Which Generator to Buy? Small, Medium, or Large

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  • Опубликовано: 27 сен 2024
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Комментарии • 307

  • @TheToolmanTim
    @TheToolmanTim 2 года назад +15

    I bought a Generac RS8000E last year and set it up with a house outlet including an interlock to make sure I don't backfeed the grid. We opted to go with the house outlet because we have a well and if we lose power we lose water. I agree with your recommendations on non-oxy fuel. Additionally, I have a monthly calendar reminder to test run my generator. I did this after watching my neighbor struggle to start his generator that hadn't been used for a very long time.

  • @Matt10Lawrence
    @Matt10Lawrence 2 года назад +14

    I have a 10kw Champion dual fuel, with an outside hookup and UL interlock on the breaker panel and (2) 100 gallon LPG tanks. Powers my whole house. Based on load and shutting down when not needed, I'm good for weeks! Very happy with the setup.

    • @Off-Grid
      @Off-Grid 2 года назад

      Hooked it up the 500 gal tank on our Off-Grid home as a backup. Works well

    • @Painfulwhale360
      @Painfulwhale360 11 месяцев назад

      Do you have a well pump?

    • @wes326
      @wes326 Месяц назад

      The 145cc 3500-4000 luggage size dual fuel generators are the sweet spot for a lot of uses. Mine serves as house backup and runs a 15k btu camper air conditioner. Thanks for sharing.

  • @dabish2888
    @dabish2888 Год назад +4

    We have the mid-sized unit you featured. It's fantastic! It starts quickly every time, has the dual fuel option, is very quiet, has clean power (it has a pure sine wave inverter) and other great features. I use it for our fifth wheel and for emergency power for our house. For the latter situation, we use a transfer switch and our RV power cable (with a custom 50A plug in the switch input). Although we can't run the house AC, the dryer, or any other 240VAC device, we can run everything else, usually in ECO mode (this really saves fuel and the gen set is even more quiet in this mode). Of course, it helps that our home has a gas range, water heater and heater.
    Champion products have a 3-year warranty and great customer service. I had a question or two when I bought ours, and they were prompt, courteous and professional. I know this sounds like a commercial, but I get nothing from saying all this. I just really like the company and their products. We looked at Honda, Yamaha and others but saw that we got more value with Champion. I do not regret the move at all. There are great units out there, but as the gentleman in the video suggested, buy at the right time of year. We live in Florida, and hurricane season is not usually the best time to buy. Buy off-season for the best availability and cost.

  • @deandrepenn9686
    @deandrepenn9686 2 месяца назад +1

    I just watched 6 videos prior to finding this video. Thank you so much for taking time to make it and explain everything. Especially the the new tri fuel generator. Your not just getting likes, but helping local TX ppl survive. Thank you again.

  • @jkbrown5496
    @jkbrown5496 2 года назад +9

    Not mentioned is the inverter types (two on the table) can run quieter and more fuel efficiently at low loads on eco mode since the AC output is created by the inverter not directly from the engine speed. The larger generators have to maintain speed to keep the frequency and voltage at the right levels. They are more fuel efficient a near full running load.
    Also, if you get a generator, consider what cords you need/want. A contractor would have lots of extension cords about, but not everyone does. And you'll need cords with the proper plugs to use the round high amp receptacles.

  • @rojerww
    @rojerww 2 года назад +19

    Thanks for the reminder to run my generator occasionally - I haven't done that in a while.
    One thing you failed to touch on is noise levels.
    I have a large dual fuel champion and a Honda.
    The Honda Inverter is SOOOO much quieter then the Champion - which seems to run at balls to the wall full time - and the Honda has the switch to run at low RPM until a higher demand requires more umph.
    But overall a good quick introduction for those of us somewhat new to the need for off-grid power.

    • @cedricpomerleau5586
      @cedricpomerleau5586 2 года назад +3

      If it doesn’t have an inverter, it needs to run at 3600RPM* which correspond to 60Hz, no matter the load, that’s why they’re always noisy.
      *They can be 1800RPM too if there’s a second set of poles. But again it will need to run at a stable 1800RPM.

    • @HutchMountain
      @HutchMountain 2 года назад +6

      As Cédric said, if it is an "inverter" style gen it will be quieter & run at variable RPM rather than the screaming Champion gens you are used to seeing. The Champion 2500 & 3500 are both inverters, but the big 10k Matt showed is a conventional 3600 RPM screamer. Generally speaking inverter gens=quiet & fuel efficient, conventional 3600 RPM=loud & horrible fuel efficiency.
      The only caution we have is that Champion uses a much smaller engine & kind of cheats the numbers. IE their "2500 watt" generator has a tiny 79cc engine. The Honda 2200 has a larger 121cc engine. At the end of the day, the Champion will not produce the power it claims & the Honda will. At Hutch Mountain this is what we do & we test these generators extensively.
      Yes rojer, Honda's at the best for many reason!!

    • @markseamans4682
      @markseamans4682 2 года назад

      @@HutchMountain My Champion 2500 is rated at 1750 Watts. I ran it in the mountains around a month ago topping off my RV battery system (LiFePO4 bank). It was delivering a solid 1700 watts. With the altitude, I figured it was spot on.

