Generators

• Site safety: Generators eliminate many issues, such as the need to mess with liquid fuels and cables. Subsequently, they reduce the risks of CO poisoning, electrical shock, and fires. At the same time, they allow the user to maintain security systems, stable indoor temperatures, fridges and freezers at proper levels, and much more. 
• Convenience: In case of a blackout, most standby units will automatically react to restore power to critical systems. Most activities can continue without interruption. It also provides peace of mind if the blackout occurs during extended absences, such as holidays. 
• Value: A standby generator increases the market value of the property. Also, it can significantly pay off in preventing damages, repairs, and replacements that a blackout might cause. 

Most home standby generators are installed as permanent fixtures, powered by propane or natural gas. They will react automatically in case of an outage. In contrast, portable and inverter generators come in different sizes that allow them to be transferred around. 

Technically, portable power stations are massive electricity-storing batteries that provide fast solutions for unexpected situations.

The price of these units is at a higher end, and they require professional installation. When the power goes out, they start automatically. Home standby generators’ large capacity, typically ranging between 5,000 and 20,000 watts, allows for a substantial power supply. 

This type performs occasional self-diagnosis and informs the owner if maintenance is in order. It’s fueled by natural gas or propane.

More affordable than home standby generators, these units typically run on gasoline. They can be used anywhere in a broad range of spaces, as long as they are not enclosed - the reason is the deadly levels of carbon monoxide the portable generators can produce. It’s strongly recommended to use portable generators at least six meters from the house, far from doors and windows and any equipment such as air conditioners.

In case of rain, the generator must be shielded by a specialised canopy.

Inverters feature a complex design with a specific engine. For that reason, they are generally less affordable than traditional models with comparable output. Inverters are also silent generators - much quieter than their standard counterparts - due to the construction and the sophisticated exhaust systems. They operate quite efficiently, producing fewer emissions in the air. 

These small generators are battery-powered and can be easily recharged by plugging into an electrical outlet. The absence of a conventional engine makes these devices extremely quiet. Also, they produce no fuel or carbon monoxide emissions, which makes them suitable for indoor use.   

Due to the compact size, these containers cannot power too many appliances at once or run for an extended period.

Some portable models are available with an included solar panel as the source of power that will be collected. 

• Weather-protected control panel: As the name says, it’s designed to protect the generator’s control panel from rain, dust and debris.
• Outlets: Circuit-breaker-protected outlets enhance the convenience and safety of use.
• Fuel tanks: Spacious fuel tanks feature a larger capacity, allowing for longer uninterrupted operation times.
• Alternator: This feature produces electricity, delivering comprehensive surge wattage.
• Engine overhead valve (OHV): It’s responsible for longer life, extended run times, greater fuel efficiency and quieter operational modes.
• Muffler: This feature reduces engine noise.
• Wheels: Pneumatic wheels allow more accessible transportation over rugged terrains, such as construction sites.

The first step in choosing a generator should be identifying the fuel type. Standby generators up to 22kW are typically powered by natural gas or liquid propane. Both types need tanks large enough to operate properly.

Some generators run on diesel, yet those are larger, liquid-cooled types with a considerably higher price tag. 

The electrical power output of home standbys and other sizable generator types is rated by kilowatt (kW). The best way to determine the power rating needed for the case of blackout is to calculate the requirements of the biggest spenders, such as AC or HVAC units.

An automatic transfer switch is what triggers the generator to react automatically the exact moment a power failure is detected. Simultaneously, it disconnects the power supply coming from the broken line to prevent sudden shocks. 

The choice of the right switch depends on the amperage of the existing electrical service panel - it’s crucial to buy one that is related. On average, a standard home runs on a minimal amount of 200 amps, but that is just an orientation number. A local professional should be able to get the correct info in no time.

Today, many manufacturers are adding Wi-Fi options to the home standby generators, allowing their connection to the smart home systems. It’s also possible to install a wireless monitor on the existing standby generator without a Wi-Fi built-in.

If you need assistance to find the right generators for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.