Portable Generator Buying Guide & Selection Tips

A portable generator is one of the most versatile and essential tools for achieving energy independence, providing peace of mind and the ability to continue working, regardless of the circumstances. As your trusted partner, we provide the expertise to help you select the best portable generator.

Types of Portable Generators

Portable generators are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The first step in selecting the portable generator that’s right for you is to consider which category best serves your needs based on the unit’s power, fuel, and noise level.

Sizing Your Portable Generator

Regardless of which type of portable generator you choose, the most crucial step is selecting the correct wattage. To ensure your unit can handle your equipment, you must understand the difference between two critical ratings:

• Running Wattage (Rated Wattage): The amount of power the generator can put out consistently and all the time.
• Surge Wattage: The extra power the generator can momentarily jump to (for about one second) when starting items.

Tip: Always look for the rated wattage to know the consistent power output you are truly getting. Portable units are designed for essential circuits and generally cannot run an entire home or large appliances like central air conditioning simultaneously. For whole-home coverage, we recommend investing in a standby generator.

Power Quality: Clean vs. Dirty Power

The quality of power is essential for modern electronics. Power quality is measured by Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), which represents the deviation from the standard 60 hertz (Hz) power frequency.

• Clean Power (6% THD or less): This level is essential if you plan to run computers, high-end TVs, or other sensitive electronics. Solar and recreational inverter generators are the most reliable choices for guaranteed clean power.
• Dirty Power (High THD): High THD levels are acceptable for basic motor-driven appliances, such as refrigerators, sump pumps, or shop lights, and will not affect their function.

Caution: High THD can potentially damage or burn out sensitive electronics with a tight tolerance for acceptable power. Simple items like surge protectors are not a practical solution for "cleaning up" a generator's frequency.

Dealing with Generator Noise

Decibel Levels & Noise Reduction

• Typical Portable Generators (Emergency/Professional): Generally produce noise levels between 72 and 80 decibels (dB).
• The Quiet Options: Solar units are silent, and recreational inverter generators are specifically engineered to be quiet enough for parks and campgrounds.

If you find your unit louder than expected, here are a few expert solutions:

• Increase Distance: Simply place the unit farther away from your home.
• Build a Sound Wall: Erect or purchase a sound wall to block the direction the sound is traveling while allowing open air for safety and ventilation.
• Use a Transfer Switch: Plugging in with extension cords often requires leaving a window or door open, letting sound travel inside. We highly recommend installing a manual transfer switch or through-the-wall kit, which allows you to be completely enclosed in the home with all openings shut, providing both noise reduction and safety.

Visit us online or in a showroom nationwide and let our specialists help you find the right portable generator for your complex project or essential need.