Diesel fuel has around 10 to 15 percent more energy than gasoline. This difference accumulates quickly over time, turning a seemingly insignificant decision into an impactful choice between the two.
There are plenty of variables to consider depending on use. For generators, diesel is the way to go. So, you’ve decided on your fuel source. What now?
Well, it’s time to start looking for the best diesel generator for your needs. Picking one can be a bit complicated, considering the wide selection available in the market.
However, if you read ahead, you’ll see everything you need to make the process that much easier.
Factors to Consider
Before you find the best diesel standby generator for your needs, keep tabs on why you want one. The first assumption most people make is that these machines can power an entire household. The truth is that a majority are meant for necessities, like lighting and refrigeration.
So, before making your pick, decide what your priorities are. For example, some appliances might serve essential functions for you and your family. One example might be a dialysis machine, where no electricity can lead to life and death situations.
While many essential appliances come with built-in backup batteries, outages often last longer than expected. Write out a list of items that you want to keep powered before picking a generator.
Of course, budget always fits into the equation. Don’t fret if you’re limited in resources, as there are plenty of used diesel generators for sale that work just as well with a bit of maintenance.
Safety and Additional Equipment
You’ll want to invest in accessories that go hand-in-hand with your generator. These items make situations where you depend on home energy production much more comfortable. Beyond comfort, though, they also create an overall safer environment.
You should never plug the apparatus into a socket in your home circuitry. To avoid this mistake, extension cables with additional slots can help a ton. It prevents a typical fallacy where a lack of sockets in the generator leads to someone haphazardly reconfiguring the setup.
Energy Production
It’s crucial to consider energy production before purchasing a generator, second only to safety measures. It’s simple both in concept and execution, though. As previously stated, your need to find the sum of wattage requirements for all items you want to stay powered.
Once you have a number, find a generator that produces slightly more, and the first step is done. Next, you’ll want to calculate how much diesel fuel to store based on consumption. Then you’re pretty much set!
Take a look at two of the most common generator choices for home use.
Best 20 kW Diesel Generator
The Cummins 20kw is considered the best for necessities. It’s quite versatile and easy to accommodate, as it’s a fully integrated system.
Best 30 kW Diesel Generator
The Generac Protector is an extended run standby diesel generator for users that need a little extra power. It works great with only a slight increase in fuel consumption.
Find the Best Diesel Generator
Finding the best diesel generator isn’t an overly complicated task. However, it’s a back and forth between pricing, quality, and power output. Pinpointing the right one means listing your needs, including energy production and equipment, for a better experience.
It’s wonderful to have a machine that can power up your entire household. Budgets are a factor with every purchase, though, and you’ll probably have to opt for an alternative that provides electricity to a select few appliances.
Did this article help you make a pick? If it did, make sure to look at our other guides.