Portable generators run on different types of fossil fuels: natural gas, propane, diesel or gasoline. The diesel generator is the most fuel-efficient. A gallon of diesel fuel will last two to three times as long as gasoline. Also, gasoline generators have to be cooled down before you can refuel which isn’t the case with diesel. Diesel generators are designed to run continuously for hours. The engines are cooled by water, very durable and more dependable than other kinds of generators and have the longest engine life. They use direct injection and are much less likely to start a fire as they don’t have spark plugs. Diesel is the least flammable of all the fuels making it safer to store. However, diesel generators are noisy, smokey and hard to start in cold weather requiring heaters. Also, diesel fuel is more expensive than gasoline in many places. Diesel generators are usually the most expensive type and normally used for larger, commercial applications.
Gasoline generators are usually the cheapest and gasoline is available almost anywhere. However, they emit harmful carbon monoxide and are noisy. They also require frequent maintenance and the engine wears out faster than diesel, propane or natural gas generators. Gasoline has a short shelf life, gums up, is highly flammable and dangerous to store for long durations. They require frequent maintenance to avoid fuel filter and carburetor problems. However, they are the most affordable and popular choice for a standby home generator.
Propane gas generators are excellent for cold climates because they don’t have trouble starting in cold weather. If you have an existing propane tank for your stove or heater the generator can be hooked right up to that. The biggest disadvantage of propane is it’s a more expensive fuel than gas and produces less energy per unit volume than diesel. Propane has an unlimited shelf life. Propane burns clean and doesn’t gum up. It has the lowest noise level and a longer engine life than gasoline or diesel.
If you live in an area where natural gas is available the advantages and disadvantages of the propane gas generator are about the same. Natural gas is probably the most reliable and dependable fuel on earth. Usually the only time there is a natural gas outage is during a hurricane or earthquake. Of course propane and natural gas generators have a higher installation cost due to plumbing costs and the initial cost is higher than gas generators.
Oil and natural gas companies like, Western Pipeline Corporation, provide a reliable source of supply of all these types of fuel.
Bob Jent is the CEO of Western Pipeline Corp specializes in identifying, acquiring and developing existing, producing reserves on behalf of its individual clients.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Jent
Monday, October 15, 2007
Gas Generators
Generators are used for the generation of electric power. There are basically two types of generators: standby generators and portable generators. Generators ensure that most of the essential appliances can be run whenever there is a power outage. Standby generators provide backup power in homes and offices and are permanently installed outside the house or office building. They are plugged into the electric circuits or home wiring. Standby generators can automatically detect disruption in the usual electric supply and begin supplying power within a few seconds. Portable generators are usually used in places where there is no supply of power or the need for power is less such as on construction sites camps. These generators are sufficient for lighting and to run appliances like televisions, refrigerators, sump pumps and furnaces.
Generators are available in varying size and output power. The choice of buying the right type of generator depends upon a number of factors such as the wattage capacity, voltage ratings, fuel type, fuel efficiency, noise level, portability and price.
Generators for home use most often run on fuels such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas or propane. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline is inexpensive and easily available. Gasoline generators gives the most power per weight unit but require frequent maintenance. It is also noisy, emits harmful carbon monoxide and the engine wears faster than diesel, propane or natural gas generators.
Diesel is easy to acquire but is comparatively more expensive. Diesel generators require less maintenance and are fuel-efficient. Its disadvantage is that it is noisier, emits more smoke and smells, and harder to start in cold weather.
Propane is expensive and is feasible for homeowners who already have a storage tank to store propane. Propane generators require less maintenance, has no condensation and no problem starting up in cold weather like the gasoline generators. However, propane gas or natural gas generators consume more fuel per kilowatt of power produced than diesel generators. Natural gas generators are the most convenient to use as there is continuous supply of fuel. They can be connected to home gas lines.
A generator should always be used according to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Care should be taken to see that the generator is not overloaded. A heavy-duty extension cord must be used to connect appliances to the generator. A qualified electrician must be called in to install a transfer switch to plug the generator to the home wiring system. Refueling the generator when in operation should be avoided. Spilling of fuel on the heated components may cause fire.
