Can you cope with a power outage? During an emergency, generators can keep the lights on and power business operations. Electric generators convert mechanical energy into electricity, so they can supply power anywhere, anytime. Generators can be used for a variety of purposes depending on their type. In comparison to powering an industrial-size business operation, for instance, powering a home is quite different. The importance of knowing the different types of generators before buying one cannot be overstated. You can use one of these generators for whatever purpose you need.
- Standby Generators create enough electricity to power an entire home, from lights to air conditioning and more. In case of a power outage, standby generators can turn on automatically.
- Portable Generators are small enough to take on a camping trip or store in your car for emergencies.
- Inverter generators use a specialized process to create clean energy. This specialized process makes inverter generators quieter, more fuel-efficient and safer for charging sensitive electronics like laptops or phones.
- Induction generators work by creating electromagnetic fields that turn an internal rotor at varying speeds. In order to start this process, induction generators require a large amount of mechanical energy. For this reason, induction generators are most often used in wind turbines and mini hydro plants.
- Industrial generators can operate much like any standard generator, but with a noticeable difference in size and durability. These generators are so large they are often transported by crane or forklift. They can produce up to two megawatts of power and are made to withstand weather conditions, transportation and other strains found at industrial plants.
- Gasoline generators are popular for both at-home and commercial use because they tend to be affordable when compared to other generators.
- Natural Gas Generators are initially cost-effective but may end up costing more overall with time. Natural gas generators connect to gas pipelines, which means they will never need to be refilled.
- Diesel Generators tend to be less expensive than gasoline, so the cost of replacing diesel fuel during maintenance is lower. Winter diesel fuel can be used in cold weather to prevent freezing.
- Biodiesel Generators are perfect for those who want the benefits of a diesel generator that’s more environmentally friendly. Biodiesel generators use a mixture of diesel and other components like vegetable oil or animal fat. This helps reduce the use of nonrenewable fuel sources while producing lower emissions.
- Emulsified Diesel Generators run on a mixture of diesel and water, making them even more environmentally friendly than biodiesel generators. These generators face similar advantages and disadvantages as diesel and biodiesel generators. They are a cost-effective option in the long run and produce lower emissions. However, emulsified diesel may be unavailable during a power outage.
