Homeowners all over the country have generators because they can be crucial for a variety of events. They can help keep a household running during a power outage or any special situation where reliable electricity is needed. There is a large selection of generators on the market. They range from industrial to smaller home-sized generators that can run a single appliance at one time. Anyone who lives where there is extreme weather, or who has the special medical equipment, should have a generator available for use at all times. The best generator prices are currently offered by these three leading retailers: Home Depot, Lowe's and Walmart. Keep reading to learn more about finding and buying the right generator, as well as some handy tips to keep in mind.
The standard amount of power produced by the best home generators is between 3000 and 6500 watts. There are larger models capable of running the entire home, but the smaller models can work well for short periods without power.
If generators are not used properly or stored outside in extreme conditions while in use, they could prove to be fatal. However, when used and stored properly, electric generators are typically safe. Always read the instructions and follow them exactly before using the generator. Failure to follow directions can result in injury or death.
Kohler, Generac, and Briggs & Stratton are among the best home generator brands and each produce products known for delivering performance and longevity to buyers. Read some customer reviews of each to help you make the right decision for your needs.
It is important to know the household requirements and budget before making a decision. If the budget allows and the intended purpose is to run the entire household for long periods of time, then the larger models may be a better option. A portable electric generator is ideal for people who want generators for either emergency or short-term uses.
Gas shouldn't be stored in the generator unless the operation manual specifically tells the user to do so. Otherwise, gas could clog up the fuel lines and prevent the generator from working when it is needed. If gas is stored in the tank, smell the gas before using to ensure that it has not gone bad. Bad gas can harm the generator and require repairs to be made.
Generators need to be operated away from the home and away from walls that allow carbon monoxide to accumulate. Running even the best home generators in a carport can be very dangerous because carbon monoxide is odorless and can overcome people without their knowledge.
Each model is different. A smaller, portable electric generator can run safely for a few hours, but should be allowed to cool down after running for prolonged periods of time. Read the instruction manual to get a better idea of how long each model can run without stopping.
Generally, Walmart has the best generator prices, and they even do a price match on some items. Ask before making a purchase. They also offer a hassle-free return if the item does not comes as listed or is missing vital parts that prevent it from operating.