About Portable Generators

A portable generator, also called an engine generator, is an electricity-producing device that is easy to move, store and hook up. It is typically a combination of a gasoline-powered engine and an electrical generator, and depending on the size may be initiated by a battery-powered electric starter.

Significance

Portable generators are usually built into a wheeled frame that resembles a metal garden cart for easy transportation. They are the sum of several independent parts, including a gasoline fuel tank, voltage regulator, lubrication mechanisms, engine speed regulator and systems that cool and provide exhaust disposal for the unit. High-voltage generators also use a compressed air starter to launch the generator. Portable generators are available in a range of sizes and production power, and may be purchased for residential needs at home and garden stores.

Types

A portable generator, in spite of its smaller and mobile size, can provide up to several thousand watts of power. The larger portable generators tend to run on diesel, propane, natural gas or a multiple fuel engine, while the smaller generators only use gasoline.

Identification

Portable generators are very versatile machines and are used in a variety of situations. For example, rural or remote guard or police stations that do not have access to a main line of power may use portable generators; so may temporary camping sites or mobile trailers. They are also used extensively at construction sites to power machinery or illuminate road spotlights. Portable generators also play a crucial role in providing power to disaster rescue areas.

Considerations

Many homes and small businesses have portable generators attached to their power sources that will automatically start in the event of a main power failure. Portable generators are also popular in countries where reliable power is still unavailable, like extremely rural wilderness and poor states. Some structures have their portable generators permanently fixed into the building, like hospitals, police stations and fire stations, to make them more dependable for service during a power crisis. These generators are called standby generators.

Prevention/Solution

In spite of their accessibility and convenience, portable generators are not ideal for long-term use due to the amount of fuel they need to run and the loud, cranking noise they create when turned on. Also, on a residential level, they are susceptible to falling into disrepair because they are only used on an as-needed basis--which is usually during inclement weather when the typical source of power is lost. Occasional checks of the generator are strongly recommended throughout the year to insure it is ready.