El generators for the home. A gasoline electric generator is the best choice for a private house. Useful in our store

In order for the house to be a real fortress, all possible complications must be foreseen and in no case should they be allowed. One of the most common and annoying problems in living in a private home can be a power outage. However, it is easy to beware of this if you purchase a gasoline electric current generator for a private house or a similar device.

However, first you should figure out how much power a power supply system is needed for a private house, as well as which one is more suitable: a diesel or gasoline generator for a private house. Today on the market there are many different models in terms of characteristics and properties, differing both in power and in the principle of operation.

Petrol

An autonomous gasoline current generator for a private house is the best option for ensuring uninterrupted power supply during periods of shutdown. The principle of operation is based on the combustion of fuel undergoing a purification procedure from mechanical impurities, with the participation of oxygen supplied by drawing into special filters. The combustion mixture forms a gas that drives the piston system. The rotational moment activates the rotor, which converts it into electrical energy.

The generation capacity of gasoline devices used to provide electricity to a standard single-family country house is mostly limited. 12 kW, which is quite enough to provide voltage in 220 and 330 V. To supply energy to large retail and office premises, devices with a power of up to 30 kW. Hourly fuel consumption varies from 0.3 to 4 liters depending on the output voltage.

When purchasing, you must carefully read the instructions, in particular regarding the recommended uptime. On average, this time is from 10 to 12 hours, after which the cooling of the system is required. At the same time, a good gasoline generator is able to work longer, but its use around the clock is still not recommended. By type, a gasoline generator for a private house is distinguished, the price of which is lower - two-stroke and more expensive, capable of generating more power - four-stroke.

Diesel

Diesel vehicles are also used as an emergency source of power supply, as well as an additional source of power in cases where the provided electrical power is not enough to meet all the needs for it. Diesel devices are very widely represented, many of them are capable of generating a significant amount of electricity, and therefore are more often used for the needs of several houses. The principle of their operation is similar to gasoline, however, as the name implies, they work on a different type of fuel. There is also a model for meeting the needs of one household. The power of three-phase diesel devices on the market is from 8 to 30 kVA.

Gas

There are also devices whose operating principle is based on natural gas, due to the combustion energy of which turbine blades are set in motion. The compressor rotates due to half of the generated energy, the other feeds the generator itself. This is its advantage, it is completely autonomous, while environmentally friendly.

The danger of gas generators is associated with a possible leakage and, as a result, an explosion if the system is damaged.

However, it is necessary to note the danger with which the operation of the device is associated. Even more dangerous is a device whose principle of operation is based on liquefied gas. The danger is associated with problems characteristic of gas devices, which imply leakage and, as a result, the possibility of an explosion if the system is damaged.

Types of current sources

Synchronous

The synchronous principle of operation of the system lies in the fact that the working mechanisms of the device, namely: the operation of the rotor and the rotation of the magnetic fields of the stator, occurs in an orderly, interconnected and synchronous mode. The main advantage of this principle lies in the stability and constancy of the resulting voltage at the output.

The main disadvantage is connected, first of all, with overloads that occur as a result of this interdependence and an increase in the current strength in the rotor by the regulator. Obsolete models also contain the disadvantage of having a brush device that required periodic maintenance and replacement. Synchronous installations, for the most part, have found their application in supplying current to industrial enterprises and ships.

Asynchronous

Asynchronous generators are not adapted to the starting current, however, they are resistant to short circuit and overload. Also, this type of device generates a voltage that is weakly subject to non-linear distortion, due to which the device is adapted to power household electrical appliances.

The benefits also include:

1. production of useful energy due to low clear factor,
2. the absence of “sensitive” components requiring replacement and repair,
3. long period of operation.

Asynchronous models are represented by:

1. in the form of collector electric motors
2. in the form of stepper motors with a low rotational speed.

inverter

The principle of operation of these devices, as the name implies, is based on the use of an inverter system. By adjusting the output voltage, which has a frequency stability indicator, the control of the pulse-width modulation, which produces high-quality electrical energy, is carried out.