Smaller generators can meet most of the basic power needs of a homeowner. Buying a larger generator will consume more fuel to power the same appliances that a smaller generator could. A 5-kilowatt portable generator can power main lights, televisions, sump pumps and refrigerators. Generators of higher wattage capacity are also available according to the needs of the individual house owner. Commercial establishments may need standby generators having an output capacity of more than 200 KW and supplying three-phase power, that is, 120, 240, 480 volts.
It is always wise to invest in good quality generators. All brands and models of generators are listed on the -- a very convenient way to find the best deal.
Generators provides detailed information about generators, diesel generators, electric generators, emergency generators and more. Generators is the sister site of Window Air Conditionar Rentals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
Generators are available in varying size and output power. The choice of buying the right type of generator depends upon a number of factors such as the wattage capacity, voltage ratings, fuel type, fuel efficiency, noise level, portability and price.
Generators for home use most often run on fuels such as gasoline, diesel, natural gas or propane. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline is inexpensive and easily available. Gasoline generators gives the most power per weight unit but require frequent maintenance. It is also noisy, emits harmful carbon monoxide and the engine wears faster than diesel, propane or natural gas generators.
Diesel is easy to acquire but is comparatively more expensive. Diesel generators require less maintenance and are fuel-efficient. Its disadvantage is that it is noisier, emits more smoke and smells, and harder to start in cold weather.
Propane is expensive and is feasible for homeowners who already have a storage tank to store propane. Propane generators require less maintenance, has no condensation and no problem starting up in cold weather like the gasoline generators. However, propane gas or natural gas generators consume more fuel per kilowatt of power produced than diesel generators. Natural gas generators are the most convenient to use as there is continuous supply of fuel. They can be connected to home gas lines.
A generator should always be used according to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Care should be taken to see that the generator is not overloaded. A heavy-duty extension cord must be used to connect appliances to the generator. A qualified electrician must be called in to install a transfer switch to plug the generator to the home wiring system. Refueling the generator when in operation should be avoided. Spilling of fuel on the heated components may cause fire.
Smaller generators can meet most of the basic power needs of a homeowner. Buying a larger generator will consume more fuel to power the same appliances that a smaller generator could. A 5-kilowatt portable generator can power main lights, televisions, sump pumps and refrigerators. Generators of higher wattage capacity are also available according to the needs of the individual house owner. Commercial establishments may need standby generators having an output capacity of more than 200 KW and supplying three-phase power, that is, 120, 240, 480 volts.
It is always wise to invest in good quality generators. All brands and models of generators are listed on the -- a very convenient way to find the best deal.
Generators provides detailed information about generators, diesel generators, electric generators, emergency generators and more. Generators is the sister site of Window Air Conditionar Rentals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eddie_Tobey
Top 3 Solar Portable Electricity Generators
One portable solar electricity generator we looked at comes in three different models. The first version is 12 amp AC with an inverter of 150 watts. The other two versions, both DC are either 12 or 30 amps. All these portable solar electricity power generators come with 20-foot long 12/2 cable and DC plugs for input. What are not included are batteries or modules.
These portable solar generators come factory tested and fully assembled. They are easy to use plug and go systems. The AC model has an inverter switch on the outside; they all come with PV module type accessories for mounting. Other features of these solar generators are 120 VAC sockets equipped with outdoor covers for the AC models. These same models also have 150-watt internal inverters.
You'll always know the condition of your charge with these portable solar generators, thanks to their battery meters. Protective safety and durability features include separate fusion of all sockets, enclosures that are nonbreakable, rugged and resistant to weather and corrosion. The solar panels of these portable generators make them DC chargeable as well as friendly to the environment. Each of these made for your home power generators come with 2 DC sockets that can accommodate loads as high as 90 watts each.
This made for home portable power generator can be recharged from a solar module or an AC battery charger, an optional accessory. The unit is fully integrated and generators AC or DC electricity quietly. It is ideal for running lights, fans, laptops, and small televisions or power tools.
George Thomas makes it quick and easy to find the top portable generator Read expert information here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Thomas
These portable solar generators come factory tested and fully assembled. They are easy to use plug and go systems. The AC model has an inverter switch on the outside; they all come with PV module type accessories for mounting. Other features of these solar generators are 120 VAC sockets equipped with outdoor covers for the AC models. These same models also have 150-watt internal inverters.