    • @KevinSmith-ys3mh
      @KevinSmith-ys3mh 2 года назад

      My son has a Large contractor style Honda 5500 watt rated generator, (its probably 20 yrs old at this time) non-inverter type that has a quiet idle switch. Works great to cut fuel use & noise if your loads are intermittant and not very frequency sensitive - takes 1 to 2 seconds to come up to full 3600rpm speed. Love the small Honda engines for reliability (when serviced properly, they arent B&S or similar lawnmower types) I can see the lineage from the motorcycles I used to work on "back in tha day" every time I get to revive one (because owner manual was tossed or never read!). Considering the cost of large house capable full sine converter systems- I would prefer to build a carefully considered emergency power panel system, with a good (well filtered, like my mil surplus Topaz transformer) conventional generator for high power loads, and for sensitive electronics a seperate circuit with a full sine inverter and DC batterry bank bulk charged with a few used solar panels (why? the engine + fuel are the least reliable components) and maintained by a plugin smart charger. There is a lot of cross-over applications between modern RV power systems and home back-up power thats possible, without going full off-grid $$$$crazy! If you can hook into your RV or boat power, you can extend storage and run times further.

  • @BigRonRN18
    @BigRonRN18 2 года назад +2

    I have a Champion dual-fuel generator purchased from Sam’s Club that I purchased primarily for my RV. I had a problem with a floating neutral fault with my trailer. I talked with tech support at Champion and they walked me through the process of bonding neutral to ground internally. When I power my RV, I can plug into a quick-connect propane port to power generator. I DID change out the main propane regulator to handle higher BTU flow.

    • @markseamans4682
      @markseamans4682 2 года назад

      There is a plug you can make/buy that joins the ground to the neutral leg in the 110V outlet.

  • @txkent
    @txkent 2 года назад +5

    Great video! I actually just bought 2 Champion generators in the past 3 weeks, one 2k watt inverter, and then I got an amazing deal on a 9375 dual fuel portable. I live just north of Austin and am preparing for another power disaster like we had in February.

    • @buildshow
      @buildshow  2 года назад +5

      Great move! I suspect they will be hard to find once we get the first cold snap.

    • @andrewkennedy9704
      @andrewkennedy9704 2 года назад +5

      @@buildshow best time to panic buy is when there's no panic.

    • @nixaeagle141
      @nixaeagle141 2 года назад

      @@buildshow good thing Bucces has non ethanol no one else within 2-3 hours to dfw carries it .

  • @accwowunu4245
    @accwowunu4245 Год назад +54

    *100% best **Generater.Systems** I have used. A test for hurricane prep here in Louisiana: three AC units, 5000, 5000 & 8000, 3 fridges, 2 device power setups, 4 flat screens....AND I had 40% of the power meter to spare.*

  • @ocko8011
    @ocko8011 2 года назад +5

    A generator is great toward maintaining your piece of mind in many situations. From bad weather, recreation and on job sites, having a good generator is an absolutely essential.
    Also if you can't get a generator yourself, make friends with your neighbors that do.

  • @ssoffshore5111
    @ssoffshore5111 2 года назад +7

    Three things Matt really didn't touch on, which I have found to be VERY important are noise, fuel consumption, and connection. I live in an area which is somewhat prone to long outages (3-10 days typically) due to major storms. Early on I bought a 7500 watt generator so I could easily run my entire house off it. We typically only use around that same 7500 watts over the course of a full day, but figured it would be nice to have the extra capacity. Bad move on my part! Big generators (other than high end diesels) also mean big noise and big fuel consumption! Even with the windows closed and the generator 75' from the house, it's loud. Certainly not ideal for running all night, especially in a residential area. The fuel cost to run this thing for extended periods is also pricy and requires a large supply to keep on hand. Keeping 50+ gal of gas or propane on hand is a PITA, but if you don't have it, you may very well find gas stations without power themselves, but even more likely... out of fuel themselves.
    Lastly, make sure you have an interlock or a transfer switch installed on your house if you're using it for household back-up power. They can be connected without either, but not wise to do so, especially if you don't know what you're doing!
    I'm adding a hybrid solar system this spring to replace the dependence on the grid and loud gas guzzling generator. I will sell or lend out my 7500W generator to someone in need during the outage and will be replacing it with a much smaller (quiet) generator, just to have on hand and to recharge batteries in a pinch.

    • @ssoffshore5111
      @ssoffshore5111 2 года назад +3

      Another thing he didn't touch on is the cleanness of the power output. Inverter generators not only use less fuel and are typically quieter, but also will supply power which is much safer for sensitive electronics (computers, TV's, etc). They are more expensive, but worth the extra money IMO!

    • @ssoffshore5111
      @ssoffshore5111 2 года назад +2

      @@matt00755 Thanks Matt. I'm installing a 6-8KW solar system with a hybrid inverter and 10-15 KW of batteries. This should cover us for at least a few cloudy days in a pinch and having a small gas generator on hand to recharge the batteries through the inverter will cover us if we need it. I'm doing this to be less dependent on the grid, in effort to be a little more 'green', etc. I'll do it all myself, but the payback will still likely take a long time at our relatively low consumption. But the peace of mind and not having to listen to or pay for the gas generator will be a big plus when SHTF!

