Portable generators are internal combustion engines used to generate electricity. They are useful when temporary or remote power is needed.
The problem with most portable back-up generator is that they run on gas. Gasoline is often hard to get when the power's down. The problem with storing gas is that it does not store well, even with fuel stabilizer added. Three months is the longest you probably want to leave gas in storage. After that, you risk a gummed-up carburetor. Which means it might not run.
One option is to convert a generator to operate on multiple fuels - gasoline, propane and natural gas. This has a few advantages: while everyone else is in line for gasoline, you can just buy another bottle of propane and be on your way. Propane stores practically indefinitely. Just ensure you keep the valve from rusting up. Buy a few 20 pound (grill-size) tanks, or one of the 100 pound cylinders, in advance and store them out of the weather. A conversion kit can be found at online outlets (i.e. search for 'portable generator propane conversion kit').
Hazards Associated with Generators:
Shock and Electrocution
• Never attach a generator directly to the electrical system of a home, office, trailer, etc. unless a qualified electrician has properly installed it.
• Always plug electrical appliances directly into the generator using the manufacturer's supplied cords (or grounded extension cords (3-pronged).
• Keep a generator dry; do not use it in the rain or wet conditions. If needed, protect a generator with a canopy.
• Power off and do not use any electrical equipment that has strange odors or begins smoking.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning
• Never use a generator indoors or in other enclosed spaces.
• Place a generator outside away from doors, windows, and vents.
• If you or others show symptoms of CO poisoning- dizziness, headaches, nausea, tiredness-while the generator is running, get to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention.
Fire Hazards
• Generators become hot while running and remain hot for long periods after they are stopped.
• Before refueling, shut down the generator and allow it to cool.
• Keep fuel containers away from flame producing and heat generating devices.
• Do not store generator fuels in your home.
Loss of Electrical Power
Power outages are a common occurrence. Something as simple as a squirrel blowing a local transformer (happened to us a few years ago) to a rain, snow, or ice storm pulling down power lines (we've also experienced these) to earthquakes, tornadoes, or hurricanes cause neighborhoods and entire regions of the country to lose power.
No doubt you've experienced these annoying outages. Sometimes they can be fun for a short period of time. Since the TV's off, get out the candles or oil lamps (do you have any?) and play games with the kids. But, when the power is out for hours, especially during a cold winter's night, they are more than annoying. They can be terribly uncomfortable and even dangerous to your health. Even if you have a wood-burning stove for heat, what will happen to your refrigerated food? It will go bad in a few hours. How will you buy food when the electronic cash registers at the store don't work? How will you buy gas when the electric pumps don't work?
Get a generator, even if it only runs on gas. Just keep a fresh supply on hand, or get the conversion kit to have fuel options.
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