With the frequent load shedding & blackouts, generators come in handy. When one is making a decision of purchasing a generator, many questions pop up in their mind:
“Which generator should I buy?”
“What are the different type of generators available out in the market?”
“Which generator is best suited for my needs?”
“How do I figure out which type of fuel-based generator is best suited for my household requirements?”
We have curated a listed of different type of generators based on the fuels the consume in order to produce electricity, along with their advantages & drawbacks; helping you make the decision which one is best suited for needs and requirements.
Factors to consider:
- Primary consideration – type of environment where the equipment is pressed into service.
- Budgetary requirements.
- Safety factors.
- Need for portability.
- Operating temperature conditions.
- Refueling – how easy is it, when supplies are low.
Diesel Generators
Diesel is one of the least flammable fuel sources, and is readily available. These type of generators have long lifespans and are known for their durability. They perform more efficiently while lasting longer under heavy, rigorous use, so long as they are properly maintained. Diesel generators are affordable to operate and are relatively easy to use in cold environments.
Natural Gas Generators
Natural gas is one resource that is readily available in almost every location. The new shale reserves opened up by fracking techniques, suggests a virtually endless supply. These generators hardly ever run out of fuel primarily because natural gas lines are basically run to the site of the operation. Some of the major reasons contributing to the popularity of natural gas generators include how inexpensive the gas is as compared to other non-renewable fuels, how clean it is – it is easily one of the cleanest fossil fuels when burnt.
Apart from being cheap and clean, natural gas generators significantly reduce costs when they are used as power sources in households. The main reason behind this is that when you use electricity from the main utility source, it doesn’t leave you with a hole in your pocket
Gasoline Generators
Of all the choices on the list, gasoline generators are among the foremost common, primarily because gasoline is quickly available and these generators are on the low-end of the value scale. However, gasoline is typically unavailable during power outages, because it requires electricity to pump. Gasoline generators are available in small sizes, ideal for portable models, but the fuel is very flammable.
Gasoline generators are the best choice if you don’t require a lot of power. If, however, you need to install one in your home, it is best to go for a standby gasoline generator. They have the potential to provide a high output, and they also produce really less noise and gas pollution.
Propane Generators
Propane boasts an extended time period than gasoline or diesel fuels, and burns far cleaner. It is easily stored in any quantity, and is quickly available even during power outages. Propane produces relatively low emissions, and isn’t subject to “wet stacking” common in diesel generators. Propane generators are generally affordable, and last an extended time. Propane also starts easily in cold temperatures, and offers quiet operation.
Solar Generators
Generators have been in considerable use these days. However, the issue of fuel availability is a concern for most type of generators. But there is again something called Solar generators.
Solar Generators consist of solar panels which store the energy in its built battery. These solar panels help to capture the energy of the sun. Now this energy is converted by the inverts to AC power before circulating it to the households and the consumer for their use.
I think the most obvious fact about solar generators is that they are a completely “Green Choice”. The word solar is enough for us to decode that they use the energy from the sun rather than the non-renewable sources of energy like coal etc. This helps us to achieve the targets of sustainable development.
Hydrogen Generators
Since the 1800s, people have worked on developing a generator that would produce power from hydrogen. Hydrogen is tremendously abundant (particularly from water sources), is non-toxic, clean, cheap, and produces more energy per pound than the other fuel source.
Dual Fuel Generators
Dual fuel generator, also known as hybrids, can run on 2 sorts of fuel, usually gasoline and propane or sometimes gas. Having both the options provides more flexibility in operational costs, run time and storage.
For some, having an extended total run time is already enough reason to urge a dual fuel generator. Counting on the model, you’ll seamlessly switch between fuel supplies which drastically extends how long you’ll keep the generator running before you would like to shut it down for refueling.
Bottom Line
While choosing a generator the primary consideration is the type of environment where the equipment is pressed into service. Balance budgetary requirements with safety factors, the need for portability, the temperature of operating conditions, and how easy it is to refuel when supplies are low.
It’s all about weighing the pros and cons to identify what best suits your needs.
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