The first stage of operation of the device is the operation of a rectifier that converts alternating current to direct current. After that, with the help of stabilization through the operation of special filters, the pulsation is cleaned. This allows AC to be generated using transistors or thyristors in a bridge circuit. The control of the parameters of the feedback circuits is carried out using the system of the inverter device. Thus, the output current is controlled in its parameters in each section, due to which its frequency is stabilized.

The operation of the device is based on the action of the rotor, supplemented by the stator, and the inverter unit, consisting of the above components:

1. rectifier,
2. filter,
3. conversion circuit.

The system is controlled by a microcomputer. The rotor, due to rotation, generates an alternating current (three-phase), directed to the inverter, and then to the rectification circuit, where the voltage is equalized and the output indicators are stabilized.

Benefits include:

1. energy savings resulting from an intelligent distribution system,
2. compactness, lightness and ease of installation,
3. engine air cooling system that protects against overloads and overheating.

Control system

The control systems are different depending on the specific types of generators. In general, they should be divided into manual and automatic. Most often, more expensive devices require the presence of additional equipment that, in accordance with the specified parameters, starts, controls and monitors the operation of the power supply system. For devices of a certain type, it necessarily implies the presence of a microcomputer that performs these functions.

The main advantages of inverter generators are energy savings, compactness and ease of installation.

In particular, this applies to inverter-type devices, the quality of which depends on the life support of serious large systems, the failure of which can lead to very serious consequences. Compact, designed to power a private house, they are usually controlled manually, but in accordance with the installation of additional options, they can be equipped with an automatic control and monitoring system.

Cooling methods

The operation of the device is invariably associated with heating of the power supply system. The upper allowable limits for the heating of components are determined by the insulation materials used, as well as by the outside air temperature. The upper allowed heating temperature is also classified according to the class assigned to the device.

The overheating insulation system is also subject to wear and tear due to pollution, high moisture content, oxidation, electric field exposure and increased loads. The maximum allowable operating time of the insulation system depends on the maximum allowable heat level. For example, if the temperature is constantly reached within 120 degrees service life - 15 years, and for this value at 140 degrees - only 2 years.

Protect the system from overheating by using artificial cooling:

1. indirect,
2. direct

Indirect cooling involves cooling with fans located at the ends of the rotor. The coolant enters the generator and passes through the gaps and special channels. Direct cooling is distinguished by the contact of the coolant with the winding of the device.

Generators typically operate with the following types of cooling:

1. air,
2. hydrogen,
3. liquid.

Air cooling occurs either in flow or in closed mode. Flow means a single passage of cooling air through the system, closed - its circulation.

Asynchronous generators are resistant to short circuit and overload.

With a hydrogen cooling system, the cooling device is always built directly into the movement case, and does not act from the outside, like an air one.

Liquid cooling occurs due to the action of distilled water, which has an increased efficiency compared to hydrogen, due to which a higher degree of cooling occurs without increasing the size of the cooling elements.

What power to choose

How much power do you need a generator for a private house? The required generator power for a private house directly depends on the needs of a private house and the amount of electrical equipment used in the household. Generator 220V, running on gasoline, suitable for the needs of a private house, in most of the presented models it generates power from 3 to 8 kW. From this range, you should choose the appropriate one, taking into account private needs. Apparatus that produces approx. 3 kW suitable if you need to ensure the operation of a minimum set of household devices:

1. incandescent lamps,
2. fridge,
3. kettle,
4. heater.

If you need to ensure the operation of a TV, a computer, charging a mobile phone, a microwave oven, a toaster - in a word, everything for a comfortable life, then you need an apparatus that generates 8 or even 12 kW.

Additional options to look out for

For convenience, you should choose a generator for a private house with auto start. After choosing the power and type, you should understand all the models presented that are suitable for the given parameters, and also pay attention to the opinions of consumers.

Although all manufacturers are not inclined to tell customers about the significant shortcomings of their products, there is often a generator for a private house, reviews of which can explicitly demonstrate its obvious shortcomings and weaknesses. This is also worth paying attention to, since no one wants to repeat other people's mistakes, especially since in the age of information technology there is an opportunity to protect themselves from them.

Connecting a generator in a private home also requires basic skills or the help of professionals. Distributors that implement uninterruptible power systems most often have a staff of experts in this field who can (usually for a fee) help with the connection.

