What is a power generator?

A power generator is, as it were, a mini-power plant for the production of electric power.

You could also say that it is the counterpart of an electric motor. While the electric motor converts electrical energy into kinetic energy, the generator generates electrical energy by driving kinetic energy.

Why do I need an electricity generator?

A power generator is normally used when there are otherwise no sockets, when a simple cable drum is no longer sufficient, when several devices have to be used at the same time or as an emergency generator in the event of a power failure.

Which power generator do I need?

The choice of your generator is individual and depends on your needs. We are happy to offer you decision support:

  • For use in private households, we recommend relatively small, usually petrol generators with a maximum power of 1 KW. With these generators you can easily control lighting fixtures, multimedia devices, simple power tools and similar devices. These generators are small and handy, but are not suitable for home emergency power supply.
  • The use of petrol generators in closed rooms is not permitted by law!
  • Medium-sized gasoline-powered generators have an output of approximately 2 to 3 KW and are suitable for use in private households and larger buildings. Consumers such as washing machines, tumble dryers and other larger appliances can thus be operated at least individually. This power generator is also small and handy, but not suitable for home emergency power supply. This also applies here:
  • The use of petrol generators in closed rooms is prohibited!
  • Medium-sized, diesel-powered power generators have a power of 5KW and can be used indoors. Diesel generators are already heavier and cumbersome.
  • Stationary large diesel generators are suitable for effective domestic and commercial emergency power supply, but should only be set up and installed by specialized companies.
  • The type of device your desired generator is suitable for depends on 2 factors:
  • The current or voltage quality already mentioned
  • The power of the generator in combination with the consumption of the appliance to be connected (both in watts).
  • As a rule, the output should be a good third higher than the consumption to ensure smooth operation.
  • In winter, however, caution is advised when using a generator! If it is wet, it can cause a short circuit.
  • Before deciding on an appliance, think carefully about how often or how long you intend to use the generator. Cheaper models may be sufficient if you only want to use the device for a few hours.
  • However, if the emergency generator has to deliver higher performance, ie if you want to use it regularly for several hours in a row, then a more expensive brand model is well worth it. These are usually much more sustainable than the economic models and pay for themselves.
  • If you mainly want to use the generator at home and in the event of a power failure, keep in mind that many household appliances react sensitively to the quality of the electricity supplied.
  • The sound quality of your stereo system, PCs and TVs requires a high quality voltage and a very stable frequency to work efficiently. The inverter generator described above is recommended for this purpose.

For owners of mobile homes, boats and caravans, or on construction sites, power generators can be worth their weight in gold. Power generators under 1000 can also serve their purpose in leisure or hobby areas such as camping sites or outdoor parties.

A power generator always brings independence. Power generators are also used in agriculture, for example to supply electricity to pastures.

Emergency power generators have the job of providing you with a continuous power supply. In the event of a power failure, the emergency generator automatically takes over the production of electricity. Generators are therefore indispensable for certain companies: in hospitals, IT companies or laboratories, for example, a power outage can cause serious damage or even cost human lives.

Christophe Rude
Christophe Rude
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