Whether you are a homeowner or business owner, a backup generator can be a valuable investment. It is a reliable way to keep your home or office running in the event of a power outage. There are several types of backup generators, including standby generators and portable generators. You will need to choose the best option for your needs.
Portable vs standby
Whether you are buying a standby backup generator or a portable generator, you want to make sure you get the right product for your home and budget. Both types can provide you with temporary power during a power outage. However, standby generators have a number of benefits over portable generators.
Standby generators are typically installed in insulated structures to protect them from the elements. They also offer greater fuel efficiency and are quieter.
Portable generators are smaller, lighter, and less expensive than standby types. They also require less maintenance. However, they are less powerful. Portable generators may run on natural gas, gasoline, or liquid propane. Consumer Reports doesn’t test portable generators that run on liquid propane.
Standby generators can power a small number of essential appliances. This includes lights, air conditioning, and refrigerators. They can also help you maintain food storage in case of a power outage. They are also safer to operate than portable generators.
Propane vs gasoline
Choosing between propane and gasoline for buying a backup generator is an important decision. The decision should be based on a number of factors, including cost, efficiency, safety and environmental impact.
Propane is a cleaner burning fuel. It produces less harmful emissions and burns at lower temperatures than gas. It also produces low levels of carbon monoxide, which is less harmful to humans and plants.
Propane is also easier to store than gas. It can be stored for many months, while gasoline is not stored for very long. This makes propane generators a clear winner over gasoline generators.
Propane is more expensive than gas and is less available in some areas. Gasoline generators may be more economical for short-term use, but in a full-scale emergency, propane may be the safer choice.
Gas is a flammable, toxic fuel, and it has a short shelf life. The price of gas fluctuates depending on economic conditions in your area.
Wi-Fi options
Several manufacturers are adding Wi-Fi options to their home standby generators. This is a good thing. During a power outage, you can use the generator to power your household appliances, which can save your wallet and your sanity. In addition, the generator will be able to provide power during emergencies, such as hurricanes and earthquakes.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that your primary home power source should not cost more than it does. In other words, a backup generator should not be the sexiest thing you own. Aside from the generator, you’ll also want to ensure that the Wi-Fi connection is reliable. Wireless networks have proven themselves time and time again in the face of natural disasters.
In the event of a power outage, a cellular connection may be the most reliable way to go. You can get up to 1 Gbps download and 35 Mbps upload bandwidth. Plus, you can pick from a variety of carriers and plans, and you can install your own equipment in your home.
Fuel sources
Choosing fuel sources for a backup generator is an important decision. You will want to determine how much power you need and the type of fuel that is best for your home or business. Fortunately, there are many options for fuel sources.
Natural Gas is a clean, environmentally friendly fuel that is available through the local utility. It is also a popular fuel source for backup generators. It is less expensive than gasoline, and it is available in most cities.
Propane is a colorless, liquefied petroleum gas that is widely used for cooking and heating. It is also used as bottled fuel. This is a less expensive fuel source, and it is less flammable. Unlike diesel, it does not emit sulfur dioxide.
Natural Gas is the most common fuel for standby generators. It is a clean, abundant, and reliable source of fuel. Unlike diesel, it does not need to be stored on site. The gas is delivered through underground pipelines. However, the pipelines can become obstructed by uprooted trees or other debris.