You'll always know the condition of your charge with these portable solar generators, thanks to their battery meters. Protective safety and durability features include separate fusion of all sockets, enclosures that are nonbreakable, rugged and resistant to weather and corrosion. The solar panels of these portable generators make them DC chargeable as well as friendly to the environment. Each of these made for your home power generators come with 2 DC sockets that can accommodate loads as high as 90 watts each.
This made for home portable power generator can be recharged from a solar module or an AC battery charger, an optional accessory. The unit is fully integrated and generators AC or DC electricity quietly. It is ideal for running lights, fans, laptops, and small televisions or power tools.
George Thomas makes it quick and easy to find the top portable generator Read expert information here.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Thomas
Quiet Honda Generators
Honda generators really are quiet. So quiet in fact, that many State Parks will only allow campers to use Honda brand generators within their campgrounds. Honda generators are really quiet and do not disturb other campers. Honda generators have set the standard for portable generator technology for over 35 years.
Honda generators are compact, fuel-efficient and provide smooth clean power. They are used for recreation, work and in emergencies. Honda generators meet or exceed all EPA (environmental Protection Agency Standards). Added with the fact that Honda generators really are quiet, this makes them the most popular brand on the market today.
The popularity of Honda generators guarantees that there is a significant market for Honda generator parts. Most authorized dealers carry large inventories of Honda generator part, so on the rare occasion that they need repair; there is not a long wait for an order.
The reason that Honda generators really are quiet .is because of Honda’s advanced inverter technology. This specially developed technology helps Honda produces generators that are lightweight and fuel efficient, and that are ideally suited for use with sensitive electronics like computers and printers.
Honda generators are really easy to operate but remember that proper ventilation is important, not only for best use, but your safety as well. Honda generators are really quiet, but they are still hazardous if used improperly. Place your generator on a flat surface that is firm and level, and keep it dry.
To keep your generator running at peak performance, remember to run it once a month when it is not in use. This helps to lubricate the engine and runs fresh gas through the carburetor. This also helps keep the battery charged.
Good performance is another reason Honda generators are really quiet. To ensure good performance here are some basic steps to take. First, check the fuel level before starting the generator. Honda generators run on unleaded gas. Never use stale or contaminated gas. Also, avoid getting water or dirt in the tank. The fuel tank cover vents the tank. Proper storage is crucial to prevent accumulation of gas fumes.
For safety, make sure the Honda generator is properly grounded according to local regulations. Connect the power cord to the generator and turnoff the circuit breaker to allow the generator to warm up. Once you start it Honda generators really are quiet, you may wonder if it’s on!
More on Honda Generators and other portable generators.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Coyle
Honda generators are compact, fuel-efficient and provide smooth clean power. They are used for recreation, work and in emergencies. Honda generators meet or exceed all EPA (environmental Protection Agency Standards). Added with the fact that Honda generators really are quiet, this makes them the most popular brand on the market today.
The popularity of Honda generators guarantees that there is a significant market for Honda generator parts. Most authorized dealers carry large inventories of Honda generator part, so on the rare occasion that they need repair; there is not a long wait for an order.
The reason that Honda generators really are quiet .is because of Honda’s advanced inverter technology. This specially developed technology helps Honda produces generators that are lightweight and fuel efficient, and that are ideally suited for use with sensitive electronics like computers and printers.
Honda generators are really easy to operate but remember that proper ventilation is important, not only for best use, but your safety as well. Honda generators are really quiet, but they are still hazardous if used improperly. Place your generator on a flat surface that is firm and level, and keep it dry.
To keep your generator running at peak performance, remember to run it once a month when it is not in use. This helps to lubricate the engine and runs fresh gas through the carburetor. This also helps keep the battery charged.
Good performance is another reason Honda generators are really quiet. To ensure good performance here are some basic steps to take. First, check the fuel level before starting the generator. Honda generators run on unleaded gas. Never use stale or contaminated gas. Also, avoid getting water or dirt in the tank. The fuel tank cover vents the tank. Proper storage is crucial to prevent accumulation of gas fumes.
