Rated watts describe the amount of power the portable generator can produce continuously. Maximum wattage is the power that the generator can produce for short periods of time. Motor starting is a good example of maximum wattage requirements.
Generator Buying Guide
Generators are great to have when there is a power outage at home, on camping trips or on a job site. Learn more about the different types of generators including Genarac standby generators, inverter generators and portable generators, plus find out which one will work best for you!
What to Look for When Buying a Generator
- Use: Generators are used for backup power during emergencies, on job sites, or during leisure activities like camping or tailgating. There are two types of generators: standby and portable.
- Wattage: The wattage needed for your generator is dependent on what type of generator you need and how you will be using it. Usually the higher the wattage of the generator, the more you can power.
- Runtime: Keep in mind that runtime is usually quoted at an average fraction load because most people do not run their generator at full load all the time.
Common Uses of Generators
Home
Standby generators are best for powering an entire home, or necessary areas of a house during emergency situations. It is a great option for the elderly or disabled people who may be more inconvenienced by a power outage.
Leisure Activities
Portable generators are great for outdoor activities when a power source might be hard to find. They are a great option when camping, boating, tailgating, or RVing.
Work
Both standby and portable generators are good options for the workplace. Standby generators are good when powering essential computers, networks, and phones, while portable generators can provide temporary job site electricity for tools and lights.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators have smaller wattage capability but are a great option for those looking for generator that runs quiet and on clean power. Known for their small size, inverter generators convert AC power to DC, providing a cleaner and quieter power source for camping, boating, or RVing.
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SHOP INVERTER GENERATORS
Portable Generators
Basics of Portable Generators
Portable generators run on gas and can be used to supply a limited amount of power during a storm, on a job site, or on a camping trip. They are a great option if you do not want to invest in a permanent backup generator. Portable generators provide power for outside activities and protect from power outages in the home.
Note: They must always be used outside, and it is important to follow the generator manufacturer's operating, maintenance, and safety instructions.
SHOP ALL PORTABLE GENERATORS
Note: They must always be used outside, and it is important to follow the generator manufacturer's operating, maintenance, and safety instructions.
SHOP ALL PORTABLE GENERATORS
Portable Generator Features
Portable generators have many features including, circuit breaker protected outlets to guard against overload, larger fuel tanks for extra run time, low-tone muffler for quiet operation, fold-down handles and wheel kits for easy portability, and integrated fuel gauges to help prevent power interruptions.
Standby Generators
Basics of Standby Generators
Standby generators are a perfect option for backup power during power outages and storms. They automatically provide power to the home until the outage is over. Standby generations use an automatic transfer switch to connect the generator to your existing electrical system.
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SHOP STANDBY GENERATORS
Automatic Transfer Switch
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is the core of the generator system. It is an electrical panel that safely connects a generator to your homes electrical circuits.
Note: Do not attempt to install a transfer switch yourself, as it may require local permits and must be installed by a professional electrician.
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Note: Do not attempt to install a transfer switch yourself, as it may require local permits and must be installed by a professional electrician.
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Options to Consider
There are a couple of options to consider when purchasing a standby generator. Essential circuit coverage covers only the most important needs of your home, allowing you to choose what will be backed up during a power outage. Managed whole-house coverage is for smaller generators and is paired with a power management switch that provides whole-house coverage by managing the power requirements of individual appliances. Complete whole-house coverage provides complete coverage for all of your circuits, which means when the power goes out, everything comes on and stays on.
Installation
Consider a standby generator from Generac - a standby generator is permanently installed outside your home to provide 24/7 backup power. It runs on your home's natural gas service, with propane models also available. Visit your Lowe's store for product and installation details
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LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR INSTALLATION SERVICES
Generator Accessories
Generator Covers
Covers will keep your generator protected from the natural elements like weather and UV rays.
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SHOP COVERS
Power Cords
Power cords are an essential part of powering your portable or standby generator. Make sure you follow the manufacturer guidelines before you purchase a power cord.
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SHOP POWER CORDS
Maintenance Kits
Maintenance Kits are a good way to keep your standby generators running smoothly. They usually include an air filter, oil filter, spark plugs, and more.
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SHOP MAINTENANCE KITS
Generator Safety Tips
These tips are merely supplemental and are not intended to substitute reading the owner's manual.
Before reading these tips, always read the owner's manual and instructions for your generator, which also reference generator safety tips. Carefully follow all instructions and warnings to safely start and operate the generator. Do NOT cut corners when it comes to safety.
