YOUR GUIDE TO GASOLINE POWERED GENERATOR |
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Gas-fueled portable generators
are generally the least expensive and the most popular among
homeowners. Like all types of residential electrical generators, this
type includes an engine and an electric generator head mounted together
in a single device called a genset.
Statistics shows that most consumers buy light-duty low-cost models.![]() Small models are normally powered by 3600 RPM air-cooled, twin cylinder lawn mower type engines. These engines are internal combustion, spark-ignition engines that burn fuel in an enclosed cylinder. |
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The
engine's power is produced by the expansion of gases formed by the
combustion of a compressed air-fuel mixture. A typical mid-power model
has 4 to 8 gallon fuel tank and can provide 5 to 8 hours run time at
rated load per tankful.![]() GAS GENSET ADVANTAGES:
GAS GENSET DISADVANTAGES:
NOTES ON GASOLINE STORAGEThe fumes are highly flammable: storing a large amount of gas is unsafe. The NFPA 1:Fire Code (Uniform Fire Code ™) limits the amount of such fuel stored in residential building to 25 gallons. Also note that gasoline has components that oxidize and form gum. As it evaporates, this gum tends to form sticky deposits. Daily temperature changes accelerate this process. Although EPA requires all gasolines to contain a deposit-control additive, it has a typical shelf life of about six months. Chevron says their stabilizers make it possible to store Chevron gas for a year if temperature is controlled. Some third-party stabilizers according to their manufacturers' claims let you keep the fuel fresh for up to 2 years. CONCLUSION: A generator that works on gasoline is worth considering if you don't plan to use it frequently, the price is the main object, and you are willing to store a substantial amount of gasoline in case of a wide-spread blackout. Otherwise, you may want to consider more reliable diesel or propane portable models, or a standby genset connected to an external fuel line. For brands' ratings and selection recommendations see Portable Gensets Review. |
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© 2008 Lazar Rozenblat |
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