will power 8000 kilowatts.  (1 kilowatt=1000 watts) so this generator would be able to power 80 100 watt light bulbs. Many appliances are labeled with amps or current draw instead of watts.  In this case you can do a simple calculation to convert the amps to watts here. Although this seems simple enough, there's one more bit of information you need to know.
It's called LRA (locked rotar current)  It is usually found on the motor nameplate.  It means the motor is not turning and is the amount of amps required to start it. A motor draws the most current right when it is switched on. This is much greater than the current needed to keep the motor running which is called "Full Load Amps" or "Running Amps."  So back to the 8KW Guardian generator.  It may not run an appliance with a current calculation of 8,000 watts.  This is because the current required to start the motor may be much higher.  If you multiply this by several appliances, you can start to see the complications it can cause.  It's best to consult an electrician for the proper generator sizing for your needs.

This Guardian generator is a model within Generac's Series.  This is an 8KW and can be purchased for a little over $2000.  This price doesn't include installation.  When figuring what size of generator you need, here's what you need to consider.  An 8KW generator like the one above will power 8000 kilowatts.  (1 kilowatt=1000 watts) so this generator would be able to power 80 100 watt light bulbs. Many appliances are labeled with amps or current draw instead of watts.  In this case you can do a simple calculation to convert the amps to watts here. Although this seems simple enough, there's one more bit of information you need to know.
It's called LRA (locked rotar current)  It is usually found on the motor nameplate.  It means the motor is not turning and is the amount of amps required to start it. A motor draws the most current right when it is switched on. This is much greater than the current needed to keep the motor running which is called "Full Load Amps" or "Running Amps."  So back to the 8KW Guardian generator.  It may not run an appliance with a current calculation of 8,000 watts.  This is because the current required to start the motor may be much higher.  If you multiply this by several appliances, you can start to see the complications it can cause.  It's best to consult an electrician for the proper generator sizing for your needs.
- See more at: http://www.magictolight.com/guardian_generator.html#sthash.WJ1rLzpw.dpuf

This Guardian generator is a model within Generac's Series.  This is an 8KW and can be purchased for a little over $2000.  This price doesn't include installation.  When figuring what size of generator you need, here's what you need to consider.  An 8KW generator like the one above will power 8000 kilowatts.  (1 kilowatt=1000 watts) so this generator would be able to power 80 100 watt light bulbs. Many appliances are labeled with amps or current draw instead of watts.  In this case you can do a simple calculation to convert the amps to watts here. Although this seems simple enough, there's one more bit of information you need to know.
It's called LRA (locked rotar current)  It is usually found on the motor nameplate.  It means the motor is not turning and is the amount of amps required to start it. A motor draws the most current right when it is switched on. This is much greater than the current needed to keep the motor running which is called "Full Load Amps" or "Running Amps."  So back to the 8KW Guardian generator.  It may not run an appliance with a current calculation of 8,000 watts.  This is because the current required to start the motor may be much higher.  If you multiply this by several appliances, you can start to see the complications it can cause.  It's best to consult an electrician for the proper generator sizing for your needs.
- See more at: http://www.magictolight.com/guardian_generator.html#sthash.WJ1rLzpw.dpuf

