TGR Staff - 02/02/2023
A portable generator is a must-have item and will ensure you benefit from the convenience of having access to power wherever you go. Whether you are someone that likes to explore the open road or you want a backup power source for use at home or work, a portable power station is an ideal solution.
What is a Portable Generator?
A generator can be a lifesaver in a power outage, providing electricity while you are off the grid. As their name suggests, portable generators are a compact version of a standard generator and have power outlets that can be used both at home and on the go.Uses for a Portable Generator
Due to their compact nature, portable generators are helpful in various situations.
Portable Generators for RVs
Figures from the RV Industry Association (RVIA) show that RV ownership has vastly grown in recent years. More than 11 million households in the United States now own an RV. It is easy to see why owning an RV is so appealing. But, to truly enjoy all the comforts of home when traveling in your RV, you need a power source.
While many campgrounds offer electrical hookups for RVs, this limits you to only using power when you are at the campground. Relying on electrical hookups also limits where you can pitch up with your RV. If you want to enjoy the true freedom of RV ownership and to be able to explore anywhere you choose, a portable power source is needed.
A portable generator is the perfect solution and will provide you with power everywhere you go. So, whether you want to charge your cellphone, put some cool beers in the refrigerator, or make yourself your morning cup of coffee, your portable generator will allow you to do this.
Portable Generators for Use at Home
Being equipped for a home emergency is always a good idea, such as a power cut, is always a good idea. According to Climate Central, weather-related power outages increased by 78 percent between 2011 and 2121. This vast uptick in the number of power outages is a reminder of the importance of being prepared in case a power cut occurs.
You will be able to use your portable generator for power outage situations at home. This will ensure that you can still run essential appliances and keep the lights on to make your family more comfortable until normal power returns.
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Features to Look for When Buying a Portable Generator
Being prepared for an emergency situation, whether you are at home or on the road, is vital, and owning your own portable power station will make this possible. But the big question is, how do you choose the best portable generator? Read on to find out what to look for when choosing a portable generator and how to find the best one to suit your needs.
Power Source
Considering the power source that you want to use for your portable generator is a crucial decision. Many portable generators are run on gasoline or propane, but these can be noisy to run and are not the best choice if you want to be environmentally friendly. Choosing a portable generator that runs on a rechargeable battery or one that can use solar power are a couple of much quieter and more eco-friendly alternatives to consider.
Physical Size
When you are shopping around for a portable generator, considering the physical size of the unit is crucial. The physical size and weight are especially important if you plan to use the generator when away from home on camping trips or other outdoor adventures. If you need to fit your generator in your RV or carry it a significant distance at a campsite, you certainly don’t want it to be too heavy. So thinking about the weight and size of your portable generator is essential to ensure it is convenient and practical for you to use. Don’t forget to check if the generator has carry handles, as this will make it much easier for you to lift and transport.
Wattage Requirements
As well as considering the physical size of the portable power station, you also need to think about the size of the generator in terms of wattage. Ensuring that the generator has the capacity to handle the running watts and starting watts that you need is vital. To determine how much wattage you need, you will need to consider what appliances you plan to power using your generator. Checking the wattage requirements of each item you intend to use with the generator and adding these together will give you an idea of the size of the generator that you need to purchase.
Outlets
When choosing a portable generator, it is important to be aware that different models will offer different power outlets. So, before you make your final choice, it is crucial to consider how many power outlets you will need and what type.
Thinking about the appliances you definitely want to use with the generator and the outlets that they require is essential. Do you want a generator solely with AC outlets, or do you also have a DC connector that requires a DC outlet? Some portable generators now have USB outlets, too, so this is another option to consider when making your choice.
Run-Time and Charging Time
The main aim of having a portable generator is to gain a reliable, convenient power source when you cannot connect to the grid. So, you need to be sure that the generator you choose can provide this. With this in mind, it is vital to check how long the generator will run once it is fully charged. Having a generator that provides very little power is not much help at all, especially in the middle of a power outage. If you choose a generator that runs on battery or solar power, you also need to consider how long it takes to recharge so that it is ready to use when needed.
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