October 26th, 2006
An automatic home standby system works as an emergency power source. If, for whatever reason, local power to your home is shut off, Generac’s controller automatically switches on the standby generator, and brings the lights back on! How much power the standby generator provides depends on the model’s capacity.
Generac’s automatic home standby systems come in four power outputs: 7 kW, 10 kW, 13 kW, and 16 kW. The latter unit is the least expensive – with a cost of slightly over $2000 USD – and Generac proudly declares it to be the “world’s most affordable standby generator.” Although less popular, the 10 kW is a good mid-power alternative.
It should also be noted that none of Generac’s automatic home standby systems run on diesel; they are either natural gas or propane fuelled. Likewise, an automatic home standby generator cannot be powered by one of Generac’s Bi-Fuel engines.
In addition to the generator, the second important component of any automatic home standby system is the switch. Without a switch, power from the standby generator will not be routed to your home. Generac manufactures their own high-quality switches, and bundles them with their generators – so both components of your automatic home standby system are designed to work well together.
Those new to automatic home standby systems should also consider the current electrical set-up of their homes, and decide which circuits receive the most power. For free tips and more information, see Generac’s website.
Posted in Diesel, Home, Generac, Propane, Standby, Commercial, Natural Gas, Emergency | No Comments »
October 7th, 2006
The quality of Onan’s marine power generators rests comfortably on over 60 years of marine generator manufacturing experience – some of it spent on the task of delivering marine generators to the U.S. Coast Guard. However, Onan sells to the amateur sailors, too!
The pride of Onan’s marine power generator line-up is undoubtedly its e-series, which is further comprised of the e-QD (electronic quiet diesel) and e-QG (electronic quiet gasoline) branches. These state-of-the-art units range in power from 4 kW to 99 kW, and come with a comprehensive digital display, as well as advanced self-monitoring capabilities – the first among any company’s marine power generators. Plus, like most Onan power generators, the e-series marine generators are designed to run as quietly as any marine generator on the market.
For those on the lookout for more affordable marine power generators, Onan also manufactures the MDKUB. While not as flashy and loaded with gadgets as the marine generators in the e-series, and operating at up to 67 dB, the MDKUB is nonetheless a good value for its price.
Of the types of power generators Onan makes, its marine generators are its top-of-the-line. The company’s long marine generator history, coupled with a determination to innovate, ensure its position as one of the best marine power generator manufacturers in the world.
Posted in Onan, Diesel, Commercial, Emergency, Marine | No Comments »
September 26th, 2006
Heading out into the great outdoors for the manly, man art of roughing it is, well, goofy. Human beings have sought shelter and warmth since the dawn of time. There will be those who point out that people survived just fine during the more primitive periods of world history, but they seldom point out that the quality of life, the prevalence of disease and the shortness of life expectancy was also a major factor of life in those past eras. Oh, and by the way, one of the reasons behind the shortness of life expectancy was because one hundred thousand human beings in Eastern Europe were eaten alive by wolves. Suffice to say, roughing has its negative aspects.
In our modern technological world, there has been invented the portable generator. The portable generator allows one to go out into the woods or any outdoors setting and have an energy source to supply electricity to any appliance one deems necessary for the outdoors excursion. While some may scoff that this turns the traditional camping trip into an overly comfortable one, there are instances where electricity is absolutely necessary. For example, a torrential downpour is really bad weather for a roaring fire, but it is perfect weather for hypothermia. A portable electric generator can provide an energy source for a life saving space heater inside a tent.
But purchasing a generator is not enough; one must purchase a reliable generator. After all, a generator is worthless if it malfunctions. So, the best way to avoid this is to purchase a name brand electric generator and possible the best name brand is Yamaha. While Yamaha is most well known for its motorcycles, it produces an outstanding generator and they can be acquired easily through Yamaha generator online sales.
Buying Yamaha generators online is probably the best option for purchasing generators, as it is highly convenient and avoids all the resultant hassles that derive from standing in line at the store. Buying the Yamaha generators online is also safe as the products ships well and arrive without any damage. Furthermore, online distributors are generally known for their excellent customer service so any problems or concerns that may result can be handled quickly and effectively. Rather than standing in line waiting for a customer service rep at the local store, would not time be better served sending an email or, better yet, utilizing and instant messenger service?
Purchase Yamaha generators online and avoid all the hassles of waiting in line at the stores. Take the time that is saved and tack it on to a camping trip. Time will be better served that way.
Posted in Portable, Yamaha, Diesel, Home, Gas, Commercial, Emergency | No Comments »
September 19th, 2006
Although Kohler Power Systems also offers residential and commercial power generators, their trademark product is the industrial power generator.
Kohler’s industrial generators come in two kinds: gas-fuelled models that are capable of up to 800 kW; and more powerful diesel-fuelled engines that can output nearly 3000 kW. Both types of industrial power generators are also “built tough”, to withstand even the most harsh environmental conditions.
And, for customers who wish to protect the environment, Kohler Power Systems makes industrial power generators that fit within the environmentally-friendly regulations on emissions set out by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
However, what most sets Kohler Power Systems apart from other industrial power generator manufacturers is their dedication to a complete power generation package; whereas another company may sell comparable industrial power generators, Kohler sells industrial power generators that come with unprecedented service and integration.
