Frequently Asked Questions

We carry portable, inverter, standby/home backup, and commercial/industrial units.

Add up running watts for the devices you’ll power, account for starting (surge) watts on motors, then add ~20% headroom. For whole-home or business, we recommend a load calculation by a licensed electrician.

Portable: cost-effective, manual start, higher noise.
Inverter: cleaner power (low THD), quieter, fuel-efficient.
Standby: permanently installed, automatic operation via transfer switch, powers part or all of a building.

Gasoline: widely available, shorter storage life.
Diesel: efficient, durable for heavy loads.
Propane/Natural Gas: cleaner burning, long storage (propane), continuous supply (natural gas). Choose based on availability, runtime goals, and maintenance preferences.

Portables typically run 6–20 hours per tank at 25–50% load. Standby units can run for extended periods with proper fueling and scheduled oil changes. Always follow the manual for service intervals.

Consumption depends on load, engine size, and fuel type. Expect significantly higher use near maximum load. Check each model’s fuel consumption chart.

Inverter generators and many standby units provide clean power (typically <5% THD) suitable for sensitive electronics. Standard portables may have higher THD.

Use a properly sized transfer switch or interlock installed by a licensed electrician.

An ATS senses outages and automatically starts the generator and switches your selected circuits or whole home to generator power, then back to utility when restored.

Outdoors on a level pad with required clearances from walls, openings, and property lines. Follow manufacturer clearances and local code for exhaust and ventilation.

NEVER. Operate outdoors only, far from doors, windows, and vents. Use carbon monoxide alarms.

Noise is rated in dB(A) at a given distance (often 7 m/23 ft). Inverter models are quieter; enclosures and placement can reduce perceived noise.

Start with no load connected, let it warm up, then connect loads. Before shutdown, disconnect loads, let it run a few minutes to cool, then stop.

Prioritize essentials (medical devices, refrigeration, sump pumps, communications), then add additional loads gradually to avoid overloading.

Typical: initial oil change after 5–30 hours, then every 50–100 hours for gasoline portables; diesel intervals can be longer. Standby units often self-exercise weekly and need periodic service. Always follow the manual.

For seasonal storage, add fuel stabilizer and run to circulate, or drain tank/carburetor per manual. Store in a dry, ventilated area; maintain batteries with a smart charger.

Recoil: manual pull.
Electric: key or push button.
Remote: start/stop from a distance.

Common causes: overload, short circuits, faulty cords, or clogged air/fuel filters. Reduce load, inspect cables, and perform basic maintenance. If issues persist, seek service.

Possible voltage/frequency fluctuations or an undersized unit. Verify load size, use an AVR/inverter model, and have the unit serviced if needed.

Fuel level/quality, battery charge, choke position, air filter, spark plug, and low oil shutdown.