For safety, make sure the Honda generator is properly grounded according to local regulations. Connect the power cord to the generator and turnoff the circuit breaker to allow the generator to warm up. Once you start it Honda generators really are quiet, you may wonder if it’s on!
More on Honda Generators and other portable generators.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Coyle
Sunday, October 14, 2007
When Will I Ever Use An Electric Generator?
First let’s define an electric generator. In simple and obvious terms it is something that generates electricity. In effect it is its own power plant. Most often it is run by a gasoline engine but it only requires power to spin a magnet inside a coil of wire. So you could harness the power of the wind with a turbine or use the hydroelectric power of moving water.
So basically you need an electric generator to produce electricity apart from what your local power plant is producing (by the way they are just super sized electric generator(s)). What kinds of times would these be? Well say that you don’t have access to the local supply. You are either too far away from a power company and their wires or you are on land that has not been accessed by power from the power plant that is nearby. Lots of times carpenters and other tradesmen in the house building industry will have generators on hand incase the power has not been turned on yet. Other times it is hunters or other outdoor sports enthusiasts that have equipment that can be run with electricity including lights, coffee makers, griddles, TVs, etc.
The last situation that came to mind is when you both have a power company near by and your property is accessed by power lines already. The problem is that the power plant is no longer able to produce power or get power to you for one of several reasons. Often it is weather that has damaged the power lines that supply your zone with power. It could be high winds, ice storms, and other situations that knock down the lines. The plant also may not be able to produce any electricity or enough to supply your needs. This happened just a few years ago in the Midwest when a power company in Canada failed. The caused a cascade of “failures” in which the power companies down the line in the grid could not produce enough to completely back up the original failed plant and people went without power because of it.
So when should you have an electric generator? Well it all depends on how you want to survive when power goes out and how much you would lose by not being able to operate. Hospitals for instance must have generators in order to provide continuous life saving support. Contractors as mentioned before typically have to have generators just to work at certain jobs. If you live further away you would more likely be benefited. If you are just the type that loves to be prepared for anything than you would be happy to fire up the generator when the power went down.
So basically you need an electric generator to produce electricity apart from what your local power plant is producing (by the way they are just super sized electric generator(s)). What kinds of times would these be? Well say that you don’t have access to the local supply. You are either too far away from a power company and their wires or you are on land that has not been accessed by power from the power plant that is nearby. Lots of times carpenters and other tradesmen in the house building industry will have generators on hand incase the power has not been turned on yet. Other times it is hunters or other outdoor sports enthusiasts that have equipment that can be run with electricity including lights, coffee makers, griddles, TVs, etc.
The last situation that came to mind is when you both have a power company near by and your property is accessed by power lines already. The problem is that the power plant is no longer able to produce power or get power to you for one of several reasons. Often it is weather that has damaged the power lines that supply your zone with power. It could be high winds, ice storms, and other situations that knock down the lines. The plant also may not be able to produce any electricity or enough to supply your needs. This happened just a few years ago in the Midwest when a power company in Canada failed. The caused a cascade of “failures” in which the power companies down the line in the grid could not produce enough to completely back up the original failed plant and people went without power because of it.
So when should you have an electric generator? Well it all depends on how you want to survive when power goes out and how much you would lose by not being able to operate. Hospitals for instance must have generators in order to provide continuous life saving support. Contractors as mentioned before typically have to have generators just to work at certain jobs. If you live further away you would more likely be benefited. If you are just the type that loves to be prepared for anything than you would be happy to fire up the generator when the power went down.
Why You Should Have A Portable Generator For Hurricanes
Portable generators are not the most inexpensive item to get in preparation for a hurricane, but it could be the best one. Every year there has been an increase in the amount of hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean. This has led to more people suffering from the destruction that the hurricanes leave in their path. Many people completely lose their homes, and many others are with out power for months at a time. There is no way to know it you will ever use a power generator. However, with the increasing chance that you may need one, it makes a generator seem like a better option each year.
