Bud’s Electric installs and maintains generators.
Only the most dependable and quiet with several models to choose from for all budgets and situations.
Bud’s Electric can help you make an expert decision for your home or business generators needs.
Below is a little more information about generators and some of the most common questions.
FAQ’s
The numbers below are estimates. Consult the generator’s manual or a dealer for precise information on any particular model.
Q. How do you know how many watts you need your generator to handle?
A. Add the watt usage of the items you think you must have running simultaneously. Generally, that number should be 90 percent or less of the maximum wattage of the generator you use. That number is known as the generator’s running (or rated) watts and is usually listed along with the maximum number on the label. The amount of power being used at any one time is called the load. You should never run your generator at the maximum load for more than 30 minutes. For instance, my tiny unit is rated for a 2,250-watt load. It could simultaneously handle a refrigerator (800 watts), microwave (625), computer (400), five 60-watt light bulbs (300) and radio (100) — but nothing more.
Q. What are start-up (surge) watts?
A. There are two types of loads: resistive and reactive. A resistive load is the same at start-up as it is afterward (i.e. light bulb, toaster). A reactive load is much higher at start-up than it is afterward. This is because items with reactive loads usually contain an electric motor (refrigerator, power drill). The start-up watts for these items generally run at about 2.5 times the running watts. Your generator must be able to handle that momentary high number and should have a start-up watts maximum on its label. I have to make sure that my refrigerator is the first item I attach to the generator, simply to handle the start-up watts that reach up toward my generator’s full capacity. After the unit settles in to its 800-watt running level, I can add the other “resistive-power” items.
Q. How much time will a full tank on a generator give me?
A. Depends on the load you are asking it to power and the size of the gas tank, among other things. If you run a generator non-stop at its rated watts limit, though, plan on filling up every six to eight hours.
Q. It seems like every handyman neighbor is installing direct connections between their generators and their home electrical system. Can I do this?
A. Even for our electrically skilled friends, we would recommend that only a licensed electrician install a manual transfer switch. The switch itself costs between $200 and $1,000, and then labor costs get added. A permit is required.
Q. I have taken my generator out of its box and have started it up. How long before I have to change the oil?
A. As is the case with many other gas-powered machines at home, the motor oil that the generator comes equipped with must be changed after the first few hours of operation. After that, it should be changed every 25-50 hours of operation.
Q. How often should I run my generator?
A. Every three months (or less), the generator’s engine should be exercised by running it for a half-hour or so. Additionally, gasoline stabilizer should be added to the tank in the off season to keep sludge from building up in the engine.
Q. Do I plug in my fridge and then start my generator?
A. No. Make sure that you do not plug anything into your generator until after you have started it, and unplug items before turning it off.
Q. What if I don’t have the strength or patience for a recoil (lawnmower-style) starting generator?
A. There are electric-start models that use a key to start. They typically cost more.
Q. How much should I pay for my generator?
A. Depending on power, brand and options, portable gas generators primarily range from $700 to $5,000.
What do I do to make sure I don’t injure myself or others using my portable generator?
- Never plug a generator into one of your home’s outlets. It can send electricity all the way out to power lines that are being repaired, causing serious injury or death to a worker.
- Make sure your generator is operating outside the home (that includes the garage) because carbon monoxide fumes are lethal.
- Do not refuel while the generator is in use.
- Be careful not to spill fuel onto a hot generator (use a funnel if possible).
- Do not go near the generator with a flame.
