Generator for a private house: types, features, which one is better to choose

A generator for a private house is able to provide electricity during blackouts or breakdowns of the network. Such equipment differs in power, fuel type and other characteristics. Let's consider the types and features of generators for private homes. Which one is better to choose?

Types of generators for the house

The power of the generator determines how much energy it will produce. To choose the right model, you need to add up the total power consumption of all electrical appliances that will be connected to the backup power supply. At the same time, the starting power of all household equipment is taken into account. It can be many times higher than the average power consumption.

Type of generator engine

Generators are of two types:

• Diesel models consume less fuel and they have a longer service life. However, such equipment costs about twice as much as gasoline generators. Diesel model is suitable when you need to use the generator for a long time as a constant source of electricity.
• Gasoline generators are cheaper, weigh less. A gasoline generator is chosen if it is needed as an emergency power source for short power outages.
• Gas generators are economical, quiet and easy to maintain. However, they are only suitable for use in gasified private homes, or a gas cylinder will need to be connected. Such equipment is expensive and requires a specialist to connect the generator to the house gas system.

Dual-fuel generators can be connected to the gas system, cylinder or refueled with liquid fuel. Gas and gasoline or diesel and gas models are made.

Generators are available for standard power supply from the 220 V network with one phase. For household needs - this is the best option. If you have to use equipment that needs to be powered at 380 V, you need a three-phase generator.

How to choose a generator

Choosing the power level of the equipment, it is important to take into account that the potential must often be used fully. Otherwise, in a gentle mode of operation, the fuel burns through not in full, the plugs become contaminated with soot. You will have to change the oil frequently. To connect household appliances during the period when backup power is needed, units of 2,5-3,5 kW will suffice. A few more tips:

• If you have to connect equipment that requires a stable current, for example, computers, medical devices, it is better to choose generators of inverter type.
• If you need to connect heating equipment to the generator, such as a gas boiler, it is better to choose a generator model with a pairing device. This element can be purchased separately.
• A generator with a copper winding rather than an aluminum winding will be less warm.
• A voltage stabilizer at the output will equalize the voltage, which provides stable power for household appliances.

The manual start type is suitable for intermittent starting of the generator. Such models are cheaper and easy to use. Electric start is convenient if the equipment needs to be turned on regularly. It is enough to press the button. However, it is good when there is additionally a manual start in case the electric start breaks down. In areas where power outages are frequent, it is better to choose a generator with automatic start. When the network is de-energized, the equipment turns on by itself.

When choosing a generator, it is worth reading reviews of the models you like on the Internet. This will help to know how the equipment works in practice. Also pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturing company.