profile cart support@generatormart.com 877.363.0349

GENERATOR BUYER’S GUIDE

 

portable-gas-power-generator

PORTABLE GENERATORS

Conveniently power your home, camping adventure, tailgate, or job site with a versatile portable generator.

LEARN MORE
household-backup-power-generator

STANDBY GENERATORS

Investing in a standby generator gives you peace of mind in an outage at home or work, keeping the power on when it matters most.

LEARN MORE
cummins-onan-RV-QG2300-inside-RV-rack

RV GENERATORS

Power your RV, food truck, or mobile business with a built-in generator that conveniently moves with you.

LEARN MORE
reliance-pro-tran-2-30-amps-125-250-volt-6-space-6-circuits-generator-power-transfer-kit

TRANSFER SWITCHES

Transfer switches control the source of power to your generator, ensuring safety and reliability.

LEARN MORE
briggs-portable-generator-household-garage

Buying a Portable Generator

Learn the main considerations for selecting and purchasing a portable generator.

The most diverse category of generators, portable generators are built for versatility and portability, providing power away from the electrical grid. Common use cases include recreational activities like camping or tailgating and professional use for construction or mobile businesses. Some people use portable generators as a backup power source for home essentials during an outage.

When do I choose a portable generator?
Simply put, you should choose a portable generator when you need power on the go. They offer more portability than other more permanent options like the standby or RV generator and can have lower associated costs depending on the use case.
How do I know what size generator to get?
Calculate the wattage you’ll need to power, leaving a buffer in case you use more than your calculation. Consider the durability you’ll need based on where you intend to use it and the number of desired outlets.
Which fuel source should I choose?
Once you’ve narrowed your choices, you may have a few options for fuel sources: diesel, gasoline, battery, and/or solar. Many buyers choose environmentally friendly options like solar when possible. Additionally, clean sources may work better with certain electronics. However, some high-power generators will require you to use diesel to get a high enough output.
SHOP PORTABLE GENERATORS

Buying a Standby Generator

Learn the main considerations for selecting and purchasing a standby generator.

Standby generators provide robust, reliable power to homes and businesses looking for a permanent solution for backup power in emergencies or outages. Many buyers gain peace of mind and appreciate that standby generators will also keep them safer in those situations.

When do I choose a standby generator?
Standby generators are ideal for homes and businesses that don’t require portable power. They are built to handle higher wattages than portable generators and can power beyond just a few essentials, keeping your home or business’ power running close to normal depending on the type you choose. They require installation and connection to your existing electrical systems.
How do I know what size generator to get?
Use our sizing calculator to determine your exact wattage needs. Standby generators also come in three main types: home standby, whole house, and commercial.
What’s the difference between air-cooled and liquid‐cooled?
Once you’ve narrowed your choices, you may have a few options for fuel sources: diesel, gasoline, battery, and/or solar. Many buyers choose environmentally friendly options like solar when possible. Additionally, clean sources may work better with certain electronics. However, some high-power generators will require you to use diesel to get a high enough output.
SHOP STANDBY GENERATORS
generac-home-standby-generator-dusk-backyard-house-lights-on-2
rv-generator-slide-out

Buying an RV Generator

Learn the main considerations for selecting and purchasing an RV generator.

RVs require more power than ever as they have evolved to include the latest technologies, appliances, and modern conveniences. When you don’t have access to an RV electrical hookup, you can use a built-in RV generator to power your adventures comfortably. Mobile businesses like food trucks and pet groomers can also use an RV generator.

When do I choose an RV generator?
RV generators are installed into your RV or truck and connected to its electrical system. Unlike portable generators, this installation is permanent. Benefits include easy use and on/off functionality, more power, and they are powered by your vehicle’s fuel.
How do I choose the right size?
With RV generators, you’ll need to calculate the wattage of the applications and essentials you’ll want to power. You’ll also need to locate and measure the space where the generator will fit to determine what’s feasible for your vehicle’s size.
Should I still purchase an RV generator if I plan on using RV electrical hookups?
It depends. There are plenty of scenarios where you might want to power your RV when you’re not at a campsite. An investment in an RV generator may be more expensive but gives you more freedom and flexibility in how and where you use your RV.
SHOP RV GENERATORS

Buying Transfer Switches

Learn the main considerations for selecting and purchasing transfer switches.

Transfer switches control the flow of electricity between your generator and what you need to power. They are most commonly used to enable the functionality of standby generators, but they can also be used to reduce the number of cords required for a portable power supply.

When do I need a transfer switch?
Standby generators require an automatic transfer switch. Many standby generators come with a transfer switch. As a buyer, you should confirm that your standby generator includes a transfer switch, or make a plan to purchase one if it doesn’t. You might replace an old or broken one, or upgrade if you are looking for certain features like automation capabilities, size, and durability.
What is the difference between a manual and an automatic transfer switch?
A manual transfer switch requires you to turn on the connection between the generator and your electrical system when you need to use your generator. An automatic transfer switch will detect an outage and turn on automatically.
What are the configuration options?
Depending on how you want to use your generator, the transfer switch will connect to your main breaker panel or a sub-panel. Additionally, you can opt for a service-rated transfer switch to replace your main panel and reduce the amount of wiring necessary for a standby generator.
SHOP TRANSFER SWITCHES
cummins-OTEC-transfer-switch-HPR

Stay Powered with a Generator

Select the generator that will meet your needs and keep you powered.

 

Shop Standby Generators

Stay Powered with a Generator

Select the generator that will meet your needs and keep you powered.

 

Shop Standby Generators

Contact Us Today!

With a focus on providing a superior level of service, our team is always ready to answer your questions or provide assistance to ensure the right choice.