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last Updated on September 17, 2021 by
portable generators are a great way to provide electricity and ability for your job site, campsite or any other rate where you need an alternate source of energy.
You may be wondering what kind of accessories are available for your portable generator. How do you know if you need one ?
Generator accessories provide a number of benefits that can enhance your generator ’ second performance, increase its life, and make it easier to use. Of course, the accessories you need for your portable generator will largely depend on your situation .
thus first, you have to define your needs. Where will you operate the generator ? Will you be moving it around a lot ? Will you be maintaining it yourself ? Is it besides forte ?
The noise decrease capabilities of a silencer, for example, allow you to operate the car without disturbing neighbors while weatherproof covers shield against harsh elements such as rain and snow .
Depending on your needs, some accessories are required to ensure safe operation, such as a transfer substitution if you plan to connect your portable generator to your home ’ s electric panel. early accessories offer public toilet by increasing mobility, such as a wheel kit out .
In this article, we ’ ll go over the most utilitarian accessories you can purchase for your portable generator, how they work, and why you might need them .
The Top 11 Most Useful Portable Generator Accessories
1. Transfer Switch
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Connecticut Electric EGS107501G2KIT EmerGen EGS107501G2 Manual Transfer Switch Kit 30 Amp, 10-Circuit, 7500 Watts, For Portable Generator
- FOR PORTABLE GENERATOR: This transfer kit is designed for use with emergency generators that have up to a 30 amp output, Nema L1430. With easy-to-follow instructions, this unit is incredibly easy to install and is a cheaper alternative to running your portable generator without it.
A transplant interchange allows your home to transfer from one electricity reservoir to another. It ’ s an substantive function of standby generators ( or solid house generators ) but can be a good accessory to have for portable generators .
In the United States, a transfer switch over is required for any home or build up connected to a generator because it prevents two power sources from simultaneously feeding into its lap which can be extremely dangerous .
You can choose from two types of transfer switches :
Manual Transfer Switch
With a manual remove switch, you need to flip a switch in order to transfer the power source from the grid to your portable generator .
Before flipping the switch to move from the main electricity supply to the generator office, constantly follow all instructions provided by the technician after installing a manual transfer switch. There might be several steps required before and after manually transferring electricity sources .
Automatic Transfer Switch
An automatic transfer switch is an excellent option if you need the electricity to stay on when you ’ ra not home. After installing, it mechanically turns on the generator and switches to it during a power outage .
It protects your home from ability disruptions, allowing you a constant generator of electricity. so when you ’ re not at family and the ability goes out, you can be sure your refrigerator keeps running .
You can save fourth dimension and department of energy by pre-installing your electric appliances with an automatic rifle transfer switch, allowing you to power the essential devices first. When using a smaller generator or trying to conserve electricity for longer periods of time, this is specially utilitarian !
A remove switch is an authoritative part of a generator if you plan to use it to baron your home. It should always be installed by a professional to ensure that everything is connected by rights .
An improperly installed transfer switch can cause unintentional back feed or exponent surges which may damage your generator or electric system and campaign accidents .
2. Heavy Duty Extension Cords
To prevent carbon paper monoxide poison, generators must be placed at least 15 feet away from any open windows or doorways, so you ’ re going to need long extension cords to connect by rights to your portable generator .
For safety reasons, we recommend using heavy-duty extension cords that can handle extreme weather conditions. You don ’ t want the connection to fail because of damage extension cords, which could be dangerous on its own excessively .
A generator typically has several unlike outlets, each with a particular amperage. Make sure that the extension cord has two plugs : one for the exit of your generator and another to connect it to a transfer switch .
When choosing an extension cord for your portable generator, things you need to consider are amperage, length, and thickness. Consult a professional if you ’ rhenium not sure which extension cord to buy .
3. Weatherproof Cover
A weatherproof cover is a great manner to protect your portable generator from the elements of nature !
even when you ’ rhenium not using it, a portable generator that remains away should have a weatherproof breed. This protects the generator from getting wet and besides prevents dirt from accumulating on its surface .
Some portable generators can be very large and heavy so it ’ sulfur normally more convenient to keep them in one spot, protected by a weatherproof breed .
When buying a weatherproof cover, make certain it fits comfortably on your generator and is made of weatherproof materials that can protect against debris, crap, rust, and pollen to ensure maximum protection .
4. Silencer and Muffler
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Most portable generators are brassy, particularly the more brawny ones. Some models produce less noise than others but it can however be pretty noisy, specially for your neighbors .
If you ’ re bothered by the randomness of your generator, there are ways to make it quieter. You can purchase a damper or silencer that ’ s made for generators specifically. Another choice is to modify an erstwhile car damper so that it fits on your portable generator rather .
Note: Always hire a professional to modify your car silencer. A generator and a car engine might be similar but they work in different ways. Converting a car silencer to work with a generator involves a fortune of technical details to be executed safely and efficaciously .
In general, there are three types of silencers you can install on your generator : absorbent, reactive, and combination .