Before reading these tips, always read the owner's manual and instructions for your generator, which also reference generator safety tips. Carefully follow all instructions and warnings to safely start and operate the generator. Do NOT cut corners when it comes to safety.
- Never run a generator in an enclosed space or indoors. Exhaust contains carbon monoxide, a deadly poison gas you cannot smell, taste, or see.
- Don't run a portable generator in the rain.
- Before refuelling, turn off the generator and let it cool down.
- Avoid electrical hazards like connecting a portable electric generator directly to your household wiring.
- Keep children and pets away from generators at all times.
- Inspect the generator regularly, and contact the nearest authorized dealer for parts.
- Make sure the generator is properly grounded. Check and follow all applicable federal, provincial and local regulations related to grounding.
- Use proper power cords like heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords with a wire gauge.
NEVER OPERATE A GENERATOR INSIDE, INCLUDING THE BASEMENT AND GARAGE
Always operate a portable generator in dry areas 30 feet away from the home and far away from open doors, windows and vents. Improper use of portable generators can cause death by carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide symptoms include dizziness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting and death. Make sure to always have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Portable Generator FAQ
Yes. You can plug household appliances and devices into a portable generator, but not all of them simultaneously.
Note: Never plug your generator into an outlet in your home or business. If you would like to connect a portable generator to your home's wiring system, have a certified electrician install an approved manual power transfer switch in compliance with electrical codes.
Note: Never plug your generator into an outlet in your home or business. If you would like to connect a portable generator to your home's wiring system, have a certified electrician install an approved manual power transfer switch in compliance with electrical codes.
A transfer switch allows you to connect a portable generator to your home's electrical system, while safely disconnecting you from the utility grid. This will eliminate any chance of a dangerous back-feed.
A back-feed occurs when a generator is plugged into an electrical outlet, feeding power back onto utility lines. This creates a life-threatening hazard for any utility employees working to restore power to these lines.
This can be avoided by not plugging your generator directly into the electrical outlet of your home. Portable generators must be plugged into the appliances themselves.
This can be avoided by not plugging your generator directly into the electrical outlet of your home. Portable generators must be plugged into the appliances themselves.
Yes. For safety, the generator must be properly grounded. If the generator is not grounded, you run the risk of electrocution. Check and adhere to all applicable federal, provincial and local regulations relating to grounding.
No. Never run the generator in the home or an enclosed area. Portable generators are designed to run outside where there is plenty of ventilation. Generator exhaust, like that of all gasoline engines, contains poisonous carbon monoxide.
Portable generators should not be used during rain and need to be protected from the elements when not in use to prevent shorting and rusting. NEVER run a generator indoors.
Check your owner's manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.
You can purchase parts through any authorized dealer.
Standby Generator FAQ
You can simplify the job of sizing a standby generator by matching the circuits between your home's main electrical panel and the generator system's load centre. On the other hand, figuring out the specific wattage requirements of appliances and other items in your home can be difficult since they are plugged into outlets all over the house. By identifying the circuits to backup, you can easily decide how large a generator is needed and what model will best fit those needs. All the identified circuits will have backup power available. A licensed electrician should determine the electrical load and identify the circuits to back up.
Aluminium and composite enclosures are naturally rust and corrosion resistant. For salt air or high humidity conditions, aluminium or composite is highly recommended to ensure decades of worry-free service.
No — the generator fuel costs would be much more expensive than buying power from the utility company since their cost to produce electricity is divided among thousands of customers.
As an option, manufacturers offer systems pre-packaged and pre-wired with comprehensive installation instructions. You could perform the simpler site preparation steps and have a professional make the electrical panel and fuel connections, or you could complete the entire installation yourself. However, for safety reasons and to ensure adherence to all local, provincial and national electrical codes, particularly for non-pre-wired or larger systems, manufacturers recommend you use an authorized dealer or licensed contractor.
Yes, simple maintenance is required. All generators require periodic oil and filter changes to ensure maximum performance for years of reliable service. Preventative maintenance kits are available. Refer to the owner's manual for routine maintenance procedures and schedules.
Yes, service/maintenance contracts may be offered by your local installer/dealer for a worry-free ownership experience. You can inquire with them to determine availability and cost, which will be based on the level of service you require. Cost will also vary based on hourly labour rates in your local area.
Runtime will vary with the size of the generator and the appliance load being placed on it.
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