5 Types of Generators: Their Advantages and Disadvantages

Generators are standalone appliances that provide electricity in power outages from a local grid. Their core role is to provide a backup power supply to commercial establishments and residential places like homes. Sometimes, they are used as a primary power source in remote areas with no local grid. There are a variety of these generators on Kruger powers.

Generators vary in designs and types depending on their specific purpose. Some are purposely made for household use, while others are for industrial purposes. Every generator has its unique features and characteristics that distinguish it from others. Here are some generator types, their advantages, and their disadvantages.

1. Standby Generators

Standby generators are commonly known as emergency power systems or backup generators. Mainly, they work by switching on automatically immediately after grid power fails. They are very crucial in residential apartments, hospitals, and restaurants. They also greatly enhance safety in hospitals, lifts, and elevators’ fire protection systems, incubators, and life support systems.

They use gas or diesel to run and usually require large external reservoirs capable of keeping them operational for at least 48 hours before another refill. Their commercial engine is vast. It also has an automatic transfer switch, which swings to action in case of a power blackout. They detect power loss within seconds and respond immediately to ensure a continuous power supply.

Advantages

1. They offer prompt emergency power in case of a power outage.
2. A standby generator ensures that your calm is maintained in emergencies since everything operates as usual.
3. Enhances continuous productivity in a firm even when power fails.
4. They are permanently installed; therefore, you don’t need to set up anything in an emergency.

Disadvantages

1. They take a longer time to install compared to other types.
2. They are more expensive to buy and also to install
3. Since they are permanently installed, you cannot move them from place to place.
4. They require annual maintenance, which is a plus to your budget.
5. Portable Generators

Portable generators are readily available, just like other items you can find in online stores. They are beneficial in providing temporary electrical power. They can be used in natural disasters that cause power outages and remote applications like powering a TV or refrigerator. They have varying power configurations based on different uses.

Advantages

1. The essential advantage of this generator is that it is very fuel-efficient. Its engine is designed to consume a small amount of fuel at a time.
2. Apart from fuel, portable generators can also use gas.

Disadvantages

1. It cannot be used inside a premise.
2. Since it is operated outdoors, it needs utmost protection from harsh weather conditions.
3. Diesel Generators

A diesel generator is popularly known as a diesel Genset. It can convert diesel fuel energy into electricity when the diesel engine and electric generator combine efforts. It is applicable in households and industrial plants. When powered by diesel, its internal combustion engines ignite fuel and air.

Advantages

1. diesel-fueled generators burn in a more relaxed manner, thus increasing their life and durability. The durability can be enhanced by regular servicing and proper maintenance.

2. Low operational costs since diesel fuels are much cheaper and easily accessible than other generators.

3. Low maintenance costs for diesel generators, unlike different types like gasoline.

4. Ability to supply high power voltages, between 15Kw and 200Kw, even when working long hours.

Disadvantages

1. Diesel generators are notorious for emitting high amounts of harmful smoke during use.

2. Noise pollution: Diesel-powered generators are louder than natural gas and gasoline generators.

2. Natural Gas Generators

Natural gas is one of the most reliable and efficient fuels globally. It works just like other types of generators. It uses either propane or liquefied petroleum gas to give out energy. Natural gas is the most efficient because it can be stored in tanks, underground, or on surface tanks. As such, the generators become incredibly durable.

It is challenging for these generators to run out of fuel. The most important thing is connecting them to the gas line. Also, since gas is naturally available, you will undoubtedly have an unlimited supply using these generators.

Advantages

1. Natural gas is very clean when burnt, making it safe for household use. The cleanliness also prolongs engine life.
2. These generators run silently, and therefore, they have no noise pollution.
3. They don’t require refueling since their source is unlimited.

Disadvantages

1. There are higher installation costs due to plumbing costs as they get connected to running gas lines.
2. Unavailability of fuel during natural disasters
3. Propane-fueled generators have a shorter life span compared to diesel generators.
4. If gas lines break or leak, they can be very dangerous.
5. Gasoline Generators

Gasoline generators are also referred to as gas generators. People prefer to use these generators where gasoline is readily available. Also, gasoline generators are cheaper than other types, which makes many people go after them. These generators are more suitable if you require less power supply. A standby gasoline generator is more recommendable for home installation for efficient output.

Advantages

1. Gasoline generators are highly portable since they are available in small sizes. This feature is what makes them distinctive from all other types of generators. As such, they are the perfect fit for campsites.
2. They are competitively cheap, thus making them more preferred to many firms and households.

Disadvantages

1. Gasoline generators are very noisy and can be annoying.
2. Due to their portability nature, they require regular maintenance to enhance their durability.
3. During cold weather, starting a gasoline generator is much more tricky.

They are great power backups that will ensure the continuity of your operations in case of a power outage. In conclusion, a generator should not be optional for organizations and individuals. Contact Kruger Powers today for your most suitable generator set.