What is a Generator?
A generator refers to an electrical device that converts a form of energy into electricity.
The input energy can be in the form of fuel like petrol, diesel, or natural gas. It could also be from water (hydroelectric), wind, or solar power.
How Do Generators Work?
Generators work by using a fuel source to create mechanical energy.
It is essential to note that a generator does not actually 'create' electrical energy.
Instead, it utilizes the mechanical energy supplied to it to force the movement of electric charges available in the wire of its windings through an external electric circuit.
This flow of electric charges forms the output electric current supplied by the generator.
Michael Faraday discovered the modern-day generator, which works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. This is where a magnetic field is used to create voltage and an electric current in a nearby conductor.
Types of Generator
There are two types of generators:
Dynamos
A dynamo uses mechanical energy to create direct current (DC) electricity.
It is considered the first electrical generator used to transfer power for industry and the basis of many other later electric-power conversion devices such as the electric motor, rotary converter, and alternating-current alternator.
Alternators
The second type of generator is the alternator, also known as a synchronous generator, which uses mechanical energy to create alternating current (AC) electricity.
Alternators are used to produce the power for the electrical systems of modern vehicles. Another usage is in the diesel-electric locomotives.
Functions of Generators
Generators have many functions. Some of these include:
Back-up Power During Power Outages
When there are power outages, most especially for non-emergency reasons, one of the functions of generators is to provide backup power.
Generators are beneficial for homes and businesses that rely on electricity to function.
Standby Power for Businesses
Another common usage for generators is standby power for businesses. This is where a generator is used as a backup in case the main power supply is lost. This ensures that the business can continue its operation as usual without interruption.
Temporary Power Supply
A generator can also be used as a temporary power supply for events or construction sites. This is where a generator is used to provide power for a limited period of time.
Permanent Power
In some cases, generators are used as a permanent power source. This is where the generator is used to provide power for an extended period of time.
Supporting the Main Power Supply
Generators are sometimes used to support the main power supply. This is where the generator is used to supplement the power supply during times of high demand.
Generator Safety Tips
Here are ten useful safety tips to follow when using a generator:
1. Do not set a generator indoors or in an enclosed space. The generator must be placed at least 20 feet from the house, and the engine when exhaust must be directed away from windows or doors.
2. When buying a generator, it must have a built-in carbon monoxide (CO) safety technology. There are new generators that have a device that detects dangerous levels of carbon monoxide and turns off the machine when levels rise too high.
3. Avoid electrical hazards. The outlets on the generator can be used if you do not have a transfer switch yet. Just make sure you follow certain precautions. Thus, it is advisable to plug in devices directly to the generator.4.
4. Do not attempt to backfeed your house. Backfeeding refers to the attempt to power the wiring on your home by plugging the generator into a wall outlet.
This reckless and dangerous act could present an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors with the same utility transformers. Thus, this could also be a cause of an electrical fire.
5. Install a transfer switch prior to the next storm. The purpose of a transfer switch is to connect the generator to your circuit panel and allows you to power hardwired appliances while averting the safety risk of using extension cords.
6. Never set a portable generator in the rain. Keep your generator shielded from the rain. Never operate a generator inside a wet or damp area to avoid electrocution.
7. Disable a gas-powered generator and let it cool before refueling. Letting the engine cool lowers the risk of burns while refueling.
8. Keep extra gasoline and store it properly. When you store extra gasoline, be sure to store it in a container approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and position it in a cool and well-ventilated area.
9. Only use generators that are rated for the voltage and amperage required by your equipment. Using a generator that is not properly rated could cause damage to your equipment.
10. Make sure the generator is properly grounded. Your generator must Your generator must properly be grounded to avoid electrocution.
Key Takeaways
A generator is a machine that changes mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Generators can be utilized for various purposes, such as backup power during power outages, standby power for businesses, temporary power supply, permanent power, and supporting the main power supply.
There are different types of generators, such as dynamos and alternators.
Generators must be used safely to avoid risks, such as electrocution and fires.
Some safety tips include never running a generator in an enclosed space or indoors, placing the generator at least 20 feet from the house and engine, and using a generator with built-in carbon monoxide (CO) safety technology.
Installing a transfer switch is also recommended to avoid using extension cords. If you must use extension cords, make sure they are heavy-duty.
Extra gasoline should be stored in a container approved by the ANSI in a cool and well-ventilated area.
When using a generator, make sure that it is properly rated for the voltage and amperage required by your equipment and properly grounded.
By observing these safety tips, you can use a generator safely and effectively.
FAQs
1. What is a generator?
A generator converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. It is usually powered by an internal combustion engine, such as a diesel or gasoline engine.
2. How do generators work?
Generators work by using a fuel source to create mechanical energy. It utilizes the mechanical energy supplied to it to force the movement of electric charges available in the wire of its windings through an external electric circuit. This flow of electric charges forms the output electric current supplied by the generator.
