Posted on 07/03/2014 5:39:13 AM PDT by TurboZamboni
There’s nothing like the approach of a possible hurricane, such as this season's first named storm, Tropical Storm Arthur, to get everyone in its expected path thinking about generators. But for some prospective buyers, the noise and the quality of power that a portable generator supplies is a turn-off. That’s where an inverter model comes in. Using new technology, inverter generators deliver cleaner power and are typically quieter, lighter, and more energy efficient. But as Consumer Reports is learning in its ongoing generator tests, not every inverter generator is worth the 100-to-200-percent premium you’ll pay over the usual cost of a conventional portable.
We haven’t yet completed testing of the Honda EU7000is, Kipor Sinemaster IG6000h, and Yamaha EF6300iSDE. But limited testing has shown us that sometimes it’s features other than wattage and connection options that make a generator worth having.
Honda EU7000is. At $4,000, this is the most expensive of the three inverter generators we’re testing. But for usability, so far this one comes out on top.
(Excerpt) Read more at homes.yahoo.com ...
Honda makes small generators too. I think as small as 800 watts. I see them all the time at the dog shows. They use them to run blow dryers. I would check into one of those. You also may be able to pick up a used Honda on Craigslist if you are patient.
2.5 gallon
Hubby has a couple of generators which he sometimes needs on construction sites.
When we have had extended power outages, we use the larger one (Honda) to run 2 refrigerators, freezer, window air conditioner, oxygen compressor for elderly father on oxygen 24/7, and a couple of lamps.
It was a lifesaver for my father. Many of the homebound had to go the hospital and emergency centers to get their oxygen after the portable tanks ran out.
Still I’d like to have an automatic back up generator and a propane tank for longer term useage, but some things are just too expensive to do right now, and this is not at the top of my list.
I do have fans that run on rechargeable batteries, and solar charging station for a little additonal comfort in the summer.
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