- Absorptive silencers are made of sound-absorbing materials, such as fiberglass insulating material, which dampens the generator ’ mho run down noise as it passes through the insulating material. It ’ s most effective in reducing high-frequency make noise .
- Reactive silencers, on the other pass, reduce noise using hardware, by bouncing sound waves between three chambers connected by a pipe. It works good with broken to mid-frequency noises .
- Combination silencers extend the best of both worlds by adding fiberglass insulation inside the three-chamber design, efficaciously reducing the randomness for all frequencies .
It might be a good theme to invest in one of these options if you plan to use your portable generator in public spaces or if your neighbors live conclusion by. There could besides be noise regulations in some areas therefore be certain to check .
5. Remote Wireless Start
More convenient than a pull or push start, a distant wireless start allows you to turn on your portable generator from afar .
A radio distant start is most utilitarian for portable generators that run on work sites or by homeowners who want to start up their generator without going outside .
People with disabilities and aged people can besides benefit from having this accessory .
With it, you can turn on your generator from deoxyadenosine monophosphate far as 80 feet away just by pressing a key on a radio outback ! It can besides come as a remote control connected by a long cable to your generator .
Before buying one though, make sure your portable generator has the specifications required for a distant radio receiver beginning. Consult a technician or check with the generator ’ sulfur manufacturer .
6. Fuel Stabilizer
A fuel stabilizer is a liquid meaning added to gasoline or diesel fuels to prevent it from going badly while it sits in your generator tank. It keeps the fuel from reacting with oxygen and forming harmful gum, which can cause corrosion .
To avoid having to drain your generator tank every time you ’ ra not using it, have a fuel stabilizer in hand. not only will it protect your fuel, but it will besides save you from the harass of draining your tank .
Putting fuel stabilizer in gasoline won ’ t magically make cold accelerator fresh again, thus be sure to add it to fresh fuel the next clock time you refuel your generator. Most brands can preserve fuel for up to a year .
To make sure you don ’ t damage your generator fuel tank when using a stabilizer, constantly read the manufacturer ’ s instructions. Keep in mind that there ’ s no indigence to use a fuel stabilizer with solar-powered generators or generators connected to natural accelerator .
7. Automatic Voltage Regulator
automatic voltage Regulators ( AVRs ) are a must-have feature for portable generators to office medium electronics and home appliances .
These little electronic devices work to maintain the generator ’ second electric potential at a stable level, which prevents damage from fluctuating output levels of the machine. This accessary comes standard on most diesel generators, but you can purchase them for older machines as well .
AVRs monitor the generator ’ randomness world power output and mechanically maintains electrical end product voltage within a manufacturer-set scope. Without one, your generator could cause fluctuations in ability output, which could damage sensitive appliances and equipment .
8. Battery Charger
The best generator battery chargers allow you to cursorily and softly charge your batteries so that it ’ south ready for function when the power goes out .
A generator battery charger is cheap, but many people skip it because they think their generator will never run out of power. however, you ’ ll be left with no backing if that happens !
When deciding on a barrage charger, you ’ ll necessitate to consider its output. This divisor is determined by the size and capacity of your portable generator. It normally comes down to whether you need a 12V or 24V output .
battery chargers that produce more volts will naturally be able to charge up your generator faster, but make sure it comes equipped with a way to lower or disable charging once the generator ’ south battery has reached full charge .
Keeping your battery charger connected during generator start-up can besides cause curtly lap problems. Consider purchasing one with brusque circuit auspices in event you need to charge your generator while it ’ south running .
9. Maintenance Kit
Keeping up with the care of a portable generator will ensure that everything is running smoothly. A thoroughly alimony kit is crucial if you want to keep your generator in good condition .
Make certain your care kit out has these components :
- Generator oil: for regular anoint changes
- Air filters: to replace dirty or clogged up publicize filters
- Oil filters: to replace petroleum filters during oil changes
- Spark plugs: to replace honest-to-god spark plug
- Funnels: for pouring generator oil
Some alimony kits may have extra items such as :
- Chamois cloth: to clean surfaces
- Pre-cleaner: to protect surfaces from dust, crap, and other debris
- Feeler gauge: to check for valve clearance and piston ring gaps
It ’ south crucial to check the exploiter manual to know precisely how to maintain your portable generator by yourself. substantive care activities include :
- Changing the petroleum every 50-60 hours of use
- Changing the anoint filters
- Changing the air filters once or twice a year
- Replacing the spark plug every 100 hours of use
- Checking the battery for damage or corrosion ( for an electric starting signal )
- Checking for vegetable oil leaks and corrosion
- Cleaning the surfaces to prevent rust
10. Wheel Kit
AR-PRO 2-Pack 2.80/2.50-4″ Tire and Wheel Set – with 3/4″ Sintered iron bushings and 3″ Centered Hub
- UNIVERSAL REPLACEMENT 2.80/2.50-4″ TIRE AND WHEEL SET – Fits utility equipment that use tires and inner tubes that have an outer diameter about 8.6 inches and a width of 2.30 inches. For a proper fit, the utility equipment should also be compatible, a 3″ centered hub, and 3/4-inch Sintered iron bushings
tied when portable, generators can be heavy. If you ’ re constantly carrying your generator around, consider purchasing a wheel kit. Installing a bicycle kit out to your portable generator will make it easier to move about !
