Natural and Sustainable

Well, generators are a nice place to start, but what is the right one?

A generators output is the best place to start looking, as well as the size of the generator. A generators output is measures by watts, a unit of power derived by multiplying electrical flow rate (amps) by electrical pressure (volts). But how much is enough?

To choose the right generator, you need to accurately estimate your power requirements. Here’s a sample of wattages required household appliances and tools. Start-up are momentary, they occur for a few seconds when a motor is switched. To find the power rating for your tools and appliance, check their manuals pr read the information stamped on the device itself.

Appliance:

Furnace: Start-up watts (1,400); Operating watts (700)

Well Pump (1/2 horsepower): Start-up (1,500); Operating watt (750)

Refrigerator: Start-up watts (1,500); Operating watts (800)

40-gallon water heater: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (3,000)

Freezer: Start-up watts (2,000); Operating watts (800)

VCR: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (50)

Radio: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (100)

TV/Computer: Start up watts (n/a); Operating watts (350)

Microwave: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (750)

Sump Pump: Start-up watts (1,400); Operating watts (750)

Washing Machine: Start-up watts (1,500); Operating watts (750)

Coffee Maker: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (850)

2-Slice Toaster: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (1,100)

Plug-in Heater: Start-up watts (n/a); Operating watts (1,500)

7 1/4-inch Circular Saw: Start-up watts (1,500); Operating watts (750)

Here are four generator safety tips to keep in mind when using a generator: Generators offer great convenience during power outages, but if not used properly they are and will become very dangerous when in use. Follow these guidelines for safe use:

• Store gasoline outside your home-away from living quarters and livestock barns.

• Always use a generator outside, never inside doors on in an attached garage. (People have died because of this in the past, never take the chance, no matter how convenient it is.)

• Protect a generator from the rain and snow and even rain while stored and during use.

• Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords sized to match the power load and the length of the cord.

*Natural and Sustainable Living Tip: Stop idling in your car.