7 Specifications You Should Look for When Buying a Home Generator

20 March 2019

Pretty much everyone has wished they had a backup home generator at one time or another. Whether you want a generator just so you won’t be left in the dark during a power failure or you need to know your family will be safe from the cold should a prolonged power outage happen during the dead of winter, buying a home generator requires some careful thought.

Past the obvious choices of cost and reliability, there are a number of factors you should carefully consider before buying a home generator, such as price, your expected power needs, installation requirements, and maintenance issues.

The variety of options and requirements can turn a seemingly simple purchase into a complex problem if you don’t know what you need. Here are seven specifications you should look for when buying a home generator:

Contents

1 Specifications You Need To Look For Home Generator
2 1. Power Requirements:
3 2. Fuel Type:
4 3. Installation:
5 4. Placement:
6 5. Options:
7 6. Maintenance:
8 7. Warranty:

Specifications You Need To Look For Home Generator

There are several factors you need to look at while seeking a home generator. Work out the plans that can work well for you.

1. Power Requirements:

Power needs are often dictated by your budget, as the more powerful a generator is the more it will, typically, cost. However, initial determining factors for calculating the size of the generator can be addressed with this query: During an electricity failure, does the generator need to power the entire house, or just handle emergency needs?

When considering a generator that is able to handle the electrical demands of all the appliances in your home, factors such as peak demand during the months you use the most electricity is a deciding factor. Common generator voltages are 120/240 volts. If you are unsure, your electrician can provide this information.

If you live in the south, where the temperatures are moderate throughout the winter, you will not need as powerful a generator as if you live in the far north where temperatures can be deadly in the winter months. A powerful home generator can make things easier for you.

On the other hand, when calculating needs for backup supply, only the requirements of the reserve need to be calculated.

In the north, this should include the furnace and a couple of lights. In the south, a smaller unit that can power a few lights and the refrigerator is probably adequate.

For emergency loads, you may need to have an electrician install a dedicated emergency circuit from the main service panel to a distinct backup panel. However, this is typically up to the homeowner’s liking for a whole-house system.

2. Fuel Type:

While it might seem convenient, gasoline is usually an inferior fuel choice for emergency generators as it tends to go bad quite quickly, especially gasoline with ethanol. Better choices include propane, natural gas, and diesel fuel. Powerful home generator can make things easier and effective for you.

Prices can be a major contention when choosing between a natural gas generator, or propane and diesel since the price of the generator will depend on the amount of fuel the generator uses. The accessibility of the form of fuel is an additional important element.

Propane and diesel fuel generators will have to be refilled during extended outages, whereas the utility company provides a continual source of natural gas. Local laws may dictate what type of fuel is available in your area. For example, the fuel element, propane is not usually permissible to be used within the limits of the city

3. Installation:

Depending on the type of unit, you may need to hire a licensed electrician to install the generator. While smaller portable units simply require you plug a power cord directly into the unit, larger whole-house generators will need to be hardwired into your electrical system. Additionally, you will probably have to hire an authorized and insured plumber if you will be connecting the generator to a natural-gas fuel source.

However, for simple emergency situations, a portable unit like gasoline-powered online Honda generators can provide up to 10,000 watts of emergency power and be stored in your garage, basement or on your porch. Some of the larger generator companies have their own installation staff or may subcontract the work.

However, in some areas, depending on local codes, a homeowner with the proper skills may be able to perform their own installation. The important consideration is to use a trustworthy firm with a proven record of accomplishment of installing standby power-generator systems.

4. Placement:

Where your generator will be located is an important consideration. The home generator should be installed as close to the fuel supply and service panel as possible.

The generator must also be positioned where it can be easily reached for servicing. This is especially important if the unit is not being powered by natural gas, as you will have to fill the tank periodically.

Additionally, it must be located at a comfortable distance from the ground to prevent any form of water from coming close or entering the unit in case of flooding.

Outdoor installations may be required to be a secure distance from flammable structures to meet codes, as well as for safety in the absence of any local requirements.

Indoor installations should adhere to norms and rules regarding exhaust, closeness to flammable materials, fuel-supply, and ventilation.

Even if local codes don’t require it, the power back up should be placed in some type of enclosure to protect it from the elements and possible vandalism.

Consider if there are Outdoor Noise Regulation imposed by the local Council or government body for installing the home generator outdoors.

Some municipalities require the noise level of a generator is restricted to a specified decibel level at the property line closest to the unit. If a noise ordinance exists, the required level of sound will dictate the kind of power generator that will be used. Quite a few residential generators are supplied with sound deadening enclosure.

