Best Portable Generator Reviews 2018

There’s a limit to the number of electric appliances a generator can power. Often, the higher the number of appliances it can power, the pricier the generator. The cost of a generator can range from $300 to $3,000, depending on the model you select. Don't risk buying one of the cheap portable generators available out there. They may not work well enough in an emergency.

You can enjoy seamless power generation from a portable generator when you make the best choice, but this is only possible if you know what to look for. Here are a few qualities to consider:

• Fuel gauge
• Fuel capacity
• Power rating
• Run time on a full tank
• Size
• Portability
• Maintenance

Knowing how long the generator will run with a 50% load when the tank is full gives you an idea of how well the generator will meet your power needs. A runtime of at least eight hours is often recommended, while generators that offer 10 hours plus are advised for homes.

Engines get damaged easily with insufficient oil. This is even worse with high voltage ones, because they run at higher speeds. But a system designed to protect the generator when there’s a shortage of oil preserves the life of an engine. These systems are designed to shut the generators off automatically when low oil is detected, and in cases of low pressure or high temperature. Check whether the model you select features a reliable oil protection system.

Usually, portable generators run on unleaded gasoline. Typically, a portable generator consumes about 30 to 84 liters of gasoline if allowed to run for a full day. The larger the fuel tank of a generator, the longer the runtime. However, such generators are often heavier and bulkier than the smaller ones.

Thinking about the generator size you should go for? The size depends on the size of the tank, which then determines how long the generator will run when the tank is full. Knowing what you want to power and how much supply you’ll require should guide you on the size of generator to get.

A fuel gauge is an important feature of a generator, even though it is often overlooked. It lets you know how much fuel you have left in the tank at any time, so you can plan to top it up and avoid interruptions when it is being used.

Not all portable generators are lightweight. While the small ones can be carried about with a handle, the large ones require wheels for easy transport. This is one reason to check for features that make mobility easy. You may want to look for pneumatic tires that roll easily, and handles for pushing and pulling. For portability, these handles should be extendable when they are needed and foldable when they are not required.

You may also want to look at the circuit breakers in generators before you make a choice. When there’s excess current running through that may damage the generator and connected equipment, circuit breakers trip immediately to prevent such damage.

It goes without saying that well-maintained generators often last longer. Annual maintenance routines will involve changing the spark plug, checking the coolant, servicing the engine, and inspecting the air and oil flow. Getting a suitable maintenance plan depends on how big your choice is. For instance, a large generator with liquid cooling will take more time to service compared to other generator types.

You should also have an idea of how to install the generator. Will you need cables and tools to install it? Or would you need to call a technician to set it up?

Never run a portable generator inside a building, or in a garage or carport. The exhaust fumes can cause suffocation and death. Always run generators in well-ventilated areas outdoors.