subject: Small Generators: Suitcase Type [print this page] Small Generators: Suitcase Type Small Generators: Suitcase Type
Suitcase generators are generally the size of a standard luggage and often come with a carrying handle hence the name "suitcase" was given. These electrical generators have compact sizes therefore they are really great for emergency situations or used during camping trips. They are comparatively quiet and majority of them are powered by a single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled engine. They weigh relatively light with few models available around the 30 pounds range. The common ones are those around 50 pounds and there are few that weigh up to 70 pounds. The size will depend on your intended usage and the latest models usually come with an inverter to provide a more stabilized power output.
In the United States, if you are living in a state that has adopted the California Air Resource Board (CARB) standard, the small generators you purchase should be CARB compliant. Even if the generator is CARB compliant, it can still excrete emissions and all generators are invented for outside use only. You can use the extension cord to immediately supply the power to your electrical devices during a blackout.
The generators should not be used in the house or in any closed area as they will emit gases like carbon monoxide, an odorless yet invisible gas that may cause death. Always remind yourself that the exhaust put off by any generators, including the suitcase generators is similar to that of your vehicle's exhaust fumes. Besides, as the generators are invented to generate electricity, any exposure to water can result in electrocution of anyone in the immediate vicinity or an electrical fire. Although they are handy during blackouts, do not place them in the house or out in the rain. Locate it at a garage area should be suffice but it is still better to seek a professional's help to prevent any unwanted occurrences.
The average run-time is approximately five hours but as it operates on the same fuel to your lawn mower, this is not a fairly primary issue. There are only few small generators that run on diesel in the suitcase style. Most of the diesel generators are not produced extensively as diesel is usually used on heavy duty equipment. Even with the presence of wheeled generators, the suitcase type is still the handier option during any situations as you can easily carry it in one hand.