In general, the scheme for connecting a generator in a private house depends on the type of device designed for autonomous operation or not, supplemented by an introductory machine or without it. All connection features should be consulted in accordance with the instructions or consulted with specialists.

It is not worth neglecting all the significant details, since an incorrect connection carries a whole group of risks, different in their consequences, among which are (only a part of the possible):

1. the device will fail and require service,
2. there will be problems with the entire power grid,
3. The generated electricity will not go to the house, but will spread to all connected network users.

Popular models of gasoline generators and prices

Manufacturers of popular and relevant gasoline generators on the market today include:

1. honda,
2. Briggs&Stratton,
3. Mitsui power,
4. mirkonenergy,
5. SDMO,
6. Zenith.

Below is a comparison table: the minimum suitable (about 2-3 kW) and powerful (10-11 kW) in the line of the named manufacturer of the energy supply system for a private house, the price is based on the screen from the distributor's website.

Manufacturer	Low power model / price	Powerful model / price
Briggs & Stratton	Sprint 3200 A (3.1 kW)	Sprint 3200 A (3.1 kW)
Mitsui power	ECO ZM 3500 (2.8 kW)	ECO ZM 10000-E (10 kW)
Mirkon Energy	No	MKG10MP
REG	GG3300-X (3 kW)	SG10-230 (11 kW)
SDMO	PERFORM 3000 (3 kW)	TECHNIC 15000 TE (11.5 kW)
Zenith	ZH4000S (3.3 kW)	ZH12000DXE (11 kW)

It should be noted that the presented comparative analysis of prices is for informational purposes only and for an informed purchase decision it should be supplemented by a more detailed acquaintance of the buyer with the models of various manufacturers, since, firstly, only one commercial offer for different models is presented, and secondly , the selection criterion is power without taking into account the type of device, which also has a significant impact on the final price of an automatic gasoline generator.

Despite this, after reading this table, the user can form an initial opinion about the manufacturers on the market and the pricing policy of each, as a result of which narrow the range of options considered.

A gasoline electric current generator for a private house is a personal power plant that operates autonomously, regardless of the central power supply. It is used to generate electricity in houses and cottages.

How to choose an electric generator? Why and in what cases should you choose one that runs on gasoline, and not on some other fuel? To answer this question, first you need to figure out what kind of electric current generators are.

Types of electric current generators

There are few basic ones. Total 3:

• gasoline;
• diesel;
• gas.

The principle of operation of all devices is the same and is similar to the operation of an internal combustion engine of a car: the fuel is first loaded into the tank, from where it enters the internal combustion chamber. It is ignited with a spark. Thermal electricity is produced because the fuel is burned in the engine. The difference is in the form of fuel.

In addition, generators are synchronous and asynchronous.

Synchronous generators are better suited for powering devices that are sensitive to voltage drops, and these are all household appliances: refrigerators, televisions, computers. But such units are less reliable. Asynchronous are structurally simpler, but more durable and cheaper. It is most correct to choose them for a summer residence, where equipment is most often used that is not so demanding on voltage drops.

Manual, automatic and semi-automatic.

Hand generators are started with a cord, similar to how chainsaws and trimmers run on gasoline. Semi-automatic - with the help of a button. Both those and others are better suited in the case of periodic use to generate electricity, that is, as a generator for giving. If they are used as a backup current source, for example, if the electricity in the house suddenly disappears, then automatic start is better. The system turns on by itself, and no human intervention is required in order to start the generator.

All of the above applies to a gasoline electric generator for a private house, running on any type of fuel. You need to consider gasoline devices.

Gasoline generators

This type of electric current generators consists of an internal combustion engine running on AI-92 gasoline and an alternator. They are easier to operate than diesel powered ones. Therefore, their best use will be the use of cottages.

Such mini-power plants have many advantages and very few disadvantages.

