When buying a diesel generator make a list of the lights and equipment that will be running off the generator. Total the wattage requirements to determine the capacity of the generator. Compare wattage requirement and the price of the generator. If the generator is to be connected directly to the electrical system, then it is advisable to hire a qualified technician to install the transfer switch. Ensure that the generator has adequate storage capacity, longer usage time at a stretch, overload protection and auto shut off facility.

Portable generators are critical to have in emergencies or for use in areas where there is no traditional electricity. Always keep in mind there are safety issues related to the proper use of the generators. Portable generators can cause electrocution if they are left in the rain or sitting in water. Keep the generator under a canopy where it is protected, but not totally enclosed. It must still have adequate ventilation. Never touch the generator when you are standing in water or your hands are wet. Never run extension cords through water of any kind. Keep all unauthorized people away from the unit while it is operating.

Make sure all extension cords are of high enough rating for whatever load they are to carry. Also check for fraying, exposed wires or areas where the cord may be underneath something else and is hard to see. Many people will put cords under rugs or furniture, but this can harm the cord and hide any defects in the cord.

Check cords when the portable generator is operating to make sure they are not overheating. Overheating is an indication of too much load for the cord or else damaged wires inside the cord. Even though the cords may be rated for the load you have, if compressors are turning on and off, the load may be temporarily increasing beyond the rating.

Even with the best alternative system such as solar energy or wind energy, sometimes the weather may not cooperate and land us in darkness when the main power source fails. To keep our power system running, a backup engine generator may be just the thing. For businesses with sensitive computer networks, or homes with critical medical equipment, a back up power system such as a diesel generator may be necessary even when grid power is available.

When buying a diesel generator make a list of the lights and equipment that will be running off the generator. Total the wattage requirements to determine the capacity of the generator. Compare wattage requirement and the price of the generator. If the generator is to be connected directly to the electrical system, then it is advisable to hire a qualified technician to install the transfer switch. Ensure that the generator has adequate storage capacity, longer usage time at a stretch, overload protection and auto shut off facility.

Here is an example of a electric generator you can find at XG Power. This one is a 6700-watt Electric Generator 110 / 240 volt with electric start

Our generator packs plenty of power to run heavy-load equipment like heaters or air compressors. Auto decompression ensures easy starting. Dependable, maintenance-free ignition and brushless alternator. Large, super-quiet muffler. Black, tubular steel frame and easy-to-read fuel gauge. This super-fuel-efficient generator gets up to 11 hours of continuous operation on a tank of gas.

Generator Specifications:

* Type : Brushless AVR - Single Phase
* AC Frequency : 60 HZ
* Maximum AC Output : 6700 Watts
* Rated AC Output : 6000 Watts
* Rated / Maximum AC Current : 50.0 / 55.0 Amps @ 120 Volts
* Driving Method : Direct
* Two 110 volt and two 220 volt outlets

Engine specifications:

* Type : 4-Stroke, OHV, Air Cooled
* Rated Horsepower : 12HP @ 3,600 rpm
* Bore x Stroke : 66mm x 50mm
* Displacement : 357cc / 12HP
* Cooling : Forced Air
* Lubrication : Wet Sump
* Oil Capacity : 0.63 qt
* Starting Method : Recoil
* Ignition System : Transistor Controlled
* Fuel Tank Capacity : 5.5 gal (20.8 Litres)
* Recommended Fuel : Unleaded Regular
* Continuous Operating Hours : 11.3
* Dry Weight : 185 lb (84kgs)
* Noise Level @ 25 ft : 73.5 dBA
* Package size: 27 in.L x 21 in.W x 22.5 in.H