A portable generator is a handy backup to keep your lights on and appliances running when the power goes out. They run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas and typically have several outlets that you can plug appliances into. Because they use combustion engines to produce power, portable generators emit dangerous carbon monoxide fumes that can be deadly if inhaled. For this reason, they should be used outdoors and kept a safe distance away from doors and windows while they are operating.

The key feature of a generator is its power output, measured in watts. To determine the right size for your needs, start by adding up the total wattage of all the appliances and devices you want to keep powered. Then choose a generator with an output that can handle this amount of energy. Larger generators can handle more, but smaller models are best suited for the bare essentials such as keeping lights and a refrigerator running.

If you live in an area that is prone see here to severe weather, you might need a portable generator to help you stay functional during a power outage. These generators can keep your refrigerator and freezer working, which prevents food waste and helps you avoid the annoyance of having to leave your home to buy groceries or supplies during a disaster. Many residents also use portable generators to keep their homes’ essential electronics functioning during a power outage, including televisions and computer monitors.

Having a generator is also helpful in hospitals and medical clinics, where patients depend on high-tech equipment for their care. Portable generators can keep these vital pieces of machinery operating when the power goes out, ensuring that patients receive quality treatment and lifesaving procedures.

While a portable generator can be useful for a variety of applications, it is important to know how to properly operate and maintain one. Most portable generators should be stored in a dry, dirt-free area when not in use. Before you start using your generator, make sure to clean it off and drain the fuel tank. You should also invest in a generator oil stabilizer to help prolong its lifespan.

It is also important to ground your generator correctly before each use. Improper grounding can pose a risk of electrocution for you and anyone else who uses the generator. It is best to have a qualified electrician install a grounding kit and connect it to the metal parts of your generator and your electrical system.

When using a portable generator, you should always follow the manufacturer’s directions to set up and operate it. This includes following proper ventilation and safety guidelines, putting your generator in a dry, well-ventilated area, and never using it to run motors that need a lot of power to start. You should also avoid refueling it while it is still hot, as this can cause a fire or explosion. Finally, if your generator trips GFCI outlets in your home, this could be an indication that it isn’t properly grounded and should be checked by a qualified electrician.