A generator is one of those things that are extremely useful to have in the household. You might not use it frequently, but it has an immense value with regards to urgent situations. Whenever you lose power supply, you get to start it within the next minute and use it until your power is restored. You will find that, most generators are quite easy to start and connect to all the necessary supplies.
1. Dimension
You should consider the space you have available to store and operate the generator starting form; it could be key starter, recoil starter or both. Key starter is better and easier to use, but it will cost more. With this, you should consider portability as well, wheels, rollers and handles. They make moving the generator easier, they will actually cost a bit more, but it is better to have a power generator that will be easy to move if need be.
2. Identify the Anticipated Generator Load
The first thing you should consider is the total and the average load, which is the power consumption that will be supplied by the generator. The total load is the consumption of all electrical loads in your home and the average is the more realistic estimate of your supply requirement.
3. Voltage and Frequency
You should determine the ratings of the generator; you must ensure that it is of the right voltage and frequency rating. Power generators of a rating lower than 220V, 50Hz. will not be able to supply your home with the necessary voltage to support all your gadgets. You must ensure it is not too high either as it will cause problems so you should get a power generator that is compatible with the electric company and your gadgets.
4. The Kind of Fuel
It is important that you know the type of fuel your power generator will have. Make sure that you will be able to source the fuel from your place. Most power generators use diesel or gasoline. Of course, a home generator will need unleaded gasoline (petrol). You will find that some generators are flexible, allowing you to blend gasoline with either methanol or ethanol, which will reduce your fuel cost and the carbon dioxide emitted.
5. Is the Output Voltage Regulated?
By now, you must be able to decide if you need a power generator that comes with an inbuilt AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator or not. Generators with AVR supply a stable voltage with no flicker. Actually, most generators nowadays have them built in.
6. How much Will it Cost?
Now that you have an idea about the kind of power generator you want, do a market survey to find out how much it goes for. Incase what will suit you is more expensive than you budgeted for, it is not wise to compromise on the quality because a generator is not something you buy every day, instead, borrow some money or wait until you save enough. In case you must compromise, be sure of what features you want to sacrifice or you will be able to do without. The power rating should not be one of them because the moment you overload it, your power generator will suffer a breakdown.
7. When You Purchase
Make sure you buy it from an accredited dealer without forgetting about your procurement receipt. Ensure that all the accessories like the manual and a spare spark plug and so on, have been packed up with the item.