5. Options:

Accessory options can vary widely, depending on the home generator make and model. Some systems will offer a remote panel that can be installed in a convenient spot inside your home that will have controls and displays to allow you to control and monitor your system without having to go outside. Larger whole-house systems will typically have an automatic transfer switch that will switch the generator on when a power disruption is detected and may be an option on some smaller units.

6. Maintenance:

Like any piece of mechanical equipment, and home generators require regular and proper maintenance to ensure it will do the job you bought it to do when the time comes. Unfortunately, because it isn’t typically used on a regular base, maintenance often isn’t thought about, until the generator won’t start during a power outage.

Some companies will include routine maintenance in the cost of the unit or you may be able to purchase a separate maintenance contract. If you are a do-it-yourselfer you can perform maintenance on your generator yourself, just be sure it won’t void the warranty.

7. Warranty:

The typical warranty for residential generators usually varies from one to five year, based on the manufacturer and model. Be sure to study the warranty coverage, including the duration, and what is and what is not covered. Many companies will offer an extended warranty for an added fee.

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Featured Image: generatorpalace.com

Ariana Smith

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

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Small Business, Big Sustainability: Navigating The Future Of Energy And Water Management

Small businesses have always faced challenges when it comes to managing their energy and water consumption.However, with the increasing pressure to reduce our carbon footprint and the rising costs of utilities, it has become more important than ever for small businesses to take control of their energy and water usage.In this article, we will discuss the future of energy and water management for small businesses and what steps can be taken to reduce costs and become more sustainable.Measure your usageThe first step in effective energy and water management for small businesses is to measure usage. This is done by installing smart meters, which provide real-time data on energy and water consumption.A half hourly meter will automatically split your energy consumption, with no manual reading required. This data can be used to identify patterns and trends in usage, which can help small businesses make informed decisions about how to reduce their consumption.Smart technologyThe future of energy and water management for small businesses lies in the use of smart technology. Smart technology, such as IoT (Internet of Things) devices, can be used to automate and optimize energy and water usage.For example, smart thermostats can adjust temperature settings based on occupancy patterns, and smart lighting can adjust brightness levels based on natural light levels. These devices can be controlled remotely, which means small business owners can monitor and adjust usage even when they are not on-site.Related: Best Paying Jobs In EnergyRenewable energyRenewable energy sources will also play a key role in the future of energy and water management for small businesses. Small businesses can install solar panels, wind turbines, or hydroelectric generators to generate their own energy.These systems can be connected to the grid, which means any excess energy generated can be sold back to the utility company. Renewable energy sources are becoming more affordable and accessible, which means small businesses can now invest in them without breaking the bank.Water managementWater management is another important aspect of energy and water management for small businesses. Small businesses can install low-flow fixtures and toilets, which can reduce water consumption by up to 30%. Water-efficient appliances, such as dishwashers as well as washing machines, can also be used to reduce water usage.Small businesses can also install rainwater harvesting systems, which collect rainwater from rooftops and store it for later use. This water can be used for irrigation, flushing toilets, or even drinking if properly treated.Water recycling systemsIn addition to these measures, small businesses can also implement water recycling systems. Greywater, which is wastewater from sinks, washing machines, and showers, can be reused as well as treated for non-potable uses, including irrigation or flushing toilets. Blackwater, which is wastewater from toilets, can also be treated and reused, although this requires more advanced treatment systems.Government incentivesSmall businesses can also take advantage of government incentives and programs to reduce their energy and water usage. For example, there are tax credits available for businesses that install renewable energy systems or energy-efficient appliances. Some utility companies also offer rebates for businesses that implement energy and water-saving measures.The future of energy and water management for small businesses lies in the use of smart technology, renewable energy sources, and water-saving measures. Small businesses can use smart technology to measure and optimize their energy and water usage, while renewable energy sources can be used to generate clean, affordable energy.Water-saving measures can also be implemented to reduce water usage and promote sustainability. With government incentives and programs available, small businesses can take advantage of these opportunities to reduce costs, improve their bottom line and become more sustainable. By taking action today, small businesses can ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for themselves and for generations to come.Read Also:Is Energy A Good Career Path? – A Detailed GuideUnleash The Benefits Of Choosing The Right Water Provider8 Things To Consider When Purchasing A Water Tank Online

