3000w Generator Recommendation?

[gnet158]

Hello boys and girls, as the title says I'm looking for a 3000W+ generator for when the lights go out here in earthquake country. I have no idea what to look for so any advice you can give me would be great. I also have a few questions.

 

1. Can a generator be run non stop (with oil changes in between)?

2. I know the Honda's are quite (but expensive), are they alternatives?

3. How do I store a generator?

4. What to look for in a quality generator?

 

Thanks!

[ShimanoFisherman]

I have a 2kw Honda and an 8kw Coleman. The Coleman is a more cheaply made generator but it ran like a champ for eight days straight after Gustav. I changed the oil three times and it drank gas like an out-of-tune 454 but gave me no problems.

 

I had APC uninterruptable power supplies in front of it for my electronics. I don't know that I would trust plugging my AV gear or computers directly into the Coleman.

 

I'm pretty sure the electrical on the Honda is much superior. Though plugging any sensitive electronics directly into a generator can be risky.

 

1. Can a generator be run non stop (with oil changes in between)?

Follow the oil-change interval and you'll be fine. I ran one of mine for eight days non-stop.

 

2. I know the Honda's are quite (but expensive), are they alternatives?

Lots of quality generators out there. Depends on budget requirements.

 

3. How do I store a generator?

Depending on how much gas you have left in it when you're done, I'd let it run completely dry. Then drain the carb just to be sure. If you are gonna leave gas in it, turn off the fuel and run the carb dry and drain. Then put Sta-bil in the gas tank.

 

4. What to look for in a quality generator?

What are you looking to do with the generator? Most generators will run without any problems for a long time if they're maintained well. Higher quality generators will produce cleaner power.

[06yz125]

do you need quiet? ie..an inverter

 

if not..go to lowes and get the 3kw champion.

[cerbomark]

I have a 16K Generac that is ties into my propane line and is connected into my electric box so that when the power goes out, the unit starts up by itself. They can run for days or weeks at a time. Unless your house runs off propane this may not help you. This type will run you you about 5000 dollars but is the ultimate in home generators. If you use gasoline, you always have to have enough fuel handy because when the power goes out you will be unlikely to be able to obtain fuel anywhere.

[gnet158]

Thanks for all the useful information guys!