    • @ssoffshore5111
      @ssoffshore5111 2 года назад

      @@matt00755 I hear you about spreading out baskets (I've done the same with heating as well). And good suggestion with daylight testing, will do. I'd like to do an even larger battery system, but they aren't exactly cost effective, hopefully price comes down in the not to distant future. I'm over-sizing the panels to not only prepare for future potential demand needs, but also assist on less than sunny days. Looking forward to the project, taking a couple of trees down next month to prep. ;)

  • @woohunter1
    @woohunter1 2 года назад +3

    I have a generator interlock mechanism in my main panel, that way I can pick and choose which circuits I want to run. I have a very clearly labeled panel, put a green dot next to the circuits that have to be on.

  • @markseamans4682
    @markseamans4682 2 года назад +2

    Matt, good video. I agree with the MicroAir, I use that exact same 2500w Champion with my Travel Trailer using the MicroAir. The MicroAir also makes the compressor noise quieter. I also think inverter (pure sinewave) vs normal (modified sinewave) discussion should be addressed. With todays electronics integrated into appliances and such it's a good idea to run an inverter model. This all being said, I picked up a champion yesterday from a sale at Tractor Supply! God Bless Texas!

  • @robertscherer6343
    @robertscherer6343 Год назад +1

    I have two Champion 2500 watt inverters that I run on propane only and I parallel them to run my Travel trailer. works great

  • @jwsystems
    @jwsystems 2 года назад +4

    I have made a bunch of money repairing generators that are not maintained properly in my shop. Since generators can be life critical machine, a maintained generator is very important. Ethanol free gas is number one best thing you can do as Matt Risinger pointed out. Second, ALWAYS run the carb dry every time you run it and if you don't plan on running it for 3-6months, drain the fuel tank. Fuel tanks are vented, which can allow water condensate to build up. Since water is heavier than gasoline, the carb will fill full of water which causes corrosion in the carb/fuel tank and the engine will run poorly - if it runs at all. Check the oil, all small engines can use a little bit a oil - over a two day of constant running it can use 1/3 of quart of oil depending on the wear of the engine. Most quality generators have a low oil sensor, so if it just quits running, check the oil as well as the gasoline. Please store generator inside out of the weather. The consumer generators are not designed for long term outdoor storage. Keep a quart of 10w-30 oil on the shelf just in case you need to add some. I have had a few cheaper generators come into the shop with blown engines because the owner ran them out of oil. Lastly, if it is a battery started generator, find out if the generator self charges the battery and if your not going to use it for 3-6months, put the battery on a quality battery maintainer, that way it starts every time. Thanks for the great video Matt!

    • @KevinSmith-ys3mh
      @KevinSmith-ys3mh 2 года назад +1

      Completely agree with all your comments, you know your genny's for sure! I would only amplify your last sentence- since most generators are intermittantly used devices (wall power is MUCH cheaper/convenient, at $4 gallon gas & $4 quart oil, filters, tuning, cleaning etc) the starting LA battery is the weak link, sulfation WILL happen if not actively charged -especially fast in hot climates like Arizona! My dad gets 3yrs life on a battery in Tucson, I get 8+yrs in Tacoma WA. I went with Deltran Battery Tender maintainers for any place that I can run an extension cord, a small 5 watt solar panel wherever that didnt work. So long as you dont screwup and deep-cycle the battery you should have fast reliable starts, and most mid to large gennys dont have a backup pull start, so.....😕

    • @jolkraeremeark6949
      @jolkraeremeark6949 Год назад

      Any opinion on Champion dual fuel inverter generators?

    • @philliphall5198
      @philliphall5198 2 месяца назад

      We fix them and they don’t listen 😢😢
      They just don’t care until they need it and then expect me to work day and night for a week 😮

  • @GregsWorkshopOregon
    @GregsWorkshopOregon 2 года назад

    I have that Champion Dual Fuel 3400 for my RV, it runs great and is nice and quiet. I also have a “normal” 8kw generator with a tri-fuel conversion kit for the house, it’s louder but puts out much more power. I have a conversion plug to hook the 3400 up to my transfer switch, it won’t run as much of the house but will keep the furnace running overnight and not make so much noise.

  • @angelaa3312
    @angelaa3312 Год назад

    Best video I’ve found to help me figure out what we need. And that Champion website tip is great for figuring out our wattage requirements. Thank you!

  • @roBLINDhood
    @roBLINDhood 2 года назад +19

    I’d be interested in seeing you discuss the new crop of solar/battery “generators”.

    • @MandoFettOG
      @MandoFettOG 2 года назад +1

      It annoys me that they call them generators.. haha.

    • @markseamans4682
      @markseamans4682 2 года назад

      @@MandoFettOG I agree. Solar is great, but if it is a crappy day outside, you need a decent generator or overkill on the solar with good sized battery bank.

