A generator is an equipment, which uses electromagnetic induction to alters mechanical energy in to electrical energy. Generators do not have the capacity to make electricity. It simply directs electric charges to pass through the external electrical circuit.



Traditionally generators gain mechanical power from a spinning shaft, which creates charge that is equivalent to the shaft’s torque increased by the angular velocity. Mechanical power can be obtained in many ways such as, stem turbines, waterfalls and gas turbines.

In the year 1831 Michael Faraday introduced the first electric generator, Faraday Disk. The Faraday disk demonstrated the possibility of changing mechanical energy to electric power. Series of inventions followed using the same foundation.

There are two types of generators, which differ in their connection and configuration methods.

Standby

This type of generator has a fix connection to its separate fuel source. It is usually wired along the house’s regular wiring, which requires a professional during installation.

Automated generators are also identified with standby generators. This type of generator automatically starts without any prior configuration. The generator’s service duration is dependent on the amount of fuel that you have.

When choosing which type of fuel should power your generator, the most important factor to consider would be availability. Most standby generators can operate both on LPG or natural gas. You may opt to change from one fuel type to another with an easy field configuration.

Generators run by natural gas usually require a standard fuel pressure to maintain. Some may even require a high amount of pressure that may require a separate fuel tank and some pressure gauge adjustment

Some prefer LPG fueled generators because it is easy to refill and readily available almost everywhere.

Diesel fueled engines are expensive generators and are most applicable for manufacturing activities.

Portable

Portable generators are designed to accommodate short-term connections. Unlike standby generators a portable one does not require any professional assistance to operate or to install as they are made to travel with its user.

These generators are usually provided with on-board containers for its fuel, which may require a time-to-time fuel refill. Other costly portable generators provide a separate fuel container that can hold higher amount of fuel to eliminate time consuming refill.

Portable generators can run in gas, propane, diesel and natural gas depending on what portable generator models you are using.

Generator Safety Tips

Keep your generators outdoors and far from any openings of your house. This will prevent generator fumes from polluting your place.

Set a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm inside your homes. Follow the proper installation instructions from your alarm’s manual. The alarm would warn you if an excessive amount of (CO) is present.

Read operating manual before you run your generator. Check for special safety instructions if any. Then carefully follow all the necessary installation and operating procedures.

Never refuel your generator while it is running. Stop your generator from running first then allow it to cool down before refilling your generator’s fuel tank.

A professional or experienced electrician should facilitate any electrical wiring configuration requirement of a generator.

Check the wattage capacity of your generator before plugging appliances or other electrical device. This will help avoid overloading that can damage your generator.