As storms affect more people each year, there are very many options to suit any need. A small generator will run you about $400 to start. The key thing to keep in mind is to treat a hurricane aftermath much like you will be camping. Maybe you can run the refrigerator and a couple small appliances, but it will not be as good as city power. A generator that will completely run a house starts at around $4,000 before installation. If you would like to have your house functional, it is a great option. Hurricane season is during the summer and fall seasons and mainly affects the South Eastern United States. That means affected areas are very hot and no power results in a sticky situation. The larger generators also have diesel engines that do not need to stay dry like a regular gas engine. This ensures that you won't have any complications with flooding or rain keeping them from running.
When you decide what your power needs are, it is important to get a generator ahead of time because they sell out quick when a storm is coming. There are also people who will buy up the stock of them in a store and charge double because they know some people will pay it.
As storms affect more people each year, there are very many options to suit any need. A small generator will run you about $400 to start. The key thing to keep in mind is to treat a hurricane aftermath much like you will be camping. Maybe you can run the refrigerator and a couple small appliances, but it will not be as good as city power. A generator that will completely run a house starts at around $4,000 before installation. If you would like to have your house functional, it is a great option. Hurricane season is during the summer and fall seasons and mainly affects the South Eastern United States. That means affected areas are very hot and no power results in a sticky situation. The larger generators also have diesel engines that do not need to stay dry like a regular gas engine. This ensures that you won't have any complications with flooding or rain keeping them from running.
When you decide what your power needs are, it is important to get a generator ahead of time because they sell out quick when a storm is coming. There are also people who will buy up the stock of them in a store and charge double because they know some people will pay it.
Portable Generator Fuel Choices by Bob Jent
Portable generators run on different types of fossil fuels: natural gas, propane, diesel or gasoline. The diesel generator is the most fuel-efficient. A gallon of diesel fuel will last two to three times as long as gasoline. Also, gasoline generators have to be cooled down before you can refuel which isn't the case with diesel. Diesel generators are designed to run continuously for hours. The engines are cooled by water, very durable and more dependable than other kinds of generators and have the longest engine life. They use direct injection and are much less likely to start a fire as they don't have spark plugs. Diesel is the least flammable of all the fuels making it safer to store. However, diesel generators are noisy, smokey and hard to start in cold weather requiring heaters. Also, diesel fuel is more expensive than gasoline in many places. Diesel generators are usually the most expensive type and normally used for larger, commercial applications.
Gasoline generators are usually the cheapest and gasoline is available almost anywhere. However, they emit harmful carbon monoxide and are noisy. They also require frequent maintenance and the engine wears out faster than diesel, propane or natural gas generators. Gasoline has a short shelf life, gums up, is highly flammable and dangerous to store for long durations. They require frequent maintenance to avoid fuel filter and carburetor problems. However, they are the most affordable and popular choice for a standby home generator.
Propane gas generators are excellent for cold climates because they don't have trouble starting in cold weather. If you have an existing propane tank for your stove or heater the generator can be hooked right up to that. The biggest disadvantage of propane is it's a more expensive fuel than gas and produces less energy per unit volume than diesel. Propane has an unlimited shelf life. Propane burns clean and doesn't gum up. It has the lowest noise level and a longer engine life than gasoline or diesel.
If you live in an area where natural gas is available the advantages and disadvantages of the propane gas generator are about the same. Natural gas is probably the most reliable and dependable fuel on earth. Usually the only time there is a natural gas outage is during a hurricane or earthquake. Of course propane and natural gas generators have a higher installation cost due to plumbing costs and the initial cost is higher than gas generators.
Oil and natural gas companies like, Western Pipeline Corporation, provide a reliable source of supply of all these types of fuel.
Gasoline generators are usually the cheapest and gasoline is available almost anywhere. However, they emit harmful carbon monoxide and are noisy. They also require frequent maintenance and the engine wears out faster than diesel, propane or natural gas generators. Gasoline has a short shelf life, gums up, is highly flammable and dangerous to store for long durations. They require frequent maintenance to avoid fuel filter and carburetor problems. However, they are the most affordable and popular choice for a standby home generator.
