Generators and how to choose one
When the power goes out, it seems like everything you're used to is suddenly distorted into some kind of macabre version of itself. Shadows cast by candlelight are a lot less romantic when they make you stub your toe on the corner of your bed. With a generator, you can cook your food, keep your refrigerator cold, and actually see your way around the house any time the elements decide to knock down a power line or two.
Generators can be portable or standby, and run on a variety of fuels, including gasoline, diesel and natural gas. They convert one form of energy to another, and are usually used as a backup plan when power is temporarily lost. To choose a generator, you first need to determine the amount of power required by the items you'll be plugging into it during a power outage. Then, compare that to the wattage produced by the generator and make sure you'll have enough. Around 3,000 watts is enough to run a few lights, fans and a refrigerator. Never plug in more than the generator is built for, or it can blow the fuse or damage appliances that are plugged in.
However, generators are only useful if they operate properly, so proper care and testing is essential. Test to see if it holds a charge; measure the voltage across the battery with a voltmeter. It should measure at 12.6 volts and gradually increase to 14 volts. If the generator brushes are worn, the generator may not be running its best. Put a little pressure on the brushes while the engine is running, and if the gen light goes out or the voltmeter reading goes up, the brushes may be too worn to exert enough pressure and should be replaced. If the brushes are okay, the generator is holding a charge, and you can test it. Take the wires off the generator to disconnect it from the regulator. Place jumper cables from the DF terminal to the frame, and run the engine to measure the voltage from the ground to the D+ terminal. The engine should jump to 35+ volts to 3000 rpm. Don't do this test for longer than is needful or the generator will overheat. If it fails the test, it might need to be polarized. Leave the jumper wire connected to the DF and the ground, remove the fan belt, and connect a wire from the + battery terminal to the D+ on the generator, at which point the shaft will begin to spin. After just a couple seconds, it should be properly polarized. If the shaft did not spin, it's probably a defective generator.
Make sure to keep the generator in an open, outside area, at least ten feet away from windows, doors or vents that lead to the house. Along with all of that wonderful electricity, generators produce carbon monoxide, so it should never be used inside a house or in a closed garage. As it is outside, it should also be protected by an open canopy if there is rain or snow. It should always be kept dry, and set on dry ground. If it does get wet, do not use it, or it could short circuit or cause electrocution.
For plugging appliances into generators, use a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord. You can plug them directly into it, as well, but it probably wouldn't be as useful if your toaster was outside instead of on your counter.
Fuel should be stored in a sealed container outside the home, and check the state and town laws for storage of fuel. Only use the fuel recommended on the label, and always let the generator cool for at least ten minutes after turning it off before adding more fuel for fire safety.
Maintenance on generators is vital to ensure proper functioning. Run it at least twice a month for at least 15 minutes. The electrical appliances connected to it should use at least 50 percent of its capacity. Change the oil every season, empty the carburetor float bowl, and refill the gas tank.
With proper care and maintenance, your generator will help you during years of power outages, and also for using power tools or other equipment in places without electricity. Those nights of bruised knees and stubbed toes will be no more!
Article Source: Messaggiamo.Com
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