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Are you a construction contractor in need of a power source to power all your equipment? Are you undertaking an interior renovation, but are unable to connect to electric power? It would be best if you had a portable generator.
Different worksites require different sizes of generators. Based on the information we have accessed and analyzed, we found at most three kinds of generators to consider:
1. Minimal Backups (1,000 to 5500 W)
If you carry out many small tasks or those that only require two or three powerful tools running simultaneously, these units will work for you. They can be moved throughout the office quickly and won't take up much space.
2. Semi-Professional Generators (3,500 to 10,000 W)
These units can be used by homeowners who require a premium power source for backup and also contractors who need frequent usage of power tools at their worksite. Semi-professional generators typically have high-end engines, include higher-quality components than smaller models, and offer several additional ideal features for contractors.
3. Heavy-Duty Professional Equipment (2,500 to 15,000 W)
These are perfect for construction sites. While professional heavy-duty machines might not be as mobile as other models, they are designed to withstand the harsh conditions that a construction site can bring.
They can provide steady power for long shifts and offer all the features that any contractor requires. There are plenty of choices in each category that you can choose from.
This article will help you make an educated decision in your purchase and pick the generator that is the best fit for your business site.
Consider Your Power Needs
The first thing to do is determine the amount of power you require. It is easy to do this by making a list of all the electrical appliances and power tools you’ll be using simultaneously during the course of your project.
After you have compiled a list of all the equipment, you must take into consideration the portability and the dimensions of the generator. In general, there are two primary categories of machines that can be used by contractors:
1. Portable Generators that Play Wonder
Portable generators are tiny and small machines. They typically offer a moderate level of power (between 6 and 28 kW) They are easily movable, can be stored away from the eye, and are less expensive. These characteristics make portable generators an ideal choice for medium and small-sized projects. With the help of parallel kits, it is possible to expand and double the total power that is available.
2. Mobile Generators that Offer High Reliability
Mobile generators can also be transported around, but they're much bigger in size. They typically provide a larger power capacity than the portable ones (between 8 and 2500 kW) and they are set up on trailers. Due to this, portable generators are ideal for applications that are not on roads. These generators are sturdy and portable, often weatherproof, but require plenty of space and are more costly.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Generator
Many people are tempted to purchase an electric generator that can serve as a backup power source without thinking about its disadvantages. Even though contractors have extensive knowledge of portable generators, we're still adding this list of the most frequently overlooked requirements of buying and using generators.
- Regular Maintenance
Many contractors are unaware of the importance of having a proper maintenance plan for your equipment in advance. Because of this, it can reduce the chances of unexpected downtimes to almost none.
Additionally, maintenance should be carried out by the right professionals. Suppose, you own a generator that is heavy-duty at your worksite. In that case, you should hand over the implementation of your maintenance plan to a company that employs highly skilled and certified mechanics.
- Storage Requirements
It might not be as simple as it seems initially. The most practical method of storing your generator is to buy an accessory wheel and folding handle that can fold to move the machine around.
Additionally, take into consideration that if you plan to keep it in storage for an extended period, you must either remove all gas from the generator or include a fuel stabilizer inside the tank and allow it to run for a time to ensure that it will turn bad and cause gum deposits that can block the carburetor. When you are draining your fuel, you'll see a switch that can be operated manually.
- Local Laws and Regulations
Before purchasing the generator, it's always best to know if some local laws or rules restrict their availability or use. Certain states, municipalities, and regions limit the maximum permitted noise, while other areas limit the maximum permissible amount of air pollution.
Ask the dealer in your area and they may be able to help you with the laws and regulations that your generator must meet.
- The Altitude of Job Site
Many people do not realize that the altitude of the job site dramatically impacts the generator's efficiency. If you plan to utilize your machine at higher altitudes, it will experience lower performance. It is an all-encompassing rule you should be aware of.
- Carbon Monoxide
And, unfortunately, there still are people being affected by carbon monoxide poisoning caused by improper use of generators every year. They don't know (or underestimate) that the fumes produced by their generators can be poisonous. The most dangerous part? Carbon monoxide has no odor and is a colorless gas. This is why it is essential to never operate any generator inside a closed space or near other homes (including windows and doors that are not closed). Unfortunately, the detection of this gas is virtually impossible without carbon monoxide detectors.
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