Propane gas generators are excellent for cold climates because they don't have trouble starting in cold weather. If you have an existing propane tank for your stove or heater the generator can be hooked right up to that. The biggest disadvantage of propane is it's a more expensive fuel than gas and produces less energy per unit volume than diesel. Propane has an unlimited shelf life. Propane burns clean and doesn't gum up. It has the lowest noise level and a longer engine life than gasoline or diesel.
If you live in an area where natural gas is available the advantages and disadvantages of the propane gas generator are about the same. Natural gas is probably the most reliable and dependable fuel on earth. Usually the only time there is a natural gas outage is during a hurricane or earthquake. Of course propane and natural gas generators have a higher installation cost due to plumbing costs and the initial cost is higher than gas generators.
Oil and natural gas companies like, Western Pipeline Corporation, provide a reliable source of supply of all these types of fuel.
Build A Wind Generator
When our family decided that our small solar panel array just wasn't big enough to power our off grid home we had to make some choices on what to do. Learning how to build a wind generator was not at the top of the list at first, but it soon developed into the best option.
We could either diversify our Renewable Energy System, a choice between hydro power from our small stream or put up a wind generator. We also had the option to just buy more solar panels. We decided to learn how to build a wind generator and here is why - You may want to build your own wind generator too.
There are times of the year when even a hundred solar panels and 10 times our present battery storage would not run our home. In the fall and winter the sun may not shine for weeks at a time. Thus, no power is produced from the solar panels, no matter how many we would have. We really wanted to smooth out the wrinkles in our charging cycle as well as produce more power for our home, that meant adding more solar panels just wouldn’t work for us.
Hydro power is probably the most cost effective option if you have enough running water with an adequate drop to produce power. Water power will produce 24/7 , but we had a problem with this option. From November until April our stream freezes solid and in order to produce power we need running water. Unless we could figure out a way to run ice through the hydro turbine that is.
That left us with the wind generator option. A quick assessment of our site told us we had wind energy potential. Open space and a site that was free of obstructions for over 300 yards. We would only need a 40 foot tower to get up to the good wind.
So, we started shopping for a wind generator. The wind definitely went out of our sales, so to speak, when we started looking at the price of new and used wind generators.
During our search for a wind generator a friend of ours suggested why not build a wind generator. He had done just that recently with some plans he had downloaded from a website called Off Grid Living. We took a look at the nice job he had done on his wind generator and decided to download our own plans.
They cost us $19.95 , but compared to the price in the thousands for a new or used wind generator to meet our needs it was a real bargain. The plans were simple and easy to follow and provided sources for all of the material we would need.
Once we knew where to look, the DC motor used for a generator was quickly located, as well as the free PVC pipe we used for the blades. Our family is quite happy learning how to build a wind generator. It produces about 600 watts of power at 24 volts.
Our family has been living off the grid since last year, and loving every minute of it. You can find some really helpful information at the Off Grid Living website that we found, you could even learn to build your own wind generator - Here is a link to the article on how to http://www.off-grid-living.com/node/80
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Temple
We could either diversify our Renewable Energy System, a choice between hydro power from our small stream or put up a wind generator. We also had the option to just buy more solar panels. We decided to learn how to build a wind generator and here is why - You may want to build your own wind generator too.
There are times of the year when even a hundred solar panels and 10 times our present battery storage would not run our home. In the fall and winter the sun may not shine for weeks at a time. Thus, no power is produced from the solar panels, no matter how many we would have. We really wanted to smooth out the wrinkles in our charging cycle as well as produce more power for our home, that meant adding more solar panels just wouldn’t work for us.
Hydro power is probably the most cost effective option if you have enough running water with an adequate drop to produce power. Water power will produce 24/7 , but we had a problem with this option. From November until April our stream freezes solid and in order to produce power we need running water. Unless we could figure out a way to run ice through the hydro turbine that is.
That left us with the wind generator option. A quick assessment of our site told us we had wind energy potential. Open space and a site that was free of obstructions for over 300 yards. We would only need a 40 foot tower to get up to the good wind.
So, we started shopping for a wind generator. The wind definitely went out of our sales, so to speak, when we started looking at the price of new and used wind generators.
During our search for a wind generator a friend of ours suggested why not build a wind generator. He had done just that recently with some plans he had downloaded from a website called Off Grid Living. We took a look at the nice job he had done on his wind generator and decided to download our own plans.
