What to Look Out For When Buying a Generator?

Many of the things we use in our daily lives are made up of appliances that run on electricity. Regardless of how large or small, many modern machines rely on electrical power. And thus our living spaces are full of different electrical devices from smart device chargers to various kitchen equipment. In the workplace, computers and other machines as well as lighting systems require electricity. An unexpected power outage can bring work to a standstill. More importantly, the need for electricity is even more apparent in critical places like hospitals. Electricity is crucial for all life-supporting equipment. Generators provide an important solution to power outages and irregularities.

Power Requirement:

• The most important criteria for purchasing a generator is the total power needed. To determine this you need to calculate the total power (in watts or kVA) of the equipment you need to operate. The power of the generator must be equal to or above this total power.
• The power factor is a variable value between 0 and 1 indicating how much of the actual generator power can be used. Typically, a power factor between 0.8 and 1 is acceptable for home and office generators.

Operation Purpose:

•  You need to know what you need the generator for. As a backup power source or as a continuous source of power?
•  If you need only backup power, a generator that runs for a few hours may be enough. However, if you need continuous power then a more durable generator that runs for long periods should be considered.

Fuel Type:

• Generators that run on different types of fuel such as diesel, gasoline, LPG or natural gas all have their advantages and disadvantages.
• Diesel generators are more cost-effective and durable, but may be more noisy.
• Gasoline generators are generally less noisy, but they cost more than diesel generators and may be less durable.

Number of Phases:

Generators may be single-phase or three-phase. Single-phase generators are used in homes and small businesses. Three-phase generators are used in larger businesses and industrial plants.

Voltage and Frequency:

Your generators voltage and frequency must be the same as the voltage and frequency of your grid power. In Türkiye the power grid is 230V with a 50Hz frequency.

Sound Level:

The noise level of a generator is an important factor especially in homes and city centers. Choosing a quieter generator will help to prevent disturbing people around you.

Emission Values:

The emission values of generators are important for the ecology. Selecting a generator with lower emission values will help in reducing environmental pollution.

Price:

Generator prices depend upon the power, fuel type, number of phases and other features. Be budget-conscious in choosing a generator.

Warranty and Service Support:

Selecting a dependable brand and working with a company that provides good warranty and service support is vital. This is especially important to ensure that your generator has a long life and that you are getting maintenance and repairs when you need them.

Noise Levels:

Generators commonly create noise when running. It is important to select a low noise level model for use in quiet settings.

Operation Period and Fuel Consumption:

How long a generator will be operated and how much fuel it consumes are important factors. If you need power for longer periods, it makes sense to choose a model with lower fuel consumption and higher operation periods.

Before buying a generator do some detailed research to make sure you choose the generator best suited to your needs. Get information from authorized sellers and service points so you know you are making the best choice.