How to Evaluate Portable Generators

Portable generators are the solution for those who have a need for carry-along electric current. They are used widely by outdoor enthusiasts, especially campers and tailgaters. Portable generators are made in a variety of sizes, which will produce differing amounts of electrical power on demand. They are also very popular among homeowners in areas where the usual source for electricity is, at times of severest need, suspect. When considering the purchase of a portable generator, it is always wise to shop around and compare units until you find the generator that meets your needs at the best price. Evaluate carefully before buying.

• 1

  Calculate your total portable power need. Look at the appliances you plan to use on your stay away from your usual electrical power source. Total the appliance consumption need along with the total time you will need it, and that will give you the size range you need to buy.

• 2
  Gasoline prices must be considered to calculate operating costs of gas-powered generators. high price of gasoline image by Chad McDermott from Fotolia.com

  Consider your fuel source for your portable generator. Choose a gas-, electric-, diesel- or solar-powered generator. Think about how you will store and provide the fuel source for your generator. Plan for safe, proper storage of flammable fuel, if that is your generator fuel choice.

• 3

  Evaluate these portable generators on their ease and simplicity of use. Avoid any type that appears overly complicated to operate. Look for an easy to refuel model that will not create a smelly mess every time you need to refill it. Check out how it starts. Try to find a switch start as opposed to a pull start.

• 4
  Operating-cost calculations should be compared before making a selection. Dollars and calculators isolated on the white image by Elnur from Fotolia.com

  Review the portable generator's fuel efficiency and gas tank size to calculate the running expense of the unit. Find out how long it will run on a single tank of fuel and how much continuous power it is capable of producing during its run cycle.

• 5

  Look at the engine features to evaluate its reliability and quality. Buy a generator with an air-cooled, overhead valve, four-cylinder engine for a quality reliable engine that will give steady power delivery for extended periods of time.

• 6
  A quality generator can come to the rescue when you lose power. closeup of jumper cables image by Katrina Miller from Fotolia.com

  Evaluate the portable generator's technology advantages. Avoid generators with starter motors because it make the unit hard to start. Stay clear of manual chokes, as well. Try to find generators with a low oil cut-off feature, which saves the engine by shutting off when it senses low oil level.

• 7

  Look for other technology like modified circuit breakers and generators that are built from super heavy duty materials, which extend product life. Consider the price of the unit. Compare prices from different makers on the same quality level to compare accurately.