What is a Generator & What Are the Different Types of Generators?

The winter months are upon us and with them come snowstorms, power outages, and life-disrupting inconveniences. This is why it’s important for homeowners to consider investing in a generator – a machine that turns mechanical energy into electrical energy and provides electricity when you are not connected to the power grid. But with all the different types of generators out there, which one should you get for your home? Let's break down the different types of generators and help you decide which one is best for you.

Whole house generators are powered by natural gas, diesel or propane fuel, and they provide enough power to run your entire home. They're more expensive than portable generators, but they're also much more powerful and reliable. The automatic transfer switch ensures that when your power goes out, your generator will kick in almost immediately and restore power to your home without any interruption.

Portable generators are smaller than their whole house counterparts but still offer plenty of power to keep some lights and appliances running during an outage. They usually run off gasoline or diesel fuel, depending on the model size. The biggest advantage of these units is their portability—however, because they rely on gasoline for fuel they can produce hazardous fumes. Portable generators also tend to have fewer outlets than whole house models so there may be some limitations as far as what kinds of appliances/equipment can be plugged into them at once.

Inverter generators are essentially smaller versions of whole house units that use digital technology instead of mechanical parts to convert DC electricity into AC electricity (which is what most appliances require). Inverters are quieter than other types of generators and are better at keeping voltage levels consistent so that devices like computers stay safe from surges or drops in power supply (as long as the surge protector is working properly). Additionally, inverter generators use less fuel than other types of units.

Homeowners should consider all their options when choosing which type of generator is right for their home in order to ensure reliable backup power during an emergency situation or prolonged power outage caused by bad weather conditions or other events beyond our control. Whether it's a whole house generator, portable generator, or inverter generator – each has its own advantages depending on how much power you need and how often you plan on using it. With careful research and understanding what each type offers, homeowners can find the perfect solution for their needs!