HVO Fuel Uncovered: The Secret Fuel That Could Change Everything

The "fight" for a cleaner planet has been going on for a long time. People are trying to beat themselves because they and the things they use are the main polluters. Cars and everything that uses fossil fuels are among them, considering their emissions of exhaust gases into the atmosphere are huge.At the global level, governments make efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, knowing these are the biggest polluters. That's why the desire to find alternative sources of energy from renewable sources has been present for a long time. While there are already certain options in use, as you can read here, new solutions are constantly coming up with improved performance and lower CO2 emissions.Alternative fuels are essential for sustainable carbon-free energy supply and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. And while you're probably already familiar with their use, HVO (which stands for Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) might be new to you. This low-carbon liquid fuel has gained attention lately because it seems like the long-awaited solution to pollution issues.About The HVO FuelHVO implies using cooking oils and similar fatty waste as fuel. That's not an entirely new concept since the use of processed vegetable oils in diesel engines has been known for more than a century. Nevertheless, it's a new hype among eco-conscious consumers because it's plant-based and very clean. Its CO2 emission and the number of PM particles are almost 90% lower than diesel and kerosene, fossil fuels that are still widely used.The base of HVO is vegetable oil, that is, used cooking oil, such as sunflower, peanut, grapeseed, etc. However, it can also be made of both food-grade and non-food-grade oils (like palm or soy), animal fat residues, and tall oil. In their original state, these liquids could not be used as fuels, so they undergo hydrotreatment. It serves to change their consistency and composition for use in standard diesel engines.Hydrotreatment involves the use of hydrogen to eliminate oxygen from the oils. This treatment takes place at very high temperatures, and then glycerides, or fat components, are separated. That's a refining process that leaves this new fuel with minimal impurities, meaning that, during its combustion, there will be no harmful by-products and gases. That means less damage to the engine itself but also drastically less pollution.The Use Of HVOIn general, HVO represents an alternative to fossil fuels, especially diesel, one of the major pollutants globally. So this new energy source can be used in all engines made for diesel. It means that its most common application will be in car engines. Still, it has found its purpose in off-road and agricultural machinery, boats, and generators. Some of the major truck makers have already made vehicles powered by HVO, as in this biodiesel-powered racing truck.This new fuel from reputable manufacturers like SyntechBiofuel.com is equally usable in modern diesel engines as well as in older types that don't have electronic fuel injection. They will have almost the same performance in operation as if regular diesel was used, only with much less damage to the engine, the entire circuit, and the environment.Alternative fuels also have a huge potential to become the primary energy source for heating systems. Oil and gas still dominate in this area, but more and more households and industrial facilities are turning to alternative solutions. For instance, heat pumps are a popular yet costly solution.HVO can be an even better and more cost-effective option if you plan to go green, that is, to switch to it from standard heating systems that use oil or kerosene. This venture won't cost you extra money because there's no need for system modifications and add-ons, as would eventually be the case with heat pumps.Benefits Of Switching To HVO FuelAs said, using HVO cuts the emission of harmful gases by up to 90%, depending on what makes the base of this fuel. That results from clean combustion because there are no impurities and PM particles in this processed liquid. Moving on, it means that engines will utilize a higher percentage of fuel, so their consumption will be lower. Simply put, HVO is a cleaner and more economical solution than diesel.This fuel is also sustainable, as it's made from waste (used cooking oil and animal fat). It also emits much less greenhouse gases than other fuels. As there's no carbon in HVO, there are no toxic and potentially carcinogenic combustion by-products.Another advantage of using HVO in standard diesel engines is that there is no need for their upgrades. But if you plan to use it as a replacement for heating oil in oil-fired boilers, there might be some minimal changes to your existing system. In any case, this can bring significant savings to both individuals and companies that, for some reason, have relied on fossil fuels until now.Because it doesn't contain oxygen molecules, HVO has a fairly long shelf life. So you can store it in specialized containers for up to 10 years without fear it will lose its properties and viscosity. For the same reason, HVO's freezing point is lower than that of ordinary diesel. Also, it won't harm the environment in case of accident spillage or leak.How HVO Differ From FAME?FAME is biodiesel, which isn't the same as HVO, although there are certain similarities. For starters, both are plant-based. But what makes a significant difference is how they're made. FAME utilizes esterification, which turns fatty molecules into esters and keeps oxygen molecules in it.As explained, HVO is obtained by a refinery process that removes oxygen from fats, leaving them ester-free, clean, stable, and non-prone to oxidation. So, unlike FAME, hydrotreated vegetable oils can't spoil, thicken, or degrade during storage.HVO is the fuel of the future, and there are many good reasons for that. It's a clean, non-toxic, sustainable, and economical alternative to diesel. It contributes to reducing the global carbon footprint, bringing no harm to the living world and the environment.Read Also:Fuel Storage Tanks: Ensuring Safe And Reliable Fuel Management6 Effective Ways To Improve Your Car’s Fuel Efficiency5 Ways To Improve The Fuel Efficiency Of Your Truck

What Are Solar Incentives?

