How do I choose a generator?
Emergency generators come down to three things: (1) how much do they need to power (2) what type of energy source is powering them (3) expense. There are two basic types of generators: portable and standby. Portable means you can pick it up and move it around but it can only power a few small appliances. Standby generators can be souped up to cover all of your home but are affixed to one place outside.
Let’s begin with what you want to keep electricity running to. The below chart comparing generators will help you determine what kind of you’re in the market for.
| Generator Type | Used For | Features | Approximate Price | Special Considerations | Max Watts | PTW Picks |
| Inverter Generator | Camping or Tailgaiting | Noise factor: QUIETEST
Weight: LIGHTEST Portability: NO WHEELS Starts with: |
$287 | Fuel Type:
Refill Gas Tank: CANNOT BE RUN INSIDE |
||
| Home Backup Portable Generator | Just powering the fridge and freezer | Noise factor: LOUD
Weight: MEDIUM Portability: CAN HAVE WHEELS |
$400-$1,000 | Fuel Type:
Refill Gas Tank: 4-8 HRS CANNOT BE RUN INSIDE |
||
| Commercial Portable Generator | Running tools on a job site | $789-$2,000 | Fuel Type:
Refill Gas Tank: CANNOT BE RUN INSIDE |
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| Residential Standby Generator | Powering my entire home when the power goes out | Permanently installed on exterior of house | $2,500-$6,000+ | Fuel Type:
Refill Gas Tank: ALWAYS CONNECTED TO GAS LINE CANNOT BE RUN INSIDE |
Here’s a list of considerations for choosing a generator. The bottom line is you’ll still have to do math for your household. First, ask “What appliances do I want to power?” Second, go on a treasure hunt to find the wattage and peak (meaning how many watts it takes to first start up the appliance) wattage. Third, add all the wattages up to determine how many watts of output your generator must muster up. That’s your starting place. If the wattage puts you in an expense range you can’t afford, start cutting appliances from your list until you land in an affordable range.
Remember, running a generator is dependent on also storing fuel. If you cannot safely store fuel for the long-haul, begin to prepare to live life without your generator.
Features to consider when selecting a generator:
- Fuel Type: Diesel, propane, gasoline, natural gas
- Refuel Interval: 2 hours (smaller vs. larger gas tank) to Weeks
- Starter Type: Electric Starter vs. Recoil Starter
- Noise Level: Almost Quiet to Very Noisy
- Portability: Light to Heavy; Wheels vs. No Wheels
- What It Can Power: A Few Appliances to a Whole House
- Generator Expense: $200 to $5,000
- Installation: No Installation Required vs. Needing an Electrician
- Installation Expense: Nothing to $1,000’s
- Extra Parts Need: Maneual vs. Automatic Transfer Switch, Concrete Pad, Power Extension Cords
- Maintenance: Check Monthly vs. Service Quarterly
- Dangerous: Slightly to Able to Kill Someone
- Output: 1,000 to 8,000 Watts
- Outlet Configuration: AC vs. DC; 2 outlets to More
- Clean Power/Distortion: Will Damage Sensitive Electornics vs. Won’t Damage Sensitive Electronics
- Alternator: Mechanical vs. Digital