Dubbed by Kohler Power Systems as Total System Integration, this idea – put into practice – provides for an integrated network of power generation tools, which revolves around an industrial power generator, but also includes a transfer switch, controller, and system monitor. For the ultimate in control, Kohler even allows for the inclusion of a personal computer, to serve as a hub for all the activity.
Posted in Diesel, Propane, Standby, Commercial, Kohler, Natural Gas, Emergency, Transfer Switch | No Comments »
September 8th, 2006
Generac’s trademarked Bi-Fuel technology is a way of hybridizing a power generator’s engine, so that it runs simultaneously on both diesel and natural gas. Although, as Generac is first to admit, the idea to create a dual-fuel engine is not new, Generac is the first manufacturer to apply it to standby power generators – at an affordable price.
The list of benefits to using a Bi-Fuel system over a regular one is substantial, but somewhat diminished when applied to a strictly back-up generator. For example, the Bi-Fuel’s ability to run for a longer consecutive period than a diesel-only engine may be an advantage, but it is not nearly as important for a stand-by generator as it may be for a primary one.
Still, the Bi-Fuel’s potential to cut both fuel and maintenance costs, as well as its reduced air emissions when compared with diesel-only generators, make it stand-out as one of Generac’s best and most marketable innovations. The potential to run the same generator on diesel-only or on up to 90% natural gas – but never just natural gas – provides a comfortable level of flexibility.
It is also important to note that Bi-Fuel is not a specific product; rather, it is a type of engine used in a wide number of Generac’s power generators. Therefore, Bi-Fuel power generators can fit a wide range of power needs.
Posted in Diesel, Home, Generac, Propane, Standby, Natural Gas | No Comments »
August 25th, 2006
Yamaha generators are some of the finest quality generators produced world wide. The Yamaha brand has a great track record of producing generators that consumers can count on to provide energy when they are camping, hiking, on a construction site, or when they need power generated in their home. Most people do not want to take a chance buying a generator that may or may not work when they need it most, and that is why Yamaha is the fastest growing major producer of generators on the market today. Reliability and affordability make Yamaha generators a best buy.
Yamaha offers several different types of generators. The first is portable generators. These are generators of various sizes and capabilities that offer clean power to consumers that need it when they are camping, hiking, or even on a construction jobsite. These portable generators come in handy and generally pay for themselves after one or two uses. Portable generators can be carried quite easily as they are usually lightweight, or can be attached to carts to make their mobility even more convenient. Portable generators are quite affordable, with prices starting right around $500.
Not only does Yamaha provide generators to those that need portability, the company also produces industrial standard generators for homes and businesses. These Yamaha generators can be used when power goes out, as a backup during hurricanes and other natural disasters, or even when building an addition on your home or business. These generators vary in size and power output, with prices increasing as power output increases. You’ll also find that there is a huge difference in fuel capacity, which will usually increase as power output increases. Yamaha produces generators that can be powered by gasoline or diesel fuel, so that consumers can buy the generator that runs on the fuel of their choice. There are a variety of models that run on gasoline, but there is a limited number that run on diesel fuel as they are not as popular. Generators for your home will typically cost anywhere from $600 to over $3,000.
When you buy Yamaha generators you should also consider what you will need for it. Yamaha offers extended warranties, which is a great idea because a generator is an investment. In addition to an extended warranty, consumers may want to buy a generator cover, a battery charger, and replacement batteries so that their generator is always ready to provide the power they need. Yamaha is the most trusted generator on the market, and that is because they offer everything you could need, and then some.
Posted in Portable, Yamaha, Diesel, Home, Gas, Commercial, Emergency | No Comments »
August 23rd, 2006
The deluxe line of generators from Honda has a number of convenience features, such as:
• Simultaneous AC/DC use
• Fuel meter
• Large fuel tank capacity
• Electric start capability (not the EB3000c model)
• Auto-choke
• Fuel solenoid for remote starting capability (not the ES6500 model)
• Voltage regulation for continuous stable power.
The EM3800S has a maximum power output of 3800 watts. The full frame provides protection to the unit. A voltage selection switch allows total generator output to be channeled through each of the 120-volt outlets individually to allow starting power for larger motors. The 2-wheel portability kit comes standard, while electric start and remote start capability are both options.
The EM5000S has a maximum output of 5000 watts. Other than that, it is virtually identical to the EM3800S. The EM5000isAB has a maximum output of 5000 watts of inverter power. Honda’s inverter technology reduces the size and weight of their generators by building the alternator into the engine. The microprocessor converts raw power into ultra-clean power with a sine wave equal to that coming from most household wall outlets, preventing surges which can harm sensitive electronic equipment. The i-monitor on this generator provides information on hours of operation, wattage and engine speed, and diagnostics for troubleshooting. The Eco-Throttle system conserves fuel by adjusting engine speed to the load, which lowers emissions and noise. This unit runs at 62 - 68 dBA, or about the level of a vacuum cleaner. A similar model, the EM7000isAB provides the same features with a maximum of 6500 watts of inverter power.
The 13-HP EM6500S has a maximum power output of 6500 watts. Ideal for emergency home back-up power, this generator can run a 1-HP deep well pump. The voltage selection switch assists with large motor starting. Electric start and a remote start kit are optional.
The ES6500 is a liquid-cooled twin cylinder engine with up to 6500 watts of commercial power. Electric start and automatic idle are standard, as are a temperature alert and 120/240-volt operation. A 2-wheeled Transport Kit is also standard on this model.
Posted in Portable, Honda, Diesel, Home, Gas | No Comments »