    • @Off-Grid
      @Off-Grid 2 года назад

      I'm using a champion dual fuel on our Off-Grid solar home.

  • @peterduthie1806
    @peterduthie1806 2 года назад +1

    In your video you said the BBQ size propane tanks hold 25 Lbs. Actually that size tank is designed to hold 20 Lbs and most exchange tanks only come filled with 15 Lbs.
    Also while your suggestion to run only run ethanol free fuel is good if the generator is not going to be run regularly you will be better off emptying the fuel tank completely because over time moisture will accumulate in the tank and if you have a metal tank it will rust and the rust particles can plug the carburetor's jets.
    I use a dual fuel Champion and keep enough propane on hand to run it for up to twenty hours so if it is a short term power outage after power is restored I don't have to drain the carb and the fuel tank to prevent fuel system problems.

  • @8894larry
    @8894larry 2 года назад +3

    Pretty good presentation Matt about Champion generators. Just a few mentions. At a altitude above a 1000 FT MSL you have to derate the output by 3-1/2%. Also when you tie it into your house panel you should disconnect the neutral to ground inside the generator. It's located behind the the round yellow cover under the handle on the larger models. Reason why you ask? The main panel already has the neutral to ground connection and you only want this once. If not done, you can get objectionable currents. Some generator manufactures have a tag on the exterior of the generator stating the neutral to ground connection on their generator. Champion's manual mentions this connection, but does not explain the reason why. Good day!

    • @KevinSmith-ys3mh
      @KevinSmith-ys3mh 2 года назад

      Excellent points, they should make it clearer and easier to do. Also remember to ground the generator frame whenever possible.

    • @8894larry
      @8894larry 2 года назад

      @@KevinSmith-ys3mh Better look at Article 250.34 of the 2020 NEC!

  • @TJK50014
    @TJK50014 2 года назад +4

    Really thinking about a nat gas gen. Something that doesn't require buying tanks of gas, and natural gas service is pretty reliable during a freeze/hurricane.

    • @shenmisheshou7002
      @shenmisheshou7002 Год назад +1

      I think it depends on the generator size. Even a mid size generator will require a 3/4 inch pipe if it is more than a few feet away from the gas meter. Also, if you are going to put it on the same pipe as a gas furnace, you are not going to get enough gas. If you have a place where you can tap into a 3/4th pipe, then yeah, dual fuel is a good option but one should check the gas delivery requirement.

  • @bruce-le-smith
    @bruce-le-smith 2 года назад +1

    bruh, this is the Build show intro I subscribed for. seen these generators in my local stores, thanks for the demo

    • @robertthompson3447
      @robertthompson3447 2 года назад

      Matt's videos on generators is why I subscribed more than a year ago.

  • @mariobueno3368
    @mariobueno3368 2 года назад +1

    Thanks Matt for all your content. You sure pack a lot of very useful information for us mere mortals!

  • @ChristianBehnke
    @ChristianBehnke 2 года назад +2

    Thanks Matt, I'll never un-see you with a mullet.

    • @buildshow
      @buildshow  2 года назад +2

      Ha! More fun intros?

  • @raymondgarafano8604
    @raymondgarafano8604 Год назад +1

    Champion has GREAT customer service.

  • @sunbeam8866
    @sunbeam8866 2 года назад

    My 11" X 16" bedroom's window AC is 5000 btu, rated at 515 watts. Don't know the starting watts. I'm in Virginia and till now, I've been lucky. My extended outages have been in the fall, and I didn't need heat or AC - just the fridge & (alternately) the microwave, with a couple CF lights, a fan and the TV. running a 2000 watt (contniuos) generator.
    This also includes unplugging the fridge and shutting down the generator overnight to save fuel. Before I put it away, I close the fuel-valve and run the generator to get the gas out of the carb. So far, no major issues restarting.

  • @condor5635
    @condor5635 Год назад +1

    Great video. I don’t agree with the ethanol free advice. I’ve had my generator for 10 years and all I do is run it dry - completely dry none in the tank. This also means draining the carburetor bowl as well. Run some low pressure air into the gas tank with a towel over the fuel hole and the fuel bowl bolt removed and that will blow out any residual gas. I run it every 4-6 months and it starts on the first pull every time Just some first hand experience which points me to not needing ethanol, free fuel, or running it every month. Great overview video of the champion products.
    I was a little confused on the 120 V (?) plug on the large generator (on the far left ) Typically there’s a 230 V 30 amp option (L14-30R) and a 240 V 50 amp option (14-50R) along with 120 duplex outlets.

  • @alonzosmith6189
    @alonzosmith6189 2 года назад

    I loved my Champion generator. Living in NJ, my house was 100% electric. Was able to have everything in the house online except my hot water tank.

  • @Moocowthegreat
    @Moocowthegreat Год назад +1

    Me watching this whole video knowing in the back of my mind that I can’t even afford a battery

  • @ThomasMarcotte-jt9od
    @ThomasMarcotte-jt9od Месяц назад

    Champion is a good brand. I have one of the little guys and love it.