Cost of Portable Generator Compared to Standby Generator

COMPARISON OF CATEGORIES BETWEEN PORTABLE AND STATIONARY GENERATORS FOR HOME STANDBY USE
Category	Typical	Portable	Stationary	Winner
		6,000 Watts	12,000 Watts	Stationary
Models	Portable vs Residential	Winco WC6000HE	Onan RS12000	Onan RS12000
Time of Need	Usually at night, bad weather	Must be protected from rain.	In protected cabinet.	Stationary
Powers	% of House	50%	100%	Stationary
Largest Single Load	Due to plug restrictions	20 Amps	100 Amps	Stationaryhttp://www.magictolight.com/generator_service_and_installation.html
Remote Control/Start	Automatic Preferred	No Auto-start	Auto-start Standard	Stationary
Auto Choking	Automatic Preferred	No Auto-choke	Auto-Choke Standard	Stationary
Move In/Out	Permanent Desirable	Required unless shelter	Move not required	Stationary
Setup or Connecting	Permanent Desirable	Required unless shelter	Always Connected	Stationary
Transfer of Power	Automatic Preferred	Manual Only	Automatic	Stationary. Automatic
Unattended Operation	Unattended desirable	Short Periods Only	Runs Unattended	Stationary
Operation by Family	Desirable	Usually difficult	Automatic Operation	Stationary
Weather Protection	Desirable	Requires shelter or move out/in	Enclosure Standard	Stationary
Security	Desirable	Easy to steal if left out	Anchored to ground	Stationary
Security During Operation	Highly Desirable	Must go outside during storm to start and refuel	Runs Automatically	Stationary
Security Storage	Highly Desirable	Must keep inside and drain fuel	Secure Outside	Stationary
Fuel Tank Type	Strongest Preferred	Usually plastic	Usually steel	Stationary
Fuel Tank Size	Larger better than smaller	4.5 gallons	50-100 gallons	Stationary
Run Time per Tank	Longer is better	at 1/2 load 11.2 hours at full load 5 hours	200 gallon tank lasts 40 hours	Stationary
Refueling	Automatic Preferred	Every 5-11 hours @ 1/2 load	Every 40 hours	Stationary
Storage of Fuel	Desirable, if safe	Fuel cans outside, not inside	In Tank Outside	Stationary
Fuel Economy	@ Full Load	Poor	Excellent	Stationary
Refueling System	Automatic Preferred	By hand with cans, stop generator	By Fuel Supplier	Stationary
Layout	Simple is Preferred	See Diagrams	See Diagrams	Stationary
Number of Parts	Smallest number preferred	4, generator, switch, outlet, cord	2, generator & switch	Stationary
Generator Cost	Lower is better than higher	$1,918	$4,202	Stationary
Transfer Switch Cost	Lower is better than higher	Gen-Tran 200600, Manual, $235	Onan Indoor, 100 Amp, Automatic, $670	Portable, Manual
Other Parts	Outlet box, cords, plug	Gen-Tran $125	Fuel Tank, $200	Stationary
Estimated Install Labor (electrician)	Lower is better than higher	$500	$900	Stationary
Total Initial Cost	Lower is better than higher	$2,778.00	$5,972, ($3,194 more)	Portable
Cost Per Hour to Run @ 1/2 Load	Lower is better than higher	0.53 gallons per hour or $1.50 hr	54 cu.ft/hr, < $1.00 hour	Stationary
Estimated Life Hours	Longer is better than shorter	2,000	10,000	Stationary
Years of Life	Longer is better than shorter	555	15	Stationary
Cost per year life years	Lower is better than higher	$574	$398	Stationary
Noise	Lower is better than higher	79 db(A)	<70 db(A)	Stationary
Oil Capacity	Larger better than smaller	1 Quart	3 quarts	Stationary
Adds to value of home?	According to RE appraiser	No	Yes 50% Minimum	Stationary
Need Permit?	According to City of Santa Rosa in California	No	Yes, $25	Portable

Even though the Portable is cheaper overall, by almost double in the 6,000 watt size and only $3,194 more in the 12,000 watt size; you have to ask yourself, is it worth the savings. I reality you only get 50 % of the power off a portable because you can only get the output from one plug which is 1/2 of the #Generators capacity unless there is a full power plug.

If you, (or your family members if you are out of town, sick or injured),  must struggle one time to haul the portable out, plug it in and refuel it in foul weather at night every 4-11 hours, is it worth the difference in savings.

Read the list over a few times and you should conclude that unless you love to get cold and wet, stay up late and play survivor, your better off to have an installed system that is totally automatic.

REMEMBER: Cost is only one factor. Carefully consider the safety, security, setup and storage issues shown on the chart.

Information from  Generator Joe

Portable Generator VS. Standby Generator Which is the Best Solution?

Power Options

The best backup power system for you is defined by how much interaction you want with the system and by your budget.