Advantages:

1. Low price compared to diesel and gas generators. It depends on the power of the unit, gasoline consumption, engine characteristics. It also matters who the manufacturer is: products of well-known companies are much more expensive. But on average, a gas generator, based on these characteristics, is about 2 times cheaper than a diesel one.
2. Compactness and mobility. A gasoline-powered electricity generator has a small weight - a maximum of 100 kg, diesel ones weigh much more. Gasoline is easy to move around the site, so for summer cottages this is the best choice.
3. Low noise level. The noisiest are diesel units, so they require a separate room and improved sound insulation. So, if the noise level of diesel generators is 80-100 dB, then gasoline - no more than 50. And according to sanitary standards, already at a distance of 7 m it should not be higher than 74 dB. The thing is that the frequency of rotation in an engine running on diesel fuel is higher than that of gasoline ones. And the higher the RPM, the higher the noise. And if we choose a high-frequency motor, then we should think about a system for protecting a person from extra decibels. For example, place the unit in a separate room with additional sound insulation.
4. Possibility to use rarely. This is a very important advantage, primarily for summer residents who are trying to get the maximum result at a minimum cost. The cost of a gasoline generator is small, especially if we are not talking about the most powerful unit. Namely, this type of mini-power plant is distinguished by a wide variety of the most compact (this also applies to power) generators.

But it is necessary to say about the shortcomings. The first is the flip side of one of its advantages: there is a power limit for gasoline generators for summer cottages. Therefore, they are not suitable for those who need a mini-power station for constant power supply at home, including the operation of all electrical appliances. 2 disadvantage - the need for periodic cooling, i.e. they cannot work continuously and need temporary stops. In addition, they have low efficiency, and gasoline is more expensive than diesel fuel. So to the question of how to choose a generator, the answer is obvious: you need to think through all the details and proceed from personal needs and available opportunities.

Types of gasoline generators

If the owner decided to stop at a mini-electric power plant that runs on gasoline, then here you need to figure out what varieties exist. This will further clarify the question of which generator to choose:

1. So, gas generators are: 2- and 4-stroke. The first have the smallest power - 1 kW. Therefore, they are used mainly in small cottages - for lighting and connecting a small number of electrical appliances. The second ones are more powerful - up to 15 kW can provide electricity to larger summer cottages, as well as small houses. But the cost of their work is higher, since more fuel is consumed.
2. 1- and 3-phase. The usual generator for the home, which is used in everyday life, is single-phase, as it supplies electricity to appliances that operate on 1-phase wiring. 3-phase units are more powerful and are usually used in industry. If they are used in everyday life, then experts warn: the difference between the phases should not exceed 20%.
3. Have air or water type of engine cooling. On the air type, generators cannot work for more than a day and need to be stopped after this period. On water - they work longer without interruption. In addition, with the air type of cooling, a spacious area is required so that the air flows to them well and freely.

How to calculate generator power?

This is a very important point. For example, it is not always necessary to purchase the most powerful electric generator for a summer residence. Otherwise, it will simply work in vain. To prevent this from happening, you need to perform the simplest arithmetic operations. Sum up the power of all electrical appliances in the house, plus take into account the consumption of electricity for lighting, and then increase the resulting amount by a third to avoid overloads. On average, for a small house, everything needs a power of about 2 kW per day. And for a summer residence, 1 kW is enough.

And another essential detail: the generator should not work less than 80% of its rated load. This mode is the best, as it is the most economical. Otherwise, the efficiency of work will be very low.

A powerful gas generator should not be purchased if a mini-power plant is not constantly needed. Models with power from 0.6 to 7 kW are sold on the market today. So there is a choice. Which is better?

For example, for a summer residence (seasonal residence) or if it is necessary to organize a backup (in case of a power outage) and autonomous power supply at home, it is better to purchase a gasoline generator with a capacity of 5 to 10 kW, manual or semi-automatic, with any type of cooling, 1-phase. From it, electricity for a summer residence is quite enough.

Well, if we are talking about a large house or organizing a permanent power supply in the house, then it is better to choose a high-power diesel automatic generator, with an additional casing and located in a separate room.

In private homes, power outages are quite common. The unreliability of public power lines and the remoteness of some areas from power lines force owners to look for alternative sources of electricity, to purchase power generators. As a backup source and for small houses, gasoline-powered devices are best suited. And how to choose a gasoline generator for your home, you will learn from this article.