  • @UnlikelyToRemember
    @UnlikelyToRemember 2 года назад +1

    On soft-start: A capacitor is basically a temporary store of electrical charge. Your generator (or city power) charges up the capacitor and then when your device (eg your A/C) starts, the needed surge current is supplied by the capacitor dumping its energy back out.

    • @HutchMountain
      @HutchMountain 2 года назад

      Well kind of... The EasyStart that Matt purchased from us at Hutch Mountain actually reduces the amount of power sent to the compressor, rather than what you might think a traditional capacitor does by storing energy & slamming the compressor with power. It slowly introduces power (in a very complicated way) & within milliseconds the compressor is up & running. It is better for the compressor & uses between 50-70% energy.
      Long story, short, it makes it much easier for your air conditioner to start on a generator.
      Happy to answer any questions or help if you have any Q's,
      -Your Friends at Hutch Mountain. :)

    • @PartTimeYooper
      @PartTimeYooper 2 года назад

      @@HutchMountain can you provide a link to the product?

  • @jshblk
    @jshblk 2 года назад +12

    Great intro!

    • @buildshow
      @buildshow  2 года назад +3

      Took a page from Demo Ranch!

    • @rigo6156
      @rigo6156 2 года назад +2

      He rocks out with his caulk out.

  • @whattheschmidt
    @whattheschmidt 2 года назад +7

    Those generators are pretty neat, had no idea they had that many features now. I am in the electric vehicle game and going to hold out for an EV with 240V output and have that as backup - enough power for my house for 1-2 weeks in an electric vehicles battery capacity, way more than enough. Just need the ability from more and more EVs!

    • @jimb9283
      @jimb9283 2 года назад

      I see fuel cells as the quicker option for that.

    • @whattheschmidt
      @whattheschmidt 2 года назад +1

      @@jimb9283 What do you mean quicker option? A few EVs come out next year with 240V output.

  • @JG-gw3up
    @JG-gw3up Год назад

    When using a non-inverter generator, you need to understand that the typical non-inverter generator puts out a total harmonic distortion (THD) in the 10-25% range. Conversely, inverter generators typically put out less than 3% THD. So, if want to run a high efficency (read computer driven) furnace, tankless hot water heater, smart TV, computer, or UPS, 10-25% THD from a non-inverter generator can reak havoc and sometimes even damage the computer controls of your high efficency furnace or computer driven devices. So, if you want to run sensitive electronics, be sure to get an inverter-generator.

  • @winstonsmiths2449
    @winstonsmiths2449 Год назад

    My usage is for emergencies and for partial house power source. I expect to not run my electrical devices as if I were connected to the grid. Fridge/freezer, portable ac unit, fans, microwave, solar battery charging.

  • @nephtaliestrada569
    @nephtaliestrada569 2 года назад

    The capacitor ur talking is called a hard start kit. They make them for anything that has a refrigerant compressor from a refrigerator, deep freezer, mini splits and regular size ac unit for home and RV.

    • @cfmeeks
      @cfmeeks 2 года назад

      No sir, the Micro Air is a soft start kit. Much more sophisticated than a hard start kit and much more effective at reducing start-up load on the generator - hence the $300 price tag.

  • @jaymin2189
    @jaymin2189 2 года назад +6

    Matt, why didn’t you go with a solar + battery storage for your home?

    • @jaxturner7288
      @jaxturner7288 2 года назад +3

      Same reasons most people don’t.

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 2 года назад +1

      @@jaxturner7288, Junk ! Just my opinion. Some people love it, not me.

    • @scottburton414
      @scottburton414 2 года назад +3

      I was wondering the same thing. Matt seems to have the latest and greatest technology behind every system in his house. Having a gas/propane/natural gas generator, with all the maintenance/noise etc. seems a bit old school.

    • @jaxturner7288
      @jaxturner7288 2 года назад +2

      @@augustreil component quality, long term durability and the inability for repair are definitely valid concerns for potential solar customers.
      Besides the whole situation of solar power being environmentally dependent the rate at which solar components/batteries become outdated/obsolete and automatically continuously reduce their efficiency as they age and will regularly require replacement weather you are using the system or not.
      Obviously for a back up power supply, solar gathered into battery cells is the absolute worst way to go.
      Collecting power from the sun as of now is to slow while storing a useful amount of power in even the very best currently available type of batteries is extremely expensive over the long term.
      A couple thousand dollars worth of generator + fuel will give your family all the power it needs to get through any natural disaster , it will not get blown away or broken by hail and it will not cost you $1000 a year for maintenance even when it isn’t used at all.
      In the right locations solar currently can be worth the cost but for now only when it’s used to directly and almost immediately power something needing a small amount of power in a remote location and an ideal geographic area.
      To slowly gather solar energy in long term power storage (bank of batteries) that’s intended for future yet sporadic use though…. No way. 👎

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 2 года назад +1

      @@jaxturner7288, Agree, thanks.

  • @gregmadrid3458
    @gregmadrid3458 2 года назад

    I just picked up the Tri-Fuel in this video. For those wondering, the decibel level running both Nat.Gas or Propane is 76 Decibals, unloaded.

