If you experience electrical outages often in your area, then you may not be happy about being without electricity for some time. This can be incredibly stressful, especially if the outages occur for days on end. If this is problematic for you, then it is wise to purchase a portable generator that will deliver the electricity that your home needs. Before you run out to get your generator, there are a few things that you should know about the portable devices. 

Choose the Fuel Type Wisely & Use it Outdoors

Most portable generators run on gasoline, diesel, or propane fuels. The amount of fuel needed to keep the generator running depends on the type of fuel that your generator takes. To run for 24 hours, you will typically need about 12 to 20 gallons of gasoline, 8 to 12 gallons of diesel, and 250 gallons or less of propane. As you can see, fuel usage can vary greatly. For most people, diesel is considered the best option due to convenience and cost. 

If you want your generator to be ready when you need it, then this means that you should store more than enough fuel for your 24 hour running needs. When it comes to storing diesel, keep in mind that you can store the fuel for up to one year. However, the diesel will start to oxidize and break down as soon as you begin storing it. Adding a fuel stabilizer to the diesel is necessary to keep the fuel in good condition for a long period of time. When storing the diesel, you also want to keep the diesel in 5 gallon storage containers that are specifically designed for diesel storage. These containers are typically yellow colored polyethylene varieties.

When you add the diesel, or any other fuel, to the portable generator, the fuel will be burned to create energy that is then turned into electricity. When the fuel is burned, some waste is created. This is similar to the waste created by your furnace or vehicle. It contains a great deal of carbon monoxide and is harmful when breathed in. For this reason, the generator must be placed outdoors. Most generator instructions indicate that they should be set at least 15 or 20 feet from your home. Keep this in mind when you go to use the device. 

If you want a generator that can be used inside, then you will need a stationary generator. This type of device is more expensive and requires the installation of an exhaust in your home. However, the generator exhaust can sometimes be attached to your heating system's exhaust.

Be Aware of the Electric Start

While many people purchase generators and think they can be used instantly once the fuel is added, this is rarely the case. In fact, many devices require you to purchase a separate battery and place the battery in the unit. This battery is used by the electric start, which many newer generators have installed in them. The electric start is a push button ignition system that uses the electrical energy from the battery to start the generator. If you purchase a portable generator, then make sure to also buy the battery for the electric start at the same time or the unit will not turn on. Batteries will also need to be checked often and replaced once they die.

If you do not want to deal with a battery and an electric start system, then you can always invest in a more traditional pull start unit. The pull start is similar to the one you may have on your push mower. You basically pull the cord and the engine starts on the device. While this does not require any extra equipment, you will need some upper body strength to activate the cord. Keep this in mind when choosing the generator starter that is best for your needs.