Portable generator accessories are one of the most essential components. The parts that come separately or in built with your portable generator are crucial for its functioning. Without these components the generator functioning can get hampered and its use can get crippled.
From silencer to weather proof sheet, generator accessories bring a host of benefits.
The best way to decide what accessories to choose for the portable generator, you have to analyse and think of how you are going to use the generator. For example, if you are going to move it a lot, you might need wheels and if its heavy portable generator and will be one spot, you will need a sheet to keep it safe.
Portable Generator Accessories
Transfer Switches
Generator transfer switches give you power at the flip of a switch during an outage. You can install a manual transfer switch for use with a portable generator or have an automatic generator transfer switch installed for use with a home standby generator.
Whether manual or automatic, electrical transfer switches give you peace of mind knowing you won’t have to stay in the dark. Crucially, this piece of kit prevents two power sources from simultaneously feeding into the generator’s circuit, which can be extremely dangerous.
There are 2 types of switches:
- AUTOMATIC– This automatically transfers the load. It can be programmed to carry specific loads depending on your immediate power needs, and the size of the generator.
- MANUAL– With this you physically are required to flip a switch when there is a power cut and when normal power resumes you also need to put off the switch.
Both of them are suitable. We recommend to have a professional install the switches to make sure the connections are correct.
Extension Cord
Generators should be placed at an isolated place which is at least 15 feet apart from any large objects. Extension cord is a useful portable generator accessory when you want to install the generation at some isolated place which is ideal for your generator. It ensures proper delivery of electricity. As generators are outdoor, the cords should be able to handle extreme weather conditions.
This generator accessory must also have two different plugs, one for the transfer switch outlet, and one for the portable generator outlet. Make sure that it is of a reasonable length for convenient installation and operation.
Maintenance kit
Generators require regular servicing and scheduled maintenance. Maintenance kits contain all the tools needed for portable generator service.
The kits should contain:
- Air filters for replacing the dirty Air Filter. Air filters ensure the proper circulation of clean air within the generator
- Oil to change used-up oil
- Mechanical, high-efficiency oil filters to help cool the generator by transferring excess heat
- New plugs to replace worn-out plugs
- A chamois cloth to clean the surface
- A pre-cleaner to protect the generator from dust, dirt, and other pollutants
- Funnels to fill and pour out the generator oil
- Preventative maintenance reminder stickers
Cold Weather Kits
This kit is an important accessory if you live in cold areas. Batteries will tend to stop working once temperatures dip below zero, and the oil thickens, almost solidifying, preventing it from moving through the portable generator.
They include:
- A battery warmer– It will heat generator’s battery
- An oil heater– It will heat up and liquefy the oil with the generator.
Cold weather kits can extend the life of your generator.
Silencers and Mufflers
Generators make a lot of noise while working so they are already installed with silencers and mufflers to make them work quietly. But sometimes it’s not enough. So to reduce the noise further generators, you can install mufflers.
Silencers perform similar functions for combustion engines as the muffler does for automotive engines. They facilitate the quiet operation of your portable generator. Neighbors in shared buildings or camping sites may not be amused by noise level every time you power up your generator. For this reason alone, it is essential to install a muffler on your generator.
There are three designs of silencers:
- Absorptive Silencers
- Reactive Silencers
- Combination Silencers
Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)
This is particularly important if you have sensitive appliances to power up. An AVR maintains the generator’s voltage at a stable state for effective usage with delicate electronics. They help in maintaining the constant voltage by power conditioning your generator and by making sure that the generator power load to the sensitive electrical devices or site equipment remains constant.
Without a functioning AVR, generator output will vary widely and could cause damage to any equipment or appliances connected to the generator.
Weather-Proof Covers
Portable generators are mostly used outdoors and could easily get damaged when exposed to the elements. A generator cover is a useful accessory that protects your portable generator from the elements while it is in storage.
The generators are not waterproof. They also need to be protected from dust, dirt, rust, pollen, and other environmental pollutants. The covers act like protective covers too keep the machine dry and act as a protective layer. When portable generators are large and heavy and are kept at one spot, you will need a sheet to keep it safe. The generator cover should match the size of your generator to give it total protection.
Battery Charger
They are one of the most useful portable generator accessories because they let you charge the generator battery quickly and quietly. If you don’t have the battery charger, you won’t be able to start your generator if the battery runs out during a power outage and hence leave you without a power supply backup. Battery chargers should also lower the voltage when the generator’s battery reaches a fully charged state, so they don’t damage the generator’s battery.
Wheel Kits
Wheels are a convenient accessory for your portable generator. They just make it so easy to wheel around. This flexible accessory ensures that your generator is more manageable, handling the weight of your portable generator on any terrain and under any weather conditions.
Crucially, they are fitted with vibration mounts to reduce vibration as you move the generator from one place to the next. These portable generator accessories are light weighted and can be easily stored.
Remote Wireless Start
A wireless remote start allows you to switch the generator on from a distance. If you plan on using your generator at a campsite, worksite or at home during power outages, this feature can come in handy. It can be a remote connected with long wire or a wireless remote that can operate from 80 feet away.
This remote start capability takes care of your generator power supply at the push of a button, and without having to leave your house. It is also useful on worksites, for people with mobility.
Conclusion
People might not consider buying these portable generator accessories but they are very important for functioning. If you have invested in a generator and do not invest in the accessory, then the functioning of the generator will be crippled. Hence, it is advised that you invest in the accessory too for proper functioning and support during need or power outages.
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