They cost us $19.95 , but compared to the price in the thousands for a new or used wind generator to meet our needs it was a real bargain. The plans were simple and easy to follow and provided sources for all of the material we would need.
Once we knew where to look, the DC motor used for a generator was quickly located, as well as the free PVC pipe we used for the blades. Our family is quite happy learning how to build a wind generator. It produces about 600 watts of power at 24 volts.
Our family has been living off the grid since last year, and loving every minute of it. You can find some really helpful information at the Off Grid Living website that we found, you could even learn to build your own wind generator - Here is a link to the article on how to http://www.off-grid-living.com/node/80
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bill_Temple
RV Generator Maintenance Quick Tip
For a gasoline generator you should start and run the generator with at least a half rated load for a minimum of two hours every month. It is extremely important that you run it with this minimum rated load. Generators are designed to run with a load placed on them. Our motor home has a 4,000 watt generator so I can either turn the roof air conditioner on in the summer time, which is about 2,000 watts or I can use a couple of small portable electric heaters if it's cold out. It's always better to let your generator run for longer periods than it is for short periods. Check your generator owner's manual for load ratings specific to your unit.
Other maintenance intervals for generators are based on usage. Your generator set will have an hour meter so you can monitor the usage. Consult your owner's manual for maintenance intervals.
Changing the oil and filters on a regular scheduled basis and for seasonal changes is just as important for your generator as it is for your automobile. For extended storage requirements consult your generator owner's manual.
NOTE*- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and your generator: The onboard generator makes your RV fully self-contained. It allows you access to 120- volts when there is no shore power available, but keep in mind that carbon monoxide is deadly! Test the carbon monoxide detector every time you use the RV. Know what the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:
1) Dizziness
2) Vomiting
3) Nausea
4) Muscular twitching
5) Intense headache
6) Throbbing in the temples
7) Weakness and sleepiness
8) Inability to think coherently
If you or anyone else experiences any of these symptoms get to fresh air immediately. If the symptoms persist seek medical attention. Shut the generator down and do not operate it until it has been inspected and repaired by a professional.
Happy and Safe Camping,
Mark
Copyright 2006 by Mark J. Polk owner of RV Education 101
RV Expert Mark Polk, seen on TV, is the producer & host of America's most highly regarded series of DVD's, videos, books, and e-books. http://www.rveducation101.com/
Sign up for your free "RV Education 101" Newsletter http://rveducation101.com/email/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Polk
Other maintenance intervals for generators are based on usage. Your generator set will have an hour meter so you can monitor the usage. Consult your owner's manual for maintenance intervals.
Changing the oil and filters on a regular scheduled basis and for seasonal changes is just as important for your generator as it is for your automobile. For extended storage requirements consult your generator owner's manual.
NOTE*- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and your generator: The onboard generator makes your RV fully self-contained. It allows you access to 120- volts when there is no shore power available, but keep in mind that carbon monoxide is deadly! Test the carbon monoxide detector every time you use the RV. Know what the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:
1) Dizziness
2) Vomiting
3) Nausea
4) Muscular twitching
5) Intense headache
6) Throbbing in the temples
7) Weakness and sleepiness
8) Inability to think coherently
If you or anyone else experiences any of these symptoms get to fresh air immediately. If the symptoms persist seek medical attention. Shut the generator down and do not operate it until it has been inspected and repaired by a professional.
Happy and Safe Camping,
Mark
Copyright 2006 by Mark J. Polk owner of RV Education 101
RV Expert Mark Polk, seen on TV, is the producer & host of America's most highly regarded series of DVD's, videos, books, and e-books. http://www.rveducation101.com/
Sign up for your free "RV Education 101" Newsletter http://rveducation101.com/email/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mark_Polk
Home Built Wind Generators
In this day and age, we should all be looking for ways to go green and preserve what is left of our precious earth. In an attempt to make a better life for ourselves or our loved ones many are looking at the benefits of a wind generator. More to the point many would like to know how to build one. That is what we are going to discuss, home built wind generators.
