From cords to mufflers that reduce noise, generator accessories come in a variety of beneficial forms. The best generator accessories vary based upon your needs, time of year, and so forth. A generator can turn a bad day into a good day by keeping your power running even when the rest of the world seems to be in the dark.
When the main power grid shuts down, a generator is still able to produce and output energy.
Knowing the available accessories for generators can help you get the most value out of your generator. But first, it’s important to understand the two main types of generators and what they offer.
The 2 Types of Generators
There are two general types of generators: standby generators and portable generators. Standby generators are larger and more powerful with the capacity to keep an entire business up and running in the face of a power outage. This is the more common option used by commercial locations during a power outage.
The other type of generator is a portable generator, a smaller portable option that offers a lot less power. Because they lack the same power as standby generators, they tend to run quieter and take up less space. Your typical portable generator can fuel a few basic home appliances, or around 1-2 rooms in a residential house. Portable generators are commonly used to fuel residential needs during a power outage. They are also popular features on camping trips.
5 Must-Have Generator Accessories
The following generator accessories are among the most valuable and important.
1. Power Cord for Generator
First thing’s first, you’re going to need a power cord. Different power cords offer better or worse delivery of electricity so a quality cord is important. A cord’s power to delivery energy is determined by amp specifications, which must be in synch with the generator outlet’s amp specifications. For instance, a 30-amp cord is not compatible with a 50-amp outlet. Cords come in a variety of lengths as well, so it’s important to determine the size power cord you need.
2. Automatic Transfer Switch
An automatic transfer switch prompts the generator to turn on automatically when power to the main grid is lost. The switch turns off the electricity supply coming from the grid and switches over to the generator’s power. When power is restored to the grid, the system automatically shuts down the generator and switches back to the power grid. This prevents downtime and makes it much easier to deal with a power outage. A standby generator gains a lot of value with the addition of a transfer switch. It is far rarer for portable generators to come with a transfer switch.
3. Muffler to Reduce Sound
Generators can get noisy and so like most other machines with a combustion engine, generators come with a muffler that’ll exhaust fumes and limit engine noise. Different mufflers offer unique levels of sound reduction—some are far better than others. Newer and more advanced mufflers come with greater noise-reduction capabilities and can be added to generators if they are a compatible fit.
4. Protective Cover for Generator
Depending on where a generator is located and what time of year it is, a waterproof cover might be necessary to protect it against the elements. This keeps the generator dry and rust-free.
5. Maintenance Kits for Generators
Generators require maintenance just like any machinery. Generator maintenance kits typically come with oil, spark plugs, and an air filter.
Rent Standby Generators and Generator Accessories from Cooling Power
Don’t sweat renting or buying a generator or generator accessories! Cooling Power makes it easy to rent or buy a generator and all our rentals come with the accessories you need. Plus, we offer on-site maintenance and around-the-clock customer support. Contact us today to learn more