  • @stephanieonlife3657
    @stephanieonlife3657 2 года назад

    I got a charge out of your video tonight. Thanks and I wasn't shocked..Keep up the great work .

  • @marilynjernigan4673
    @marilynjernigan4673 Год назад

    Works great for the camper and no more power outages at the house

  • @mcintosh.daughter
    @mcintosh.daughter 2 года назад

    Great into brother! Thanks for the laugh. And great content that just keeps becoming more relevant. Outages will probably increase, and gasoline availability will waiver. So consider a duel fuel and keep a tank of propane on hand.

  • @stuartrinker
    @stuartrinker 2 года назад +3

    Haha! We literally just started our new generator up 20 minutes ago.

    • @robertthompson3447
      @robertthompson3447 2 года назад

      Used mine for the first time, in more than a year, last week. Ethanol free gasoline in it was still good; started on the second pull.

  • @NorthCountryOutdoors522
    @NorthCountryOutdoors522 6 месяцев назад

    I want one that is big enough to run the furnace and stove in our house during an outage but small and light enough to load in a truck and take to the job site.what size should I get?

  • @83presidente
    @83presidente 2 года назад

    Love the "mas o menos!" I know you have spent some time on-site with the amigos!

  • @DeDraconis
    @DeDraconis 2 года назад +3

    Okay Matt.
    Guns & Roses, Poison, or Spinal Tap?

  • @billboy7390
    @billboy7390 2 года назад

    I live in Arizona and we just don’t have the same level of emergency like you, even being in the mountains and snow, and I’m 61 and never lost power longer than 6 hours, I’ll stick with solar and battery but my wife has a small 16’ camper and she bought a 2000 watt inverter but has rarely really needs it but I like her having it but I think we need to look into dual fuel.

  • @chipholland9
    @chipholland9 2 года назад +1

    Nice 80's montage!

  • @scorpio6587
    @scorpio6587 2 года назад

    Fantastic opening sequence.

  • @roccosperanza
    @roccosperanza 2 года назад +1

    I'm really surprised you didn't go with Solar and Battery Storage.

  • @bryanhatch6688
    @bryanhatch6688 2 года назад

    You can't beat a Champion. I'm going to pick one up today

  • @pin65371
    @pin65371 2 года назад +1

    You should reach out to Ford and see if they will let you test the new Lightning for a couple days. They are claiming they will power a full crew for a couple days. I'm sure your channel is big enough that they would actually consider it.

  • @zaaz1471
    @zaaz1471 2 года назад

    Great reviews of portable generators -- we went the 'whole house' generac version. When we moved to northwest connecticut, we thought we'd need it frequently.. but of course, not so much. :) if we didn't have it we'd have been without power for weeks at a time lol.

  • @ccagrad2002
    @ccagrad2002 9 месяцев назад

    Thank you, very informative

  • @SnakeAndTurtleQigong
    @SnakeAndTurtleQigong Год назад

    Thanks so much

  • @robertdean9392
    @robertdean9392 2 года назад

    Matt It would be nice if you did a video on whole home stand by generator that you would recommend. Hope you and the family had a good THANKSGIVING. See you on the next video

    • @DAllman1
      @DAllman1 2 года назад +1

      I think he did one a year or so ago. Check the archives 🍻

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 2 года назад

      Get at least 3-4 quotes from generator companies and set them up with a large propane tank that's automatic, you'll never be happier !

  • @ccagrad2002
    @ccagrad2002 9 месяцев назад

    Thanks!

  • @jayrpyne7067
    @jayrpyne7067 Год назад

    Thank you. Very informative. Better than most. Buying two of the ones that do less but cover the main needs have been suggested. That way you cover the NEEDS with a backup unit and have choice of the air-conditioning which maybe wanted but not needed in a REAL CATASTROPHE. As in the case of the small unit ... easier to carry. Does that make any sense? Namaste. Jay

  • @N8904V
    @N8904V 2 года назад

    There is a lot to explain, the two inverter generators are nice for Electronics (pure sine wave) the larger generator doesn't have inverter technology.

  • @Tenspound
    @Tenspound 2 года назад +1

    Noice Video like the intro. Fun times!

  • @lofiDigitalArt2
    @lofiDigitalArt2 Год назад

    I like to know how are able use it in winter when your power goes out the box says keep out of cold and keep away from Moist

  • @PhotonHerald
    @PhotonHerald 2 года назад +1

    For a minute I'm like "A collab with Cleetus McFarland?"

  • @Peppermint1
    @Peppermint1 Год назад

    I bought a new 2000W Champion Inverter. I'm an engineer and I had a look inside (removed the covers). The unit has a very strong chemical smell inside. What are the working conditions at the factory ? Are the workers exposed to these chemicals 8 hours a day ? These workers are women as well. What are the chemicals used inside these generators ?

  • @georgegould667
    @georgegould667 3 месяца назад

    I’m looking for something close to a 5 kw inverter , Tri fuel for sale .

