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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What size generator do I need?
A. Power requirements must be determined to
properly determine the size of generator that you need. Our professionals
can help you with this but these are some things that you may want to
consider:
Determine your need—do you need the
generator to operate part or all of your home or office?
Identify the appliances and/or tools that
you need to power
Determine the wattage for each
appliance/tool you plan to use
(see chart below for some examples of common items)
| Item |
Running Watts |
Starting Surge |
| 100 watt light bulb |
100 |
100 |
| Radio AM/ FM stereo |
50-200 |
50-200 |
| Radio CB |
50 |
50 |
| Fan |
200 |
200 |
| Television |
300-400 |
300-400 |
| Microwave oven |
700 |
1000 |
| Air conditioner |
3250 |
5000 |
| Furnace fan (1/3 HP blower) |
600 |
1800 |
| Vacuum cleaner |
600 |
750 |
| Sump pump (1/3 HP) |
700 |
2100 |
| Refrigerator/ Freezer |
800 |
2400 |
| Freezer |
500 |
1500 |
| 6" circular saw |
800 |
1000 |
| Floodlight |
1000 |
1000 |
| 1/2" electric drill |
1000 |
1250 |
| Toaster |
1200 |
1200 |
| Coffee maker |
1200 |
1200 |
| Electric skillet |
1200 |
1200 |
| 14" electric chain saw |
1200 |
1500 |
| 1/2 HP water well pump |
1000 |
3000 |
| Hot plate |
1500 |
1500 |
| Electric range |
10000 |
10000 |
| 10" table saw |
2000 |
6000 |
| Hot water heater |
5000 |
5000 |
Q: What types of fuel does a generator use?
A: Just about all generators use gasoline,
diesel, natural gas, or propane.
Q: What type of fuel is best?
A: There are many advantages and disadvantages to
the different types of fuel that a generator uses. Here are some
advantages and disadvantages:
Gasoline:
Advantages
Common fuel source-easily obtained
Increases portability of smaller
generators
Disadvantages
Highly flammable
Short shelf life
Storing large quantities is hazardous
May not always be available during power
outages
Somewhat expensive per gallon
Inefficient
Propane:
Advantages
Longer shelf life
Cleaner burning
Easily stored (both small and large
quantities)
Can be obtained during power outages
Home delivery is available for larger
tanks
Disadvantages
Pressurized cylinder of flammable gas
Fuel system is a bit more complicated
Larger tanks can be unsightly
Installation can be costly
Somewhat expensive per gallon
Natural Gas:
Advantages
Unlimited fuel source-not necessary to
refuel
Clean burning
Available during power outages
Disadvantages
May be unavailable during natural
disasters (earthquakes, etc.)
Lower power output (approx. 30% less BTU
per unit than gasoline)
Installation can be costly
Not available in many areas
Diesel:
Advantages
Least flammable fuel source
Easily obtained
On site fuel delivery available
Disadvantages
Short shelf life (generally 18-24
months)
Installation of large storage tanks
raises cost of system
May not always be available during power
outages
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