3. What are the different types of generators?
The two main types of generators are dynamos and alternators. A dynamo uses mechanical energy to create direct current (DC) electricity. An alternator uses mechanical energy to create alternating current (AC) electricity.
4. What are the functions of generators?
Generators can be utilized for various purposes, such as backup power during power outages, standby power for businesses, temporary power supply, permanent power, and supporting the main power supply.
5. What are some generator safety tips?
Some safety tips for using generators include never running a generator in an enclosed space or indoors, placing the generator at least 20 feet from the house and engine, and using a generator with built-in carbon monoxide (CO) safety technology. Installing a transfer switch is also recommended in order to avoid using extension cords. If you must use extension cords, make sure that they are heavy-duty. Extra gasoline should be stored in a container that is approved by the ANSI in a cool and well-ventilated area. When using a generator, make sure that it is properly rated for the voltage and amperage required by your equipment and properly grounded.
Power outages are usually the result of extreme weather events such as high winds, lightning strikes, or ice buildup that causes overhead power lines to break. For the preparedness-minded among us, these infrequent but often disastrous blackouts are reason enough to make backup emergency power supply plans for our homes.
Though local utility crews work tirelessly to restore service outages, in heavily hit areas it can sometimes be days before the electricity is back on. Preparing for extreme weather—and now, possible domestic terrorism—are reasons enough why every household should have a portable generator at the ready to run appliances, heating, and air when the power goes out. For some households, including those with medical needs or transportation limitations, a portable generator is an absolute necessity. Here’s why.
What is a portable generator?
Portable generators provide power to tools and appliances when you need supplemental electricity. They run on gasoline, diesel, or propane and are typically equipped with at least two electrical outlets. Because their combustion engines emit fumes, portable generators should only be used outdoors and at a safe distance from living spaces, although extension cords can be used to carry the power indoors.
1. Without one, you could lose your perishable food supply.
If your fridge is fully stocked, you could lose hundreds of dollars worth of refrigerated and frozen items if the power stays out more than a few hours. The USDA recommends throwing out perishable foods just 4 hours after a refrigerator loses power. If, however, you can connect the fridge to a portable generator, you won’t have to worry about the expense of restocking.
2. You drive an electric car.
While a power outage keeps most people in the dark, it can completely strand electric car owners. If you depend on an electric car to get around, having a portable generator will ensure that you can drive to work, go to the grocery store, pick up the babysitter, rush to the emergency room, or travel wherever else you need to go, even during an extended blackout.
RELATED: 16 Problems a Power Outage Can Cause at Home
3. You’re DIY-ing beyond the reach of an electrical outlet.
Power tools make home projects go faster and more easily. But what if you’re working somewhere an extension cord won’t reach? If you’re installing a new fence on the back forty or building a she-shed at the end of long lot, you need another solution. A portable generator will let you plug in your power tools and get your project done quickly instead of having to switch out batteries on your cordless tools, or head home to recharge them.
4. Your house uses well water.
Municipal water systems are pressurized, so water will come out of the faucet whether or not there’s a power outage. Not so for rural dwellers who depend on electric pumps to pump the water out of their wells and into their homes. But if you have a portable generator, you can plug the well pump into it and keep the water flowing during a power outage.
RELATED: 15 Ways to Prep for a Winter Power Outage
5. You have a sump pump in the basement.
In areas where flooding is an issue, basements often have sump pumps that pump away unwanted water before it can accumulate and cause damage. Heavy rains are the worst possible times for sump pumps to stop working, and unfortunately, power outages often occur during thunderstorms. When you plug the sump pump into a portable generator, you gain the peace of mind of knowing your basement will stay dry even though the power is out.
6. You live in an area where there’s a high risk of wildfires.
Utility companies have been known to shut off power to customers in heavily wooded and drought-stricken areas if there’s a high risk of fire. The shutoff is often in conjunction with the prediction of high winds that pose a risk of downed power lines—a leading cause of fires. But with a portable generator handy, you’ll always have a source of electricity during those utility shutdowns.
RELATED: How to Protect Your Property From Wildfires
7. You go camping regularly.
If your family enjoys sleeping under the stars, they’ll enjoy it even more when they have the ability to charge their phones, keep drinks cold in a mini-fridge, and check email on their laptops. With a portable generator, you can enjoy all your modern conveniences while you’re camping in the great outdoors.
8. You have a home business.
When you run a home business, a simple power outage could mean a complete work shutdown unless you have a generator. With the growing gig economy, millions of Americans work from home. It’s essential for them to have a portable generator on hand to keep the Wi-Fi, PC, printers, and internet running, even in the middle of a widespread power outage.
RELATED: Buyer’s Guide: The Best Quiet Generators
9. You rely on an electronic medical device.
If you or a family member is dependent on a medical device—such as a heart monitor, an oxygen tank, or a rechargeable power chair—advance planning is vital. When a life is on the line, it’s especially important to be prepared. You not only need a portable generator, but you also must have extension cords and the fuel for your generator so you can switch to your alternate power source at a moment’s notice.