General Questions
Can I connect a portable generator directly to my house?
No. It is advised not to connect the generator directly to your system. Instead, you should use a transfer switch. If the generator is directly connected to the electrical system, it can cause damage. Transfer switch helps in preventing the damage.
What is an automatic transfer switch?
It transfers power from standard source to emergency power suppliers like generators, power goes off or standard source fails. It automatically senses a power interruption and gives a signal for the engine to start. Automatic Transfer Switches are often used in high availability environments such as data centers etc.
How to know what size of generator is the perfect for you?
Estimate the energy you need and the total wattage you need. Firstly, make a list of devices you want to run.
Then, calculate the watts needed to analyse the size of generator you require. For example, a typical 10,000 air conditioner consumes 2,200 starting watts. That’s how much it needs to start up for the first few seconds. After that, its energy demand goes down. The AC then needs a constant supply of 1,500 running wattage to run. Choose a generator slightly bigger than your needs. You can run the most critical household equipment with a generator rated at 5,000 to 7,500 watts. These include things like a well pump, refrigerator and freezer, and lighting circuits.
What is RPM in a generator?
RPM stands for revolution per minute. It is the number of times the engine turns every minute. If a generator has RPM=3000 it will operate at twice the speed of a generator which has RPM=1500.
What to do when you have some parts missing in your generators packaging?
You should contact the dealer you bought the generator from. The dealer should get you the missing parts or replace the product. In no circumstances, should you accept damaged goods.
Can sensitive equipment be operated over the generator?
The output and the power from the generator is not as stable as the main supply. The speed of the generator drops when the load is increased. It is always recommended to ask the equipment supplier whether their equipment is suitable to be operated from a portable generator.
What is the difference between air cooled and liquid cooled generators?
The air cooled generator employs forced air moving over an engine to cool it via a fan whereas a liquid cooled generator employs an automotive style engine with an enclosed radiator system.
Maintenance Questions
Does the generator need maintenance?
Yes. Like any other equipment, the generator also needs maintenance. Based on the model and size there are few things you should keep check on. Like, it should be dry and kept clear of snow. You should keep a regular oil check.
What happens if too much oil is added?
With excess oil, the oil may leak or white smoke may be emitted from the exhaust. There are also chances of performance declination. It is advised to use the amount of oil specified in the manual.
What happens if the amount of oil is less than required?
With low levels of oils, the oil warning system is activated. Low oil may result in burning of motors. So, the system stops the running of the engine to prevent it from burning.
What happens if we use the engine without changing fuel?
It can affect the generator’s life. It can also damage the components and parts of the generator. Regular oil changing is recommended.
Where can I buy parts and equipment required for the generator?
You should contact the dealer selling the generator.
What kind of fuel should be used for fueling the generator?
You should always adhere to the manual of your generator. You should not use any other fuel than the recommended one.
What happens if we use another oil than recommended?
It is not recommended to use any other oil than the recommended one. You should follow the generator’s manual for proper usage. Engine performance is affected when different oils blend.
Safety and Precautions Questions
What happens if the generator is overloaded?
The generator should not be overloaded. If a generator is overloaded for a long time it can result in damages like:
- Reduced life of generator
- Alternator coil reheating
- Cooling system overheating
Can the exhaust be vent out through an indoor area?
No. Generators should be kept and run only in outdoor areas. It is strictly told to not run them in indoor areas as they require plenty of ventilation
Can the generator be run in the garage or any place with the gate open?
No. Generators release carbon monoxide and hence are fatal if kept inside. So you should only keep them in open spaces.
Do generators generate carbon monoxide?
Generators can produce a high level of Carbon Monoxide which you cannot smell but it is a poisonous gas that can make you feel sick or weak and if not taken care of can lead to death.
Installing a CO alarm that is certified according to the requirements of the latest safety standards for preventing leak by detecting the amount of CO in the atmosphere around. Locate the generator in outdoor spaces away from any windows which might help CO get inside.
Storage-Related Questions
How long can the fuel be kept inside the tank when not in use?
Stale fuel is bad for generators. So you should not keep fuel in the tank for a long period. Instead of storing in the tank, you can ask your dealer for storage suggestions.
Does a generator work in rain?
The generator does not work in any moist or rainy situations. Instead, the generators need to be in dry and safe locations.
What to do if water comes in the fuel tank?
You have to drain the fuel tank and discard it in a safe manner. Then you have to refill it with fresh fuel.
What to do with generators when not in use?
If you are planning to not use your generator for a long period, then you should follow storage guidelines in the manual. You should follow the correct steps for draining fuel tanks, cleaning carburetor and storage precautions.
Bottom Line
We hope all the doubts and queries regarding the portable generators are cleared. These were some general and frequently asked questions. Feel free to ask any questions or queries in the comment section below.
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