In a bid to put an end to global warming, more and more technological inventions are tilting towards promoting the sustenance of the environment; which is practically the main reason why the solar panels are invented as a means of producing electricity in the first place. To get more people on board to subscribe to this new means of producing power, measures were put in place; in which one of them is to allow the owners of the solar panels to enjoy certain privileges, which are loosely called Solar Incentives.So you ask, What Are Solar Incentives? This is a measure put in place to ensure that owners of the solar panels enjoy certain benefits, just by installing and using the product. These solar incentives have led more people to subscribe to the idea of installing and using the panels for their homes and business; because not only is it profitable to the environments, it is also profitable to their finances in the long run.The following are some of the Solar Incentives there is: 1. Solar Investment Tax Credits: Of all solar incentives available, this is the one that is commonly known. In this case, Solar owners benefit by having the privilege, as made possible by the federal government, to take out a portion of the cost of the solar panels from their taxes. What that means is that the cost of the system is being subsidized by a certain percent, from your taxes. The common investment tax credit percent is 30% of the cost of the solar panel system. Enticing isn’t it? So, if the solar panel system costs $10,000, you are only paying 70% of that amount, with the remaining 30% already footed for from your taxes.The only twist to this is that to be able to claim the investment tax credit, your taxable income should be higher or equivalent to the investment tax credit. 2. State Tax Credit: This is basically similar to the federal investment tax credit, only that this time, a small portion of the cost of the solar panel system can be deducted from your state tax bill, relieving you of some costs that would have been invested in purchasing of the solar panel system. The only twist to this is, unlike the federal tax credit, this is not applicable to all states; only residents of some states are privileged to enjoy this package.For those that could enjoy this package, they could end of saving about 50% of the cost of the solar panel, making it easier for them to purchase the solar panel system and enjoy its benefits. 3. Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC): The New Jersey’s Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC) program have made it possible for residents in new jersey that have acquired and installed the solar panel system to enjoy a special kind of solar incentives called certificates – though this is not exclusive to new jersey alone.You may be asking, what are Solar Renewable Energy Certificates?These are a type of solar incentive that allows owners of a solar system to sell the certificates to their utility. By standard, if you can generate 1000 kilowatts hours (kWhs) from your solar system, you are eligible to get one SREC; and an SREC is worth at least $300. Now imagine how much that figure can rise up to if you can make 6000 kilowatts hours. Let me just leave you to do the mathematics yourself.If you were once unsure about purchasing a solar panel, this should make you change your mind. 4. Net Metering: It is common knowledge that some owners of the solar panel system produce more than they can consume, in which they decide to store the overflow in an On-site battery. What if I tell you that instead of storing that in an on-site battery, you can sell to your local utility company and get returns which can be used to foot other bills. Amazing deal, isn’t it? I can bet you think it is.That’s basically what Net Metering is all about.So in days, you create more electricity beyond what you can consume with your solar panel system, instead of hoarding it in your battery, you are given another opportunity to get returns for it. Think about the future energy bills and other bills you can foot by selling excess power produced by your system. 5. Cash rebates: These are basically cash backs for the owners of the solar panel systems. It could come from different parastatals – like the government, utility company etc. – that are concerned about promoting the use of solar energy. This could also help subsidize the cost of the solar system.With the aforementioned solar incentives available, the idea of investing in the purchase and installation of a solar panel system is becoming more appealing. What are Solar Incentives? I hope this article has done justice to answering that question.Read Also:Prepare Your Solar Panels For The Fall Everything You Need To Know About Portable Solar Power What You Should Know About Solar Energy For Schools: Benefits, Expectations, And More

7 Specifications You Should Look for When Buying a Home Generator

Specifications You Need To Look For Home Generator

1. Power Requirements:

2. Fuel Type:

3. Installation:

4. Placement:

5. Options:

6. Maintenance:

7. Warranty:

5 Features to Look for in a Business Energy Provider

10 Steps To Take To Set Up Solar Panels At Home

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Ariana Smith

I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

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Small Business, Big Sustainability: Navigating The Future Of Energy And Water Management

HVO Fuel Uncovered: The Secret Fuel That Could Change Everything

What Are Solar Incentives?

7 Specifications You Should Look for When Buying a Home Generator

Specifications You Need To Look For Home Generator

1. Power Requirements:

2. Fuel Type:

3. Installation:

4. Placement:

5. Options:

6. Maintenance:

7. Warranty:

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I enjoy writing and I write quality guest posts on topics of my interest and passion. I have been doing this since my college days. My special interests are in health, fitness, food and following the latest trends in these areas. I am an editor at Content Rally.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

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