  • @MtyMous
    @MtyMous 2 года назад

    Mossy Minos. Lol
    Good video covering the ranges and benefits

  • @zambato9965
    @zambato9965 2 года назад

    Off topic… but what are your thoughts on steel framing?

  • @mikekinnear3104
    @mikekinnear3104 2 года назад

    Just thought I'd mention my 3200 watt Champion generator has a carburetor bowl drain to get rid of the excess fuel before you store it. Just saying.

  • @joe7272
    @joe7272 2 года назад +1

    fun fact: the only difference between the natural gas and propane fuel options is having tuning for the individual gasses energy density. There is also the pressure difference. Natural gas for houses is at 1/2 a psi. Propane tanks are much higher I think around 20?

    • @ewicky
      @ewicky 2 года назад +2

      Propane appliances run on regulated pressure, not tank pressure. Tank pressure varies wildly with tank temperature, but can be much higher than 20psi.
      Regulated pressure for propane appliances is 12 inches of water column, I believe. Regulated natural gas for residential appliances is typically 6 inches of water column, as well as being less dense.
      But ya, neither fuel needs to be carbureted or injected like gasoline because it's already gaseous.

  • @Bob_Lob_Law
    @Bob_Lob_Law 2 года назад +1

    7:00 A quick word on fuel usage.
    If you want to maximize efficiency, run the generator near full load.
    Generators run constant rpm, and this requires fuel. You will achieve better fuel efficiency with higher load because more of your fuel will be used to generate power compared to the amount required to maintain the RPM.

    • @Bob_Lob_Law
      @Bob_Lob_Law 2 года назад +1

      @@augustreil Primarily use the smallest generator you can. And don't run a generator just to charge your phone or something stupid like that.

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 2 года назад

      @@Bob_Lob_Law, I have a 3 family house and run a 10K I'm not going to run anything smaller so that it gets strained the whole time it's running. Doesn't make sense.

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 2 года назад

      @@Bob_Lob_Law, And I've never heard of running an undersized generator from anyone. Even Matt says not to run them at full load. You're dead wrong on this one, all that will do is wear it out quick and NOT save any fuel.

    • @Bob_Lob_Law
      @Bob_Lob_Law 2 года назад +1

      @@augustreil Honestly, I don't care what your situation is, and I'm not looking to solve any of your problems.
      I'm just merely handing out the a correction regarding load vs fuel efficiency.

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 2 года назад

      @@Bob_Lob_Law, But you're way wrong on running the smallest generator so that it runs at full load all the time. You shouldn't be telling people that, that's all I'm saying.

  • @paulnewman2778
    @paulnewman2778 2 года назад

    Hey Matt, what is going on with the build network? Like the channel especially Steve’s view in design. Happy holidays

  • @L.Scott_Music
    @L.Scott_Music 2 года назад

    How easy or difficult is it to switch between fuels?

  • @hanksnowden5288
    @hanksnowden5288 2 года назад

    More intros like this Matt!

  • @celyl
    @celyl 2 года назад

    are they electric start accessible remotely by wifi?

  • @tedsmith5058
    @tedsmith5058 2 года назад

    Hello from the great state of Michigan

  • @philliphall5198
    @philliphall5198 2 месяца назад

    Any one beats nothing and everyone needs one for sure now folks

  • @rppiii6737
    @rppiii6737 2 года назад

    Why not a port to use an electric drill to start the smaller generator. Most everyone had a drill around and it would be nice to be able to start a smaller generator without pulling a muscle.

  • @alwaysrockn2009
    @alwaysrockn2009 8 месяцев назад

    Where does it tell you if it’s a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?

    • @pinkiepie1656
      @pinkiepie1656 24 дня назад

      If it's an 'inverter generator'. Those all seem to be pure sine. Whereas, open frame generators generally aren't pure.

  • @benjoe3868
    @benjoe3868 10 месяцев назад

    How long can 5kvc run 2 PS4 ?

  • @nixaeagle141
    @nixaeagle141 2 года назад

    What’s a transfer switch run installed ? Or should your power Co be adding one at no charge ??

    • @robertthompson3447
      @robertthompson3447 2 года назад

      Anything after the meter is the responsibility of the home owner. You will need a licensed electrician.

  • @jonathanDIYs
    @jonathanDIYs 2 года назад

    Will you be installing a permanent generator for your new home? I remember watching a video of yours from a few years back where you had a champion permanently installed standby generator. Didn't hear you mention anything about it in this video. What's your take on those at this point?

  • @holybanana2376
    @holybanana2376 2 года назад

    love the intro

  • @mrsleannejh
    @mrsleannejh Год назад

    You sold me buying the medium one then all the sudden when he said to run it for 10 minutes every month. I am now shying away wondering if there’s any other option because I am not so good with things like that. Is there any type of generator that requires what all maintenance?

    • @westhavenor9513
      @westhavenor9513 8 месяцев назад

      I have the middle one and only use it with propane. You don't to exercise it in that case because there is no gasoline to go bad and gel inside it. But I start it every few months just for peace of mind.

  • @sgomez3047
    @sgomez3047 2 года назад

    You lost me at :47 Matt! I need a non bias eval!

