Portable generators are useful in a variety of circumstances. They can supply emergency back-up power for a few appliances in the event of a power outage, and are a handy way to power electronic equipment on a camping trip or for an outdoor event. Whatever the reason you need portable power, Honda offers a generator that should work.
Choosing A Generator
When selecting a portable generator, the first consideration is making sure the generator you choose can run the equipment you need. Check the generator’s “rated” or “continuous” watts to see how much power the generator can consistently put out. This is the rating that tells you whether or not the generator can supply enough power for the devices you want to operate. Generators also list a “maximum” or “starting” wattage, but that only lets you know how much extra power the generator can put out for a short time when starting an electric motor.
Make sure the size and weight works for you as well. You don’t want to buy a generator hoping to use it for portable power and then have trouble moving it from place to place. Noise level is also a concern, especially if the generator will be used during an event, while camping, or in town. Honda’s decibel chart compares the noise level of each generator to common everyday sounds so you can get an idea of how loud each will run.
Honda Portable Generators
Honda’s smaller EU generators are compact, so you can move them by hand. Larger models are equipped with wheels. They are less portable, but supply more power.
The EU1000i supplies 900 rated watts of power, and weighs less than 29 pounds. It can power things like lights, a TV, a microwave, coffee maker, or two-way radio. The larger EU2000i weighs less than 47 pounds, and supplies 1600 rated watts. It is large enough to power a computer or energy-efficient refrigerator. For more power, you can link two EU2000i Companion generators.
The EU3000i Handi is Honda’s lightest weight 3000 watt generator. It weighs 78 pounds, and supplies 2600 rated watts. The EU3000iS is heavier, weighing 124 pounds, but supplies 2800 rated watts. These generators are both powerful enough to run an RV air conditioner, and the EU3000iS could run a furnace fan as back-up power in the winter.
Generator Tips
Keeping a few tips in mind when using your generator will extend its life and help keep you safe. Let the generator cool down before re-fueling, to prevent splashing any fuel on a warm engine, and be sure to protect your generator from rain and wet while it is running to avoid a risk of electrocution.
Plug appliances directly into the generator, or use a heavy-duty grounded extension cord to supply power. Also, since running engines produces carbon dioxide, do not run the generator in an enclosed area like a garage, house or RV. Generators are best placed outdoors, away from open windows and doors.
