Typically, a portable generator isn’t an appliance you seriously consider purchasing until you really need one. Unfortunately, a home generator sitting in a shop is no help at all when you’re experiencing an extended power outage!
You can imagine the scenario, sitting in the dark with no heating or cooling, no way to cook, and a dwindling phone charge – and no way of knowing when the power will return.
This post will help you weigh up the considerations so you can decide if a portable generator is a wise investment for your home.
Perfectly portable
Typically, standard portable generator models have wheels and a handle, and they can be positioned anywhere they are needed. You just need to follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions. You can also permanently install a generator, although this requires the help of a licensed electrician.
How they work
Using an appliance that produces electricity can be daunting. However, modern home generators are equipped with a range of safety features.
All portable generators come with a circuit breaker that cuts the power supply whenever there is the potential for overload. Mechanisms are also in place to regulate the voltage, and some generators are equipped with exhaust spark prevention to reduce the risk of fire.
Whether you’re looking for a diesel generator, a gas-fuelled model or a combination of both diesel and gas, there’s a safe and easy to use portable generator for every situation. In addition, generators with inverter technology are now available and are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to produce cleaner energy.
Safety considerations
Although a home generator used correctly is a safe way to continue your normal activities when a power outage occurs, anything that produces power should be treated with a degree of caution.
Here are three essential safety tips to be aware of.
- Diesel or petrol-fuelled generators produce toxic fumes, so it’s vital they are operated outdoors and away from windows.
- Don’t overload the generator. Know the wattage your generator is capable of supporting and ensure the total wattage of the appliances operating at the same time is less.
- Do not connect the generator to your home’s wiring system unless an experienced electrician has installed special facilities, including a changeover switch.
Everyone hates it when the power goes out, so purchasing a home generator makes good sense, but staying safe around electricity also makes good sense.
If you live in the Melbourne CBD and surrounding suburbs, contact the experienced electricians at Electricians Today to ensure your portable generator is positioned safely, or to install a changeover switch to make your home generator permanent, so you and your family can get the most out of having power on tap.