To begin with, let's figure out what a fuel generator is, on what principle it works. A generator is a small power plant that operates independently of the source of electricity, generating it on its own. It needs some fuel (gasoline, diesel or gas) to work. It consumes about half a liter per hour. Performance depends on the power of the device. Pour fuel into the tank, it enters the internal combustion chamber. There it is ignited, and the thermal energy released during combustion is converted into electricity.

When choosing a generator, first of all, pay attention to the type of fuel. A gas generator is the best option if you have a small summer cottage, or you choose a power plant for yourself as a backup source, which you will use only when the central electricity is turned off.

Features of gas generators

Gasoline powered generators are the cheapest. Their price starts from 3 thousand rubles, and reaches 50-60 thousand rubles. The price tag depends on the power, fuel consumption, engine features, country of origin.

They do an excellent job with small loads and a small amount of equipment in the house. In addition, gas generators are quite light. They can be easily transported, taken with you on trips.

Such mini-power plants are quite quiet, especially compared to diesel ones. They can even be placed in the house, they do not require additional sound insulation. The noise level is approximately 50 dB.

Important! Sources of electricity running on gasoline are able to start even at -20˚С.

engine's type

Gasoline generators can be two-stroke and four-stroke. All of them are equipped with ICE.

Smaller models are equipped with a two-stroke engine. They are easy to start even at -20°C. They consume little fuel and are easy to handle.

Four-stroke motors are needed for units that operate for a long time without interruption. This motor is highly efficient. It does not need to add a mixture of oils, but it does not turn on well at low temperatures.

Engines are also divided by the number of cylinders and the materials from which they are made.

Aluminum cylinders are the most unstable and may not last long. They can only be installed at small stations. With them, you can go to nature, fishing and hunting, since such units are quite light.

Motors with cast iron cylinders are much more powerful and heavy. They cost more. Devices of this type can be used to power small cottages. In addition, they can be used for road construction, resource extraction, and for work in the fields.

The most powerful power plants are equipped with a four-stroke engine and cast iron cylinders. They are capable of operating for more than 3,000 hours and are most similar to diesel models. They will cope with the power supply of a large house with many consumers. The price of such models is the highest.

Generators by type of work

Mini power plants running on gasoline can be synchronous and asynchronous. Asynchronous devices are resistant to environmental influences. They easily tolerate high humidity, dirt, dust. They are affordable, adapted to work with electrical appliances that have a constant current at start-up.

Synchronous devices tolerate starting overloads well. Suitable for work with inductive devices , for example , welding machine , pump . They cost more than asynchronous ones.

Generators are also divided into brush and brushless. Brushless models are less demanding in operation, and their maintenance is much cheaper.

phase

When buying a power plant, look at how many phases are represented in a particular model. Modern generators can have either three phases or one. A three-phase apparatus will be required for pumps, welding, etc. If you plan to use only a TV, iron, refrigerator and other standard electrical appliances, then one phase will be enough for you.

Important ! In order to avoid overheating, remember that when connecting single-phase devices to a three-phase generator, it is necessary to monitor the load per one phase. It should not be higher than the total power of the device.

Calculation of the required power

In order for all your appliances to work without problems, before buying a generator, you need to calculate the load on it. The electricity that the generator produces should be enough to supply energy to all the appliances you have, with a surcharge of about 25-30% in case of emergencies.

Approximate numbers:

• for use in hiking, a unit with a power of up to 1.5 kW will suffice;
• to supply electricity to a small country house, a generator with a capacity of up to 5 kW is suitable;
• for medium and large cottages, a station with a power of up to 15 kW is suitable;
• for cottages with a large number of consumers and mini-productions, a generator with a capacity of more than 15 kW is required.

Keep in mind that if the maximum load from electrical appliances exceeds the power of the generator, then it will work for no more than a few minutes. Devices running on gasoline with auto start must have a power not exceeding the total coefficient by 70%. Thanks to this, you can reduce fuel consumption and extend the life of the unit.

Business continuity

An important indicator is the continuity of the device. It determines the time that the unit operates without refueling. This characteristic depends on the volume of the fuel tank and the load on the generator. That is, the more electricity is consumed, the higher the fuel consumption, and the less time the generator runs.

Powerful four-cylinder generators have the largest fuel tank of 20 liters. Such models work without interruption up to 15 hours. But small units with a two-stroke engine can work no more than three hours. However, they also consume a minimum amount of fuel.

