Portable Gasoline Generator:
Understanding the Basics

Generators are powered by a variety of fuels, and one of the most commonly used is gasoline. Most homeowners favor this option for a number of reasons, but before buying any portable gasoline generator, it would make a lot of sense if you’ll consider first its basics.

The portable gasoline generator is the most familiar type of generator that most homeowners purchase for several purposes. It is said to be available for recreational vehicles (RVs), marine, and even backup applications. The fuel it uses is very accessible and inexpensive compared to other fuel sources.

Although that common, the price of this type of gasoline generator often varies depending on the components used. For instance, a gasoline generator that uses a water-cooled and multi-cylinder engine comes relatively pricey, perhaps for the fact that it runs with superior quality. This option is also runs with a stable temperature and is less noisy compared to the cheaper variety, the air-cooled, single cylinder power unit.

It is also worth noting that most of these portable generators sold in the market these days come with certain features that are good enough to carry and generate quality power. These additional features include electric starter, overhead valves, and high temperature or low oil shut down. The speed of the engine used also differs according to the quality and brand. Sometimes, these factors are what determine the life span of the gasoline generator.

Regardless of being inexpensive and efficient, a portable gasoline type of generator also has its disadvantages. First and foremost, gasoline can last for only six months in a shelf. To prolong its shelf life, most people add some kind of “stabilizer” to even out the fuel. Other than that, gasoline is also highly inflammable. Storing it near a power line can be dangerous. And, it is common for this kind of portable generator to require regular maintenance, not to mention the possibility of condensation glitches during colder months where the fuel tends to form gummy deposits.

Portable gasoline generators generally include the ones run by propane gas, or those that are powered by natural gas. The former is commonly used when there is available supply of fuel. It requires less maintenance and also burns cleaner. Perhaps the only downside of this alternative is that it runs less efficiently, producing lesser amount of energy than the diesel-powered generator.

Natural gas, on the other hand, is convenient and highly available. It is convenient in the sense that it can easily be piped through the generator itself to eliminate refueling. The generator run by this type of gas also stays longer, burns cleaner, and can even be left with lesser maintenance and care.

The portable type of gasoline generator is widely available these days with lots of companies designing and manufacturing these power units. When choosing one, all that you need to do is to determine exactly what type of gasoline generator you want and how much you can afford to take. Also, note everything that you need to know about the units by reading the manufacturer’s manual to better understand it.