There are a few items that you will need in order to build your own wind generator. A shop with basic power and hand tools and dedication are the three basic components that you are going to need to under take this project. You need to know what size of a wind generator you are thinking of making. Anything 2000 Watts and above require strong construction while the smaller ones around 1000 Watts and 8 to 11 feet tall can be constructed of car parts and be completed within a week. Baby steps are the recommendation here; build a smaller one and then move on to a larger one.
You will need to be able to weld steel and have access to a metal lathe. If you do not have these two abilities you can hire a machine shop. The size of your wind generator also depends on the wind. Unfortunately most residential spaces do not lend themselves enough wind to make a wind generator practical.
Trees and buildings break wind force and create gusts that can actually be very destructive to what it is you are trying to accomplish. If you are able to set up in an open space, hilltops are ideal, but not all of us live on a hill, then setting up with a tall tower can help make the wind generator more practical. Be mindful of what a wind generator does to your neighbors.
Wind generators work with thin air, so this means that the generator needs to be large in comparison to the power you want it to produce. If you live in a prime spot as far as setting up the wind generator, a modern home requires blades that are 5 meters from tip to tip. If you are very energy conserving conscience then you may be able to build a smaller generator. A comparison to consider is that wind generators with blades that are 2 meters will most likely produce 500kWh of electricity each year and an average house consumes about 4500 kWh per year.
With that being said, you need to figure out the direction of wind that prevails in your area. You can figure this out by looking at the trees, if they lean and have branches mostly on one side will let you know which direction the wind comes from. The height of the wind generator is also important. It needs to be 30 feet above any obstruction that is within 400 feet. Be ware of the turbulence if this is not possible. Distance is another factor to consider. The farther away your wind generator the more power you loose. Use a 24v or 48v battery bank to save you money and increase your power.
You will need an anemometer to measure real wind speed, a generator, rotor, furling and shut down system, regulation system, slip rings and do your homework. Make sure you read all that you can on home built wind generators and building wind generators.
For more up to date information on home built wind generators please visit: http://www.windgeneratorstoday.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Munyaradzi_Chinongoza
There are a few items that you will need in order to build your own wind generator. A shop with basic power and hand tools and dedication are the three basic components that you are going to need to under take this project. You need to know what size of a wind generator you are thinking of making. Anything 2000 Watts and above require strong construction while the smaller ones around 1000 Watts and 8 to 11 feet tall can be constructed of car parts and be completed within a week. Baby steps are the recommendation here; build a smaller one and then move on to a larger one.
You will need to be able to weld steel and have access to a metal lathe. If you do not have these two abilities you can hire a machine shop. The size of your wind generator also depends on the wind. Unfortunately most residential spaces do not lend themselves enough wind to make a wind generator practical.
Trees and buildings break wind force and create gusts that can actually be very destructive to what it is you are trying to accomplish. If you are able to set up in an open space, hilltops are ideal, but not all of us live on a hill, then setting up with a tall tower can help make the wind generator more practical. Be mindful of what a wind generator does to your neighbors.
Wind generators work with thin air, so this means that the generator needs to be large in comparison to the power you want it to produce. If you live in a prime spot as far as setting up the wind generator, a modern home requires blades that are 5 meters from tip to tip. If you are very energy conserving conscience then you may be able to build a smaller generator. A comparison to consider is that wind generators with blades that are 2 meters will most likely produce 500kWh of electricity each year and an average house consumes about 4500 kWh per year.
With that being said, you need to figure out the direction of wind that prevails in your area. You can figure this out by looking at the trees, if they lean and have branches mostly on one side will let you know which direction the wind comes from. The height of the wind generator is also important. It needs to be 30 feet above any obstruction that is within 400 feet. Be ware of the turbulence if this is not possible. Distance is another factor to consider. The farther away your wind generator the more power you loose. Use a 24v or 48v battery bank to save you money and increase your power.
You will need an anemometer to measure real wind speed, a generator, rotor, furling and shut down system, regulation system, slip rings and do your homework. Make sure you read all that you can on home built wind generators and building wind generators.
For more up to date information on home built wind generators please visit: http://www.windgeneratorstoday.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Munyaradzi_Chinongoza
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)