Weight

The weight of the unit is important if you plan to constantly move it. This indicator directly depends on the power. The higher the power, the greater the weight, respectively. So, generators with a power of more than 10 kW weigh more than 100 kg.

additional characteristics

As a rule, any gasoline electric generator used for a private house has a number of additional features. Among them:

Connecting the gas generator to the network

After buying a power plant, the question arises of how to connect it to the building. There are two types of connection:

The best models of gas generators

If you are looking for a gasoline electric generator for a private house for backup use or supplying electricity to a small country house, then it is best to choose a gasoline installation. It is very economical and easy to use. A family with an average income can afford it. The generator will help you out in the unpleasant situation of an unexpected power outage.

If you often experience power outages at home or in the country, you must definitely take care of an autonomous power supply to the site. The easiest way is to buy a power plant that can help out for a certain time until the light is turned back on. We will tell you how to choose a generator for your home by power, manufacturer and other parameters.

Main selection criteria

Gasoline, diesel or gas?

The first thing you need to decide is what fuel the generator will run on. Today, power plants for the home can be diesel, gasoline, gas and inventory. It is difficult to say which option is better to choose for home use, because it all depends on the individual conditions of use. To make it easier for you to make a choice, we will briefly consider the advantages and disadvantages of each generator.

Gasoline power plants are the cheapest (the price is from 15 thousand rubles with a power of 3 kW), moreover, they work quietly and have compact dimensions. Due to their dimensions, they are quite easy to transport, so this option is better to choose for a summer residence. The disadvantage is the higher cost of gasoline and consumption, which is higher than alternative options.

There are gasoline models that operate in a more economical mode - inverter (pictured below). Such generators are better, however, they are more expensive. The undoubted advantage of inverter power generators is their compactness and the supply of equipment with high quality current. If you want to choose a portable power station for connecting sensitive electrical appliances, an inverter device is the best option.

Diesel power generators are more expensive (from 30 thousand rubles) and work a little louder, but the advantages of such models are economy, reliability and the ability to operate in uninterrupted mode if the power plant is of a stationary type, with liquid cooling. I would also like to note that diesel generators work normally at a temperature not lower than -5 o C, tk. diesel thickens in cold weather.

Gas models are the most economical and quiet, however, the cost of such power plants is an order of magnitude higher than that of other options (from 40 thousand rubles). In addition, it is advisable to choose a gas generator only if gas is supplied to the site. Otherwise, difficulties arise with the constant filling of the cylinder. Another significant drawback is that only specialists should connect such a power plant to the central highway.

In addition, there are combined models - gas-gasoline, and gas-diesel. The dual-fuel system allows for autonomous power supply at home using two types of fuel. There is no need to turn off the generator during fuel switching. If you like this model, you can choose it, especially since the cost is not too different from previous power plants - from 40 thousand rubles.

Equipment power

In order to choose the right generator in terms of power, it is necessary to calculate the load that will be turned on at the time of autonomous supply of electricity to the house. It is clear that you can have a 5-kilowatt stove, a powerful submersible pump and a system in all rooms in your country cottage, but this does not mean that you need to choose a power plant for all these consumers. If you rarely visit a summer cottage, it is enough to choose an electric generator that will be designed for lighting in some rooms and on the porch, a refrigerator, a laptop charger, and a TV. For example, for these purposes it is quite enough to choose a power plant for 3-5 kW. If you need a device for autonomous power supply of a private house, the power must be at least 10 kW.

It is not difficult to calculate the power of all electrical appliances in the house, however, it should be borne in mind that equipment such as a vacuum cleaner, air conditioner, submersible pump and even a refrigerator have a starting current higher than the rated current, which is due to the peculiarities of the operation of electric motors. This means that for the normal operation of the generator when starting these devices, the power must be higher. In this case, the following coefficients are used in order to correctly calculate the load:

When you calculate the total load, taking into account the coefficients, we recommend adding 10-20% to the final value for the reserve. It should also be noted that some manufacturers indicate in the technical characteristics of power plants the power is not in [kW], but in [kVA]. To convert kVA to kW, you need to multiply the value by 0.8, i.e. – 10 kVA equals 8 kW.