A dear wheel kit should be able to handle the slant of your portable generator under any weather condition, regardless of the terrain. It should minimize vibration as you move the generator from place to place .
A rack kit is a capital accessory to have if you need to move your generator often. They ’ rhenium whippersnapper and easy to install. They normally come with straps and retractable handles that you can store easily after use .
11. Cold Weather Kit
A cold weather kit out is crucial when using a portable generator in cold climates. This kit out contains items to help protect the car from external elements like snow and ice, vitamin a well as increase its engage efficiency during winter months or highly low temperatures .
The oil and the battery are the two most important components to safeguard in cold weather. When the battery ’ s temperature drops besides low, the vegetable oil might thicken and cause the battery to stop ferment .
When exposed to shallow temperatures, a battery requires a greater current to start correctly. A coldness weather kit includes a barrage fastball that ’ second activated when the temperature drops excessively low .
cold temperatures can besides cause the anoint to thicken, slowing it down and making it more difficult to move around the generator. The kit should besides include an petroleum heater designed to keep the anoint reduce, allowing the generator to work smoothly in low temperatures .
FAQ
What do I need with my generator?
It depends on where and how you ’ re going to use your portable generator. A remove interchange is always required if you want to use your portable generator to office your home .
In general, I highly recommend purchasing a long, heavy-duty extension cord so that you can place your unit at a condom distance. Remember : gas-powered generators must be placed outdoors and aside from any afford windows or entryways to prevent carbon paper monoxide poisoning .
automatic rifle voltage regulators ( AVRs ) can be bought for older generators. They allow the unit to power medium electronics, like phones and laptops. New generators should already come with AVRs in most cases .
If you have a heavy generator that you plan to leave in one place, it might make feel to acquire a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements. And if you plan to use your generator during the cold winter months, consider adding a cold-weather kit out as well .
Some accessories will help keep your generator in good condition, such as the battery charger, fuel stabilizer, and maintenance kit out. You don ’ t have to purchase them if you don ’ thyroxine plan to maintain the generator yourself. If so, be indisputable to ask a technician to inspect and maintain your generator at least once a year .
other optional accessories are besides available for total public toilet. These include a wheel kit for increase mobility, a distant wireless start to turn on your generator from afar, and a silencer or silencer to reduce generator noise !
Do I need a special plug for my generator?
many generators on the market today are equipped with standard three-prong outlets that provide 120/240 volts AC. If that ’ s all you need, then you probably won ’ t need to purchase a special plug or adapter .
portable generators are capable of providing either 12 volts DC, 120 volts AC or 240 volts AC. Some models can provide all three voltages while others only supply the standard electric potential of 120 which is more common for family use .
More knock-down generators besides feature four-prong outlets that can accommodate high-powered equipment. Some folks normally purchase a heavy-duty cord with a four-prong punch to split the might into multiple three-prong outlets. That could be utilitarian if you need more outlets than your generator has .
If you plan to connect your portable generator to a manual of arms or automatic transmit switch for your home ’ second breaker panel, you might need a limited fireplug for that excessively. Be sure to consult a technician before you do. It ’ randomness better to hire a professional to set up your transfer switch .
How do I extend my generator exhaust?
You can find generator exhaust extension kits online, but they might not be available for some portable generators. thankfully, it ’ s possible to extend your generator exhaust on your own .
To start, plainly measure the diameter of your generator consume. Add ¼ inch to the measurement so you can slip on the extension. then, calculate how long you want the run down to be extended. How long do you need for the consume to reach a more ventilate area ?
After you have your measurements, purchase the adjust size clamp and flex tube for your needs. Secure the flex tubing around your exhaust pipe and then tighten it using the clamp. Make certain there are no leaks !
last, just route the tube into a well-ventilated area. When you ’ re ready to move the portable generator, don ’ thyroxine forget to disassemble the extension to prevent any damage .
Wrapping Up
Despite the high price tag on some of these accessories, don ’ t scrimp on timbre when purchasing one for your portable generator. It ’ south better to be safe when dealing with a gas-powered engine. A deformed accessory could spell danger .
For delicate installations or accessories, you ’ ra uncertain of, it ’ sulfur better to consult a technician or hire one to install the accessary for you .
All in all, a portable generator is a capital investment on its own if you want to be prepared for emergencies. But if you want more base hit, increase capabilities, and a better experience with your portable generator, there are many accessories available to make that possible .
Some of these accessories might be required in sealed situations and some are merely decent to have. Hopefully, this article has helped you decide which ones you need !
Scott Krager purchased generatorgrid.com in the summer of 2020 and promptly began to buy every generator under the sun ! He presently has over a twelve generators and the number is growing promptly. He lives in Portland, OR near his family and friends .
last update on 2022-05-11 Affiliate links & images from Amazon Product Advertising API
