There are many factors to consider when purchasing or renting a portable generator. The cost is one of the biggest considerations. Many generators can cost from $200 to more than six hundred dollars. The fuel used for the generator will play a large role in the price of the device. Although gasoline is the most common fuel used for portable generators, it can also run on liquid propane, natural gas, or diesel fuel. There are advantages and disadvantages to each fuel source.
Buying or renting a portable generator
Whether to buy a portable generator or rent one is a personal choice, but there are some factors you need to keep in mind when deciding on the best option. First of all, you must consider the size of the portable generator. Some can deliver 5kW of power while others can only deliver three watts of power. Choose the correct size to avoid power failures. Oversize generators can lead to fuel waste and higher operational costs. Lastly, you must determine the amount of time you will need the portable generator for.
The cost of renting a portable generator is usually cheaper than purchasing it. You may have to pay surcharges and taxes, but this amount is refundable when you return the generator. You may need to refuel the portable generator before you return it, which may incur additional charges. If the rental company offers a rental agreement, be sure to check the details carefully. In case you are not happy with the rental agreement, you can also go with the alternative – buying.
While renting a portable generator can be cheaper than buying one, it limits your flexibility and may not provide enough power for your needs. You must consider the cost of monthly breakdowns, extended rentals, and the price of reselling if you are not satisfied. Also, a rental can increase the cost of the generator quickly. A rental generator can also be more difficult to customize than a bought one. If you need a portable generator on a regular basis, you should purchase one instead of renting it.
Cost of owning a portable generator
While there are many advantages of owning a portable generator, the cost may be a limiting factor. These devices are not always necessary. Many portable generators are designed for the average homeowner to hook up themselves. While this can save money, it’s important to remember to turn off the electricity before you start working on the wiring or breaker box. Otherwise, you could end up being shocked while you’re working. To figure out the cost of owning a portable generator, consider using the Craftsman Estimator Costbook, a series of DIY Web sites, and other references.
In addition to fuel, you’ll need to pay for regular maintenance. Most portable generators will use around three-quarters of a gallon of gas per hour. This cost could easily go up to $33 per day. But, it’s important to note that your actual cost will be significantly higher or lower depending on the capacity of your generator. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, there are several maintenance kits available from Generac. Generac even offers tutorials to help you do the work yourself.
A portable generator for extended power outages can cost anywhere from $330 to a thousand dollars. Medium-sized models have between three and six thousand watts of power. The Generac Centurion 5000 watts costs about $650 to 950 dollars. The higher-end versions of portable generators are usually quieter, smaller, and more efficient. You can also opt for diesel-fueled generators because they run much more efficiently and last longer than gas-fueled generators.
Reliability of portable generators
Depending on the size of the unit, portable generators offer power anywhere you need it. They are commonly referred to as backup generators or emergency power sources. Most of these generators feature handles and wheels to make them easy to move. Larger models may require two people to move. Many portable generators have standard outlets on the front panel that allow you to plug appliances into them. Some have twist-lock plugs to power circuits inside your home, while others have a manual transfer switch.
The main factors to consider when buying a portable generator are cost, efficiency, and durability. The top generator manufacturers are Honda, Yamaha, and Kohler. However, the reliability of a particular model depends on several factors. For example, the reliability of a generator depends on its ability to run on low fuel consumption. Honda power generators may be a good option if you need high power at a low price.
Some of the latest models have built-in carbon monoxide detectors. These detectors will shut off the generator if it reaches a certain level of CO, making them safer to operate. While the CPSC estimates that 849 people have died due to portable generators, many more suffer from CO poisoning. During Hurricane Laura, eight of the 15 fatalities were attributed to carbon monoxide poisoning.