Here, according to this technology, you can choose a generator by power. If you have any questions regarding this item, leave them in the comments!

Additional functions

We also want to pay attention to those functions and features that must be taken into account when choosing a power plant for your home:

1. There are single-phase and three-phase generators. If you have a 220 volt input to the house, you must choose a single-phase model. If the connection to the network is three-phase or there are three-phase consumers in the garage, it would be right to choose a 380 volt generator.
2. Noise level. The normal value is no more than 74 dB for gasoline devices and 82 dB for diesel ones. Moreover, if the power plant is protected by a casing, the noise level should be no more than 70 dB.
3. The presence of a protective cover and silencer. Some manufacturers supply additional soundproofing means in the kit. Well, if there are such in the model you have chosen.
4. Fuel tank volume. Everything is simple here, the more you choose a tank, the longer the generator will work until the next refueling, but, accordingly, the dimensions / weight will increase.
5. The presence of protection against and short circuit. When choosing, be sure to pay attention to the fact that your power plant has additional protective devices that will extend its service life.
6. Cooling system: air or liquid. The second option is more common on expensive stationary models, because. liquid cooling is more efficient.
7. Start type: manual, electric start or auto start. For a summer residence, you can choose an inexpensive option - with a cord that you just need to pull to turn it on. If you want to choose a generator for autonomous power supply of a private house, it is better to stay on a model with auto start. In addition, the automatic transfer system (ATS) allows you to display information about how many hours the operation of the power plant will last.

When choosing, it is also necessary to pay attention to such indicators as the availability of a service center in your city and, no less important, the ability to separately order spare parts for repairs. Otherwise, these nuances are enough to choose a good generator for home and garden. We recommend that you additionally watch a video in which experts give their own advice on choosing a power plant:

Expert opinion

The last thing I would like to talk about is which manufacturers and models of equipment are considered the best in 2017.

Rating of firms and models

To become the owner of a reliable home power plant, we recommend choosing one of the following manufacturers:

• Huter (Germany)
• Elemax (Japan)
• EISEMANN (Germany)
• GEKO (Germany)
• Fubag (Germany)
• Vepr (Russia)
• Kubota (Japan)
• Gesan (Spain)
• GENMAC (Italy)
• Kipor (China/Russia)
• SDMO (France)
• Talon/McCulloch (USA)
• Endress (Germany)
• Briggs and Stratton (USA)
• Hyundai (South Korea)

These power plant firms are the best for 2017 and have many positive reviews online. I would like to pay special attention to domestic Vepr generators, which are optimal in terms of price and quality.

We also bring to your attention a rating of the most reliable models for home and garden. To make it easier for you to choose the appropriate option, consider the most popular devices in terms of power: from 1 to 3 kW, 5-6 kW and about 10 kW, which is respectively used for a minimum power supply, moderate and sufficient for a comfortable stay.

A little explanation: B - gasoline generator, D - gas, D - diesel, G-B - gas-gasoline, I - inverter.

The highest quality generators up to 3 kW, which are better to choose for a summer residence:

1. Fubag BS 3300 (B)
2. Honda EU10i (B, I)
3. DDE GG3300Z (B)
4. Bort BBG-3500 (B)
5. Fubag DS 3600 (D)
6. Huter DY4000LG (G-B)
7. ZUBR ZESG-3500-M2 (G-B)

To work with power tools in the garage, we recommend choosing models with a power of 5-6 kW:

1. Huter DY6500L (B)
2. Fubag BS 6600 A ES (B)
3. Interskol EB-6500 (B)
4. Champion DG6501E (D)
5. Hyundai DHY-8000 LE (D)

Well, for a complete power supply of the cottage, we recommend choosing one of the models of generators with a capacity of about 10 kW:

1. Fubag DS 14000 DA ES (D)
2. Champion DG10000E (D)
3. Briggs & Stratton 14 kW Standby Generator (D)
4. Honda ET12000 (B)
5. TCC SGG-10000 EH (B)

That's all I wanted to tell you about how to choose a generator for your home and which one is better in terms of power, manufacturer and additional parameters. We hope our tips have helped you find the right option!