Simply use the following formula:. In such a case, you would need a generator with at least 8, running watts to run your MIG welder. A label found at a refrigerator. This one consumes 7. Its total power consumption in watts would be 7. Source: Kompulsa. Conversely, if you know the wattage and want to calculate the amperage of your portable appliances you can use this formula:. State grid and standby generators operate well below this threshold.
Using them to run your laptops, flatscreen TVs, or any other kinds of modern electronics for continuous long hours can potentially damage them. There is good news — portable inverter generators do not suffer from the same problem and can be safely used to run sensitive electronics.
One problem with most of the inverters is that they are quite small. However, most inverter generators come with a parallel capability. That means you can use two inverter generators in parallel, doubling your total power output.
This is already enough to power a few large essential appliances in case of an emergency. You could also safely run sensitive portable electronic equipment. In any case, if you decide to use a portable generator, no matter if it is a conventional or inverter generator — do not operate one without a transfer switch.
Using a portable generator to power a house without a transfer switch is not the best idea. However, keep in mind that diesel generators produce harmful emissions that can be toxic if inhaled. Best for: Those who are looking for long-lasting, easy to maintain generators; those who need a generator for industrial use or as a whole-house standby.
Generators that run on natural gas tend to fall into the standby generator category, though there are some portable generators that also run on natural gas. Compared to diesel and gasoline generators, natural gas generators produce a significantly lower rate of emissions, making them a great choice for whole-home backup power.
Natural gas generators are very durable and can last for years with regular maintenance, though the initial cost of installing these systems is relatively high. Another downside to natural gas generators is that they can be vulnerable to extremely cold climates, so they may not be the best option for residents of Alaska or the northern states bordering Canada.
Best for: Eco-friendly shoppers who are concerned about pollutant emissions levels; whole-house standby generators. Whole-home solar generators are very expensive to install, though the fuel is renewable and free.
These generators are ideal for camping or keeping in the car as an emergency source of electricity. Relatively new to the market, hydrogen generators are not easy to find. Best for: Homes or businesses that require an uninterrupted power supply for security or health applications, for example ; remote areas; indoor use.
We respect your privacy. All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story. How to Choose the Right Size Generator CR's experts help you find the best model for backup power when the lights go out.
By Paul Hope. Updated August 17, Illustration: Consumer Reports. More on Generators. More From Consumer Reports. But how do you figure out which generator is right for your needs? Keep reading. A Word on Wattage. What a Generator Can Power Click on any type of generator below to see what it will run in your home.
You Experience Frequent Power Outages. You Have Occasional Outages. You Rarely Lose Power. Even so, you want a generator for some peace of mind. Safety First. Generator Tips. Paul Hope As a classically trained chef and an enthusiastic DIYer, I've always valued having the best tool for a job—whether the task at hand is dicing onions for mirepoix or hanging drywall. Sharing is Nice. Here are some rough numbers for common essentials:.
Refrigerator: watts Sump pump: to 1, watts Portable heater: 1, watts Window air conditioner: 1, watts Lights: 5 to 80 watts per bulb Computer: 60 to watts.
For a more complete list, check out our report on how to pick the right size generator for your house. You can go one of four ways. Home standby generators are installed permanently, can run on natural gas or propane, and kick on automatically during an outage. Portable and inverter generators can be moved around, and they come in different sizes. Some are better for transporting to a tailgate, while others are better kept on your property as a backup power source.
And portable power stations are large batteries that store electricity for when you need it, the only option for someone who lives in an apartment, say, and has no way to safely run a generator outdoors.
An experienced electrician can help with town or municipal permits, noise restrictions, and proper location. Some even do this via email or text, to you or your dealer. Stabilizer must be added to your fuel for prolonged storage. These models can quickly produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide. The battery required for electric start, however, might not be included.
They have more sophisticated exhaust systems, which also help tamp down noise. To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, many new generators feature a built-in sensor that triggers an automatic shutoff if CO builds up to dangerous levels in an enclosed space; some also have engines that emit less CO in the first place.
Recent test data from CR shows that this safety feature is likely to save lives. Consumer Reports recommends a portable generator only if it passes our newly expanded CO safety technology test. Even if your generator has this potentially lifesaving feature, we still advise consumers to follow our longstanding safety guidelines: Always operate a generator a minimum of 20 feet from your home, with the exhaust directed away from any windows, doors, air conditioners, and other structures.
Consider these options to make sure you get the best generator for your needs. More brands than ever offer models with this technology, including heavyweights such as Generac, Honda, and Ryobi.
In fact, we have over a dozen generators in our ratings with a CO safety shutoff. Low-CO Engine An additional safety feature that brands such as Ryobi and Echo are using to guard against risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Automatic Start When the power goes off, the generator goes on—without you lifting a finger. Electric Start Several portable models offer this push-button alternative to the hassle of pull-starting the engine.
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