Everything You Need to Know About Generators (And Why You Should Have One)

Power - by Joe Weber - updated on 9/4/2024

In the U.S., power outages impact around 500,000 people daily, caused by everything from natural disasters and severe storms to utility failures and accidents. But you can stay prepared by investing in a generator. Generators offer crucial backup power during emergencies and serve as a reliable power source for various other needs. Don't wait for a crisis—be proactive by setting up a generator before you need it.

Generators For Emergencies and Beyond

There are numerous benefits to having a home generator. A backup generator provides the security of staying in your home during a natural disaster or sudden storm by keeping the lights on and essential appliances functioning. It also powers radios and TVs, helping you stay informed in an emergency. Additionally, generators keep refrigerators and freezers running, ensuring your food stays safe when it may be dangerous to leave your home.

Generators are commonly associated with emergencies, but they have many other practical uses, from business needs to leisure activities. Whether you're working on a construction site or tackling a DIY project at home, a portable generator ensures your power tools perform at their best while also powering lights and larger equipment. Additionally, generators are ideal for safeguarding your business's critical equipment and computers by providing reliable backup power.

Heading out on an RV trip? Consider bringing an extra generator to keep your appliances powered when you're out in the wilderness, away from shore power. Generators are also great for camping and tailgating at outdoor events like baseball games and music festivals.

Power Requirements

So, how much power do you actually need? A generator with at least 2200 starting watts and 700 running watts can power most full-size refrigerators. A 1000-watt generator is sufficient for running tools or appliances like blenders, drills, TVs, lamps, laptops, fans, game consoles, microwaves, slow cookers, modems, and more.

If you want to power your home's appliances during an emergency, you'll need a generator with more capacity. A 5000-watt generator can handle most appliances in an average home, but not all at once, so you'll need to prioritize what you use. A 7000-watt generator can support a greater number of appliances, but it's still wise to limit usage to the most essential ones.

To find the right size generator for your needs, you'll need to calculate both your ideal Running Watts and Starting Watts. This is simple to do. Just add up the Running Watts of all the items you plan to power with your generator. For example:

Calculate Running Watts:

Calculate Starting Watts:

To calculate your total starting watts, identify the single application that requires the highest number of starting watts. For example, let's say this is a refrigerator, with a requirement of 2200 Starting Watts. Take that number and add it to the Total Running Watts you just calculated above.

Using the example items above you would want to purchase a generator that is at least 4600 starting watts to power all of that equipment.

Portable Generators vs. Inverter Generators

Batteries Plus Bulbs offers several generators in two categories: portable generators and inverter generators.

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators are built with advanced exhaust systems that let them adjust their power output to match the demand. This makes them more efficient, with lower emissions and less noise compared to standard portable generators. Here is a great Champion model we currently offer.

Champion 4000-Watt Inverter Generator – This inverter model offers 4500 starting watts, 3500 running watts, and up to 14 hours of run time. It operates at 61 dBA, making it a great choice for camping, construction, or backing up a few home essentials. The clean electricity it produces is safe for sensitive electronics, with no spikes or drops. Plus, you can connect it with a second Champion 2800-watt or higher inverter using an optional 50 Amp ParaLINK Parallel Kit (sold separately) to double the wattage output.

Portable Generators

Portable generators run at full capacity whenever they're in use, which makes them louder than inverter generators. The upside is that they're more budget-friendly, letting you back up essential functions with higher wattage demands without breaking the bank. Here is a look at one of the models we offer:

Champion 7500-Watt Portable Generator – This 7500-watt generator delivers 8 hours of run time at 50% load and operates at 74 dBA. It's powered by a 420cc engine with an electric start, and the battery is included. It's a great choice for a home backup or your next outdoor project.

Important Safety Tips For Generators

As with any equipment, it's crucial to read the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using your generator. And don't forget these safety tips:

• Only use it in areas with plenty of ventilation.
• Keep at least 20 feet between the generator and your home, garage, or any enclosed space, with the exhaust pointed away from people.
• Regularly inspect your generator for cracks and leaks, and replace any damaged parts right away.
• Keep the generator dry—if it's raining, make sure it's covered, and only handle it with dry hands.
• Use the correct fuel and remember, only add fuel once the generator has cooled.

Important Note

Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. If you want to power hardwired electronics through your home's circuit panel, make sure a licensed electrician installs a transfer switch or interlock device first. This ensures your home's wiring disconnects from the utility system before you use the generator.

Shop Batteries Plus For Your Generator Solutions

Generators provide reliable backup power for emergencies, home projects, and more. Check out our selection of generators, covers, and extension cords online, or swing by your local Batteries Plus store. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you find the perfect generator for your needs.

Lithium Power Stations Are Here!

If you are looking for an alternative to a gas-powered generator, you're in luck! We have a great selection of Lithium Portable Power Stations from X2Power and Goal Zero that provide a clean, silent option for your backup or portable power demands. Read all about them in "Portable Solar Generators: What Are They and Why Do You Need One?"