10 Best Portable Generators (Review) In 2021

Features To Look For In Portable Generators

When looking at the best portable generators, be sure to consider these key features to find the right one for you.

Power Requirements - The wattage of your generator determines how much power it can put out. Depending on what you need your generator for, you can decide based on the amount of juice required. If you need a portable generator for camping, then high wattage is not a high priority. However, if you live in areas with frequent natural disasters, a high wattage generator could be the difference between survival and not.

Noise - Generators of the past were typically loud, so loud you couldn’t have a conversation anywhere near them. Modern models of portable generators, however, are more quiet, and while there’s still a range of decibel levels, they are nothing like those of the past.

Consider where you’re using the generator. If using it on a campsite, other campers may not be happy about a disrupting generator rumbling while they’re trying to relax in the evening. If you’re using it overnight, you don’t want to be disturbed by the generator when you’re trying to sleep.

Fuel Efficiency - A fuel efficient portable generator is an attractive option as it allows you access to power for longer without overdoing and refilling it too frequently, especially in disaster scenarios. Large tanks or battery charges with a consistently steady power output are desirable.

Run Time - After a disaster, you may need your portable generator to get you through at least the next few days. A short run time isn’t ideal for these situations but it may be acceptable for short camping trips, especially if you’re only using it for a few hours each night, and there’ll be some left over for next time.

Ease of Use - No one likes a product that’s too complicated and portable generators which are easy to start and easy to refill are essential for you to get the most from them.

Portability - By the nature of being portable generators, these products are easy to transport, but some are easier than others. Some will come with wheels and handles for easy moving wherever you need while others are small enough to carry using a built-in handle or in your arms. Consider that smaller generators will often have less power though.

Number of Outlets - Pick the number of outlets to reflect how many people will use the generator to save arguments and also make sure everyone’s included. More outlets gives you a wider range of powering options, which is necessary in a blackout, having too many connected devices and electronics will drain the fuel or battery faster.

Emissions - As the world becomes more focused on reducing emissions, you may want one that minimizes pollution. Inverter and battery-powered generators are the best for reducing such emissions, but they rarely provide as much power.

Types Оf Generators

Depending on what you need a generator for you can select one of the many types to suit you.

Gas-Powered Generators

Gas-powered generators are the most versatile and common, they are easy to transport and with specially designed frames are extremely quiet. The fuel is the easiest to find, making them the most reliable, but the shelf life of such fuel isn’t long, which means you may end up wasting it if not used frequently. Unused fuel in a generator left dormant too long (over 3 months) can damage the engine.

Diesel-Powered Generators

A portable diesel generator is durable and typically run for the longest although this isn’t a set rule. There is no need for circuit balance, so there’s less risk of overpowering the unit, meaning you can use it with a variety of applications safely. They are powerful enough to keep refrigerators running after a blackout but diesel doesn’t last as long and they are often more expensive.

Propane-Powered Generators

The favored generator of Hank Hill, a propane generator is sometimes preferred over diesel and gas despite perhaps not offering as much power. Because propane has a longer shelf life, you won’t feel you’ve wasted it if you don’t use it as quickly as you expected. However, propane is heavier, and so it adds weight to your portable propane generator, making it less portable than other options.

Solar-Powered Generators

Perhaps best quiet portable generator, a solar-powered generator is emission-free and environmentally friendly. To counteract the potential for no sunlight to charge, though, they also may have an additional charging port for you to plug into an AC socket.

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators work on AC power, outputting this, converting it to DC and then inverting it back to AC. They are one of the most energy efficient options available and are lightweight enough for easy transportation in your car, boat, or RV.

The Placement Аnd Operation of Your Generator

To ensure safety and simple operation, the placement of your portable generator is important. The potentially dangerous fumes mean you should not run it too close to the house and always in a dry location as moisture can damage the electronics and other parts.

To ensure consistent performance, check on the fuel and oil levels regularly. While some generators have an automatic shutoff system if the oil gets too low, this is not true of all models.

When starting it, there should be an ample amount of fuel (or charge) stored in the tank (or battery). To prevent damage and overworking, allow the engine to run and warm up for a few minutes before connecting it to anything.

Also, switch off the generator if you’re not using it. This isn’t just to save on fuel or battery charge but also to prevent unnecessary operation. It should also be off when refueling. Flip the circuit breaker switch into the OFF position and then turn the machine off at the power switch to avoid any short circuiting or overloading.

It’s always advised to keep adequate replacement fuel close by, but remember fuel has an expiration date and you should use it up before this date occurs. If you don’t, then do not use the fuel in the generator as it can cause damage to the unit.

Portable Generator FAQ

Q: What are the most common uses of portable generators?

A: You can use a portable generator for many things, but they are used most commonly:

• During blackouts
• Following extreme weather such as storms or hurricanes
• When camping
• At outdoor events including sports
• For farming
• On off-grid construction sites

Q: How big should my portable generator be?

A: The size of your generator depends on what you expect to use it for. If you live alone or only plan on using it for quick camping trips or watching sports, then a small power generator is sufficient. However, for large families or extended trips into the wilderness, consider a larger generator to power everything you need sufficiently.

Q: How do you safely run a portable generator?

A: While portable generators are not hugely unsafe to use (the opposite, in fact) misuse can quickly lead to danger, especially if you’ve never used one before. To ensure you and those in your party aren’t responsible for unsafe generator operation you can follow these tips:

• Only operate at a safe distance from yours and others’ homes
• Never use in an enclosed space such as a building or garage
• Do not attach it directly to the main wiring of your home
• Use a heavy duty extension cord attached to an AC or DC outlet
• Ensure combined wattage is not too much for the cord or outlet to handle
• Switch it off and allow it to cool down before refilling the fuel tank

Sources:

1. 8 Features to Look for In a Portable Generator - Urban Survival Site
2. Generator Types and Maintenance Guide - Grainger Industrial Supply
3. Gas, Diesel, Propane, What Generator Fuel is Best? - Rational Preparedness
4. How to Use a Generator - WikiHow
5. Best Use for a Portable Generator - Ever Unfolding
6. How to Use a Portable Generator Properly - Today’s Homeowner