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electrical:generator [2017/07/31 06:41] frater_secessus [Generators] |
electrical:generator [2021/12/30 16:06] frater_secessus [maintenance] |
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[[http:// | [[http:// | ||
- | A generator is a device that creates electricity from some other form of energy. | + | A generator is a device that creates electricity from some other form of energy. |
- | Note:In some areas solar setups and wind turbines are also called " | + | Note: in some areas solar setups and wind turbines are also called " |
- | The most common built-in generator is the Onan, now owned by Cummins. | + | The most common built-in generator |
- | The most common **high end** portable generators are the [[http:// | + | The most common **higher |
- | **Middling** brands include [[http:// | + | The **lower end** is dominated by [[http:// |
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- | The **lower end** is dominated by [[http:// | + | |
Some have reported success with Honda and Yamaha clones like [[http:// | Some have reported success with Honda and Yamaha clones like [[http:// | ||
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+ | ===== inverter generators ===== | ||
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+ | Inverter generators adjust engine output to meet power demand. | ||
===== etiquette ===== | ===== etiquette ===== | ||
It is common to leave generators quiet in times of darkness, and to not run them when close to other campers. | It is common to leave generators quiet in times of darkness, and to not run them when close to other campers. | ||
+ | ===== charging batteries ===== | ||
+ | Generators are not particularly well-suited to [[electrical: | ||
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+ | [Alternator charging + solar can do the same thing for about $950 less -- Secessus] | ||
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+ | If the generator is being used for some other purpose then by all means add on battery charging. | ||
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+ | Generators //are// well suited to charging [[electrical: | ||
===== efficient use ===== | ===== efficient use ===== | ||
Generators generally have a minimum amount of wattage they can produce. | Generators generally have a minimum amount of wattage they can produce. | ||
- | An example of an efficient use would be to start the generator in the morning when batteries are most depleted and use all your heavy loads as simultaneously | + | An example of an efficient use would be: |
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+ | - start the generator in the morning when batteries are most depleted and can take the most current | ||
+ | - use your heavy loads at the same time as possible, up to the practical limit of the generator | ||
+ | - shut the genny down after the battery bank reaches Vabs and let solar handle | ||
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+ | ===== specs ===== | ||
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+ | In general, generators with higher wattage ratings will be bigger, heavier, use more fuel, and cost more. They also tend to make most efficient use of fuel when fully loaded. | ||
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+ | Generators are often rated (and named) after their peak wattage output. | ||
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+ | Not all generators put out Pure Sine Wave (PSW) 120vac; | ||
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+ | THD (" | ||
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===== maintenance ===== | ===== maintenance ===== | ||
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+ | Generators typically require maintenance after initial break-in and every X hours thereafter. | ||
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+ | The frequency of oil changes make make it worthwhile to watch oil-changing videos for each model under consideration. | ||
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+ | ===== further reading ===== | ||
- | FIXME | + | * Chinese genny megathread: |