  • @jessgalloway7678
    @jessgalloway7678 2 года назад +1

    You really should have addressed the issue of an inverter generator versus the traditional portable generator. This is important as it relates to clean power, fuel consumption and noise.

  • @nordyfamily
    @nordyfamily 2 года назад

    What about solar?

  • @johnr9969
    @johnr9969 2 года назад

    If one has a CME etc most of the dig electronics will be fried so won't work- since most new generators all have computer base controls etc - might end up not working at all.

  • @markbuildstx
    @markbuildstx 2 года назад

    Bought a 6800 Dual Fuel Champion about a month ago. Also prepping for Texas snow freeze or other natural disaster. I’m just curious about what cords I need. Do I need the 30amp in order to plug into a 110?

    • @markseamans4682
      @markseamans4682 2 года назад +1

      I would suggest you grab a local friend that knows a good bit on the topic. It's pretty easy, but with the fact you are asking this question suggests you are uncertain of the concepts and we really don't want you to fry something, or worse, get killed or kill a lineman. Otherwise, research, learn, execute.

    • @markbuildstx
      @markbuildstx 2 года назад

      @@markseamans4682 lol. How would I hurt a lineman? You must be one to randomly throw that out there. And me asking is me researching, learning so I can execute.

    • @markseamans4682
      @markseamans4682 2 года назад +1

      @@markbuildstx Some will back feed an outlet in their house without killing the main. This will send the generators voltage to the main feed. Thus, when the utility is working on fixing the outage, they are unaware voltage is coming from the opposite direction. Randomly? Nope. I'm in IT guy that has lots of good real world experience. This is why most city electrical codes ensure there is a transfer switch or an interlock to prevent this.

  • @ApartmentPrepping
    @ApartmentPrepping Год назад

    Which one can I charge an EV with?

  • @morrisassociatesllc
    @morrisassociatesllc 2 года назад

    Matt, love your videos. I couldn’t find your email or I would have sent this in an email. You might want to reconsider your recommendations of Rheem heat pump water heaters. I just had an 80 gal. Installed in my basement. It’s loud and annoying. I’ve spent 2 days so far trying to get in touch with Rheem to get this looked at under warranty. So far I’ve been put on hold for 4 hours and have yet to get to talk to anyone about the issue. Emailed them and have yet to get a response. Their customer service is terrible.

  • @1d1hamby
    @1d1hamby 2 года назад

    Interesting

  • @ridgerunner7980
    @ridgerunner7980 2 года назад

    go big !

  • @lofiDigitalArt2
    @lofiDigitalArt2 Год назад

    I have a 4500 if I need 10k to run my house why not buy another 4500 and hook both together to run for your house instead buying a gen that's to freaking heavy

  • @geo1667
    @geo1667 2 месяца назад

    Here bc of Beryl 😅

  • @jaygerke6746
    @jaygerke6746 2 года назад +2

    and nice hair!

  • @rigo6156
    @rigo6156 2 года назад +3

    Massi meh-knows. 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

  • @DrewJames
    @DrewJames 2 года назад

    How is there not more comments on the hair? Hilarious.

  • @stephenconnell
    @stephenconnell 2 года назад

    This video has generated much .comment but what about a dedicated generator for the whole house.?

  • @JARR300
    @JARR300 2 года назад

    I heard champion brand make noisy generators. Can anyone confirm?

  • @marktye322
    @marktye322 2 года назад +1

    Matt, propane tanks should never be transported in an enclosed vehicle like your wife’s Suburban. Propane is heavier than air and the slightest leak could could the vapor to pool in the lowest area of the vehicle. A door release solenoid could cause a spark and ignite the vapor resulting in a violent explosion. While this is not a common occurrence, it has happened with devastating results. Better safe than sorry. Best you handle the refill mission with your pickup truck. Also the newest Honda portable gas generators have a built in Carbon Monoxide detector that turns off the generator if it senses a build up of the poisonous gas. Other generator manufacturers should consider following suit.

    • @Pk3_Garage
      @Pk3_Garage 2 года назад

      As long as you have it secured and in the upright position, you will be fine.

    • @marktye322
      @marktye322 2 года назад

      @@Pk3_Garage I wish that were the case. A leak is a leak and the vapor will seek the lowest level and pool there. While this scenario is very very rare, it’s always best to transport any size propane tank in an open vehicle like a pickup truck. Better safe than sorry.

    • @Pk3_Garage
      @Pk3_Garage 2 года назад +1

      I get your point, but your forgetting that most people don't own a pickup truck. We have two 20lbs propane tanks that I get filled. I transport them in our minivan. I'm only driving for about 10 min. though. Also, I bought ours new, so I know the condition of them. Owners have to make sure the tanks are not past the certification date too.

  • @johnalexander2349
    @johnalexander2349 2 года назад +1

    Generator crash course: Honda EU series. End of course. Sincerely, someone cursed to live in the third world (hundreds of outages a year).

  • @QuietStormX
    @QuietStormX 2 года назад

    You only talk DIY systems than SFH Systems than run on NG. I like Kohler myself! I hate all electric! Then you can get ones for campers or BBQ's