 Permanently Installed Generator $2000-$6000

Pros

* Systems fueled by natural gas or propane are safe and convenient, and the most advanced forms require little user interaction. These are equipped with integrated controls and automatic transfer switching and generate power automatically when the grid goes down. Also, they are self-monitoring and run at regular intervals. Other systems are diesel- or gasoline-engine driven, though these are best suited for rural areas because of noise concerns.

Cons

* Expensive. * Complex installation.

 Portable Gas-Engine Generator | $300-$2500

Portable Generator

Pros	* The least expensive and simplest engine-driven system; it can be used with extension cords leading to appliances or with a single cord to a transfer switch.
Cons  Article by Popular Mechanics	* Requires maximum user interaction because it must be taken outside to a safe area, connected and started. * Generator must be shut off and allowed to cool before refueling. * Risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from engine.

Blackouts needn't lead to spoiled food and nights by flashlight. Consumer Reports' generator tests show that you can start powering a houseful of lights and appliances for less than $700. But as we found, some important components cost extra. We focused on moderately priced portable and stationary models that deliver 5,000 to 7,000 watts, enough for most needs. But we also tested some larger models that deliver more power.

 Portables cost the least and can be stored in a garage or shed when you don't need them. A lower-priced model powered refrigerators, well pumps, and other home gear almost as well as a more expensive top-scorer. Stationary models install permanently outside your home and start automatically when needed. And because they run on propane or natural gas instead of gasoline, they offer extended or unlimited run time. Buying a generator is just the beginning. Many models don't come with parts that you'd think would be included with the price. And some could let you down when you need them most or put an added load on appliances.

 Here are the details. Reliability matters #Generators are typically sold by wattage. How much they put out determines not only how many lights and appliances you can run at once but how well they run. For example, a refrigerator often requires about 600 watts, a portable heater 1,500 watts, a window air conditioner 1,000 watts, and lights 60 to 200 watts. Our wattage calculator provides an average wattage rating for most appliances and devices to help you to tally your needs. "Batteries not included" applies. Several portables offer electric starting. But the battery required for that feature usually costs an extra $50. And if you think all portables have wheels, think again: They were a $150 option on one model we tested. Some slipped when demand surged. All of the tested generators met their basic wattage claims.

Manufacturers also make higher surge-wattage claims for the extra power needed when refrigerators, air conditioners, and pumps cycle on. Subpar surge wattage lowered the power-delivery scores of some models in our tests. Some can overheat appliances. Our power-quality test judges the ability to deliver the 120 volts that home circuits usually need. Most met that challenge although one model was more than 10 volts shy under a heavy load and voltage from another was also low--and slightly uneven. Both conditions make motorized appliances and some electronics run hotter. How to choose Decide what you really need to power. If that includes a central air conditioner or an electric dryer or oven, you'll need a larger generator. Here's what else to keep in mind: Count on a transfer switch. It costs about $500 to $900 installed and connects a portable generator to your home's circuit box as with a stationary model. In addition to eliminating the risk and hassle of extension cords, the switch protects the generator and appliances from damage when grid power returns and keeps the generator from endangering technicians working on the power lines.

Think about the fuel. Most portables use roughly 8 to 22 gallons of gasoline a day, compared with four to eight 20-pound tanks of propane for #PortableGenerator models. (A 250-gallon tank for stationary units can run 8 to 15 days.) Buying and storing lots of fuel before a storm can be unwieldy, although you can pour unused gasoline into your car's gas tank. Look for smart features. Most of the portable generators in our tests turn themselves off when engine oil is low. And the fuel shutoff on all tested gasoline models lets you run the engine dry to draw gas out of the fuel system to keep it from fouling parts if it degrades during storage. Play it safe Powering too many appliances will trip the generator's circuit breakers, causing power loss. Be sure what you're powering is within the generator's rated wattage; most transfer switches make that easier by showing wattage levels. And protect against carbon monoxide, which kills about 86 people each year--and sends thousands more to the emergency room. Run any generator outdoors and away from the house, far from doors, windows, and anywhere else air enters the house. Never run it in a basement or garage; even with the garage door open, it can endanger people inside the house.
Information by Consumer Reports