Which Generator is Right for You? | Portable vs. Conventional
Generators are a popular choice for people who need reliable power in the event of an emergency, power outage, or when there is no access to the electrical grid. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, approximately 24 million Americans experience power outages, over the span of 9 years (2003-2012), totaling up to 658 outages.
The best kind of generators come in various types, including portable and conventional generators. Both types have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and which one you choose depends on your needs and circumstances. In this article we are going to take a closer look at each kind of generator what help you decide which kind best fits your needs
Portable Generators
Portable generators are designed to be mobile and can be moved from one location to another with ease. They are usually small in size and can be carried by one or two people. Portable generators are powered by gasoline, propane, or diesel fuel, and are capable of generating power ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 watts.
The major advantage of portable generators is their mobility. They can be taken to remote locations, campsites, or used for outdoor activities like tailgating or camping. Portable generators are also cheaper than conventional generators, and their smaller size makes them easy to store.
Conventional Generators
Conventional generators on the other hand, are usually larger and are designed to be permanently installed in a fixed location. They are powered by natural gas or propane and are capable of producing a lot of power, up to several hundred kilowatts. Conventional generators are commonly used as backup power sources for homes and businesses during power outages or emergencies. They are also used in remote locations where there is no access to the electrical grid, such as in mining sites or oil rigs.
The major advantage of conventional generators is their ability to produce a lot of power for extended periods, making them ideal for powering larger appliances, air conditioning units, and other electrical devices that require a lot of power.
Which Generator is Right for You?
So, who can benefit from each type of generator? Portable generators are ideal for people who need power on-the-go. These people include:
- Campers
- Tailgaters
- People working on work sites
- Home owners (occasional outages)
- Small business owners
The first two points are obvious choices as the people need power for recreational purposes like cookware or television sets. People who need to power small tools or appliances in remote locations are common for work sites as well as homes with large properties. They are also suitable for those who want a backup power source for their home or business but have a limited budget or storage space. Portable generators are not recommended for extended use as they require frequent refueling and can be noisy, which can be a nuisance in residential areas.
Conventional generators are ideal for:
- Homeowners (frequent power outages)
- Essential businesses
Conventional generators are ideal for people who need a reliable power source for extended periods, such as during a power outage or emergency. They are also suitable for businesses that cannot afford to lose power, such as hospitals, data centers, and manufacturing plants. Conventional generators are more expensive than portable generators, but they can produce a lot of power and can run for days or even weeks without refueling. They are also quieter than portable generators, making them suitable for use in residential areas.
Conclusion
Both portable and conventional generators have their advantages and disadvantages. Portable generators are suitable for people who need power on-the-go or want a backup power source for their home or business but have limited space and budget. Conventional generators are suitable for those who need a reliable power source for extended periods or have a higher power demand. Ultimately, the choice between portable and conventional generators depends on your needs and circumstances, and it is essential to do your research and choose the right generator for your situation.
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