Solar Powered Generators

Amazon Sales Rank: #53002 in Lawn & Patio Color: Storm Grey Brand: Briggs & Stratton Model: 40248 Dimensions: 33.00" h x 24.50" w x 30.50" l, 280.00 pounds Flexible Power Options: The included propane quick-connect kit gets you back up and running immediately, with the ability to upgrade to permanent backup power when convenient. Hassle-free fueling: runs on clean and readily available propane or natural gas; eliminates waiting in long gas lines and the need to store and pour gasoline Longer run time: get up to 12 hours run time (at load) with only two 20-Pound propane gas grill tanks Quiet operation: The fully enclosed compartment features engineered air passages, a lo-tone muffler and acoustic foam dampeners for 50-Percent quieter operation than most portable generators Non-CARB Compliant/Not For Sale In California

Amazon.com Product Review The Briggs & Stratton EmPower power now 7,000-watt standby generator is fully equipped to keep most of your home essentials and conveniences running when the grid goes down. Powered by a durable Briggs & Stratton Extended Life Series engine, this unit quickly converts to a standby generator with an optional transfer switch (sold seperatly) for ready-to-go back up power. This EmPower generator offers 7,000 watts of starting power and 10,500 surge watts when operating on liquid propane (6,000 starting power and 9,000 surge watts on natural gas). See the video on how Briggs & Stratton EmPower generators can protect your family. Protect your family and possessions during a power outage with a power generator by Briggs & Stratton. Whether you are home or away, this generator will keep you up and running smoothly during a power outage. A continuous fuel supply to either propane or natural gas means that you can be assured of fully automatic, hassle-free operation when you need it most. Priced like a portable generator, this versatile Dual-Mode Backup Generator offers you flexible power options. The included propane quick connect kit get you up and running immediately, with the ability to upgrade to permanent back up power when it's convenient. A special cold weather feature keeps the generator heated up when the temperature drops, ensuring smooth starting and efficient engine operation, no matter what the conditions are outside. Running on clean-burning propane or natural gas, this EmPower generator meets all EPA requirements and eliminates the hassle of waiting in long gas lines during emergency situations. An indoor wattage monitor, which plugs into any standard wall outlet, lets you keep track of the power your generator is using. With electric start operation (the generator includes a battery and battery charger), getting your power back is as easy as pressing a button. A computer-friendly internal voltage regulator will keep your sensitive electronic equipment, such as computers and video devices, safe from surges. And with its rugged design features, you'll never have to worry about your outdoor weather conditions. The fully enclosed compartment features specially engineered air passages, a LoTone muffler and acoustic foam dampeners for 50 percent quieter operation than most portable generators. The outdoor enclosure halos features professional rust-proofing and premium storm gray automotive paint for maximum durability and all-weather protection. For added convenience, a maintenance kit is included, which includes a special UL air filter, pre-cleaner, spark plugs, oil filter, and synthetic oil. Also included is a polymer installation pad, touch up paint, oil drain tray, 15 Amp automotive type replacement fuse, and fuse replacement tool. The generator measures 30.5-by-2.5-by-32.5 inches (LxWxH), weighs 280 pounds and is backed by a 2-year warranty. Click here to find the Briggs & Stratton service center near you. Amazon.com Buying Guide Five Tips for Buying Backup Power Download our worksheet (PDF) to help you determine your power requirements. What Types of Generators Are There? Generators come in two basic types: standby and portable. There also are inverters, which are not generators but may meet your needs. The source of backup power you ultimately choose will be determined by many factors, including your power requirements. A standby generator is installed permanently outside your home or commercial building. Portable generators, such as this Briggs & Stratton model, are fueled by gasoline and include 120-volt power outlets like the ones in the walls of your home. View a movie about why you might want to consider installing a standby generator (requires Flash). Standby Generators: A standby generator is permanently installed outside your home or commercial building and wired directly into the electrical system to provide power to some or all of your home's circuits during a disruption of normal utility power. Standby generators are fueled by liquid propane or natural gas. The number of circuits to which a standby generator can provide power--and the number of appliances you can run on those circuits--is determined by the power capacity of the generator. Standby generators are about the same size as, and look similar to, a standard central air conditioner. A standby model may cost as little as $1,500 or as much as $15,000 or more--the greater the power capacity, the higher the cost. Portable Generators: Portable generators are versatile. You can use them for emergency power at home, for power in remote locations where utility power is unavailable, or for recreational purposes, like boating or camping. Portable generators are fueled by gasoline and include 120-volt power outlets like the ones in the walls of your home. When the generator is running, you can plug appliances and tools directly into these outlets. Some generators also include 240-volt outlets (that is, the kind of outlet for an electric dryer or for other large appliances). Portable generators range in cost between a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the capacity and features. Inverters: Inverters turn DC power into AC power, the type of current that powers everyday appliances. A common use of an inverter is to connect one into a car's cigarette lighter and then plug small home appliances into the inverter. Inverters have added features over the years, and today many inverters include emergency radios, lights, or their own internal battery to store power. When you purchase an inverter, you need one that can handle the wattage of the appliances you intend to connect to it. Some inverters are made specifically to power low-wattage appliances, like portable phones or digital music players. Others can handle heavy-duty power tools. If you're buying an inverter that's powered by its own battery, you'll have to consider how many hours the inverter can provide power before needing a recharge. The rest of this buying guide focuses solely on standby and portable generators. How Much Power Do I Need? There are two basic power measurements for generators: peak power (also known as startup power) and continuous power. Both are measured in wattage. Peak power is the wattage required for appliances at startup or when they are running at their highest levels of power consumption. Continuous power is the wattage required for operation of those appliances under normal load. We've provided a worksheet to help you determine your specific needs based on the peak and continuous wattage requirements of the appliances you want to power. What's below is a general guide. Standby Generators: Standby generators create from 5,000 to 25,000 watts or more of power. You'll have to choose a generator that supplies sufficient peak and continuous wattage for the appliances on the circuits you need to power. You can choose between an air-cooled and a liquid-cooled model standby generator. Generally, liquid-cooled models are bigger and create more power. Portable Generators: A small 1,000-watt portable generator may be all you need for recreational purposes. And you may use up to 8,000 watts if using a generator to power tools on the jobsite. Because you plug appliances directly into a portable generator, you'll also want to make sure that your model has the number and type of outlets you need. The size of the fuel tank also is crucial. The bigger the tank, the longer your generator can run without refilling and produce power. If you want to use a portable generator to power specific circuits in your house--or the whole house--follow the guidelines for choosing a standby generator. What Features and Accessories Do I Need? Aside from pure power production, there are some useful features and accessories to consider when buying a generator. Transfer switch: If you want to use your generator to power your home, you'll need a sufficiently sized generator and a transfer switch. The transfer switch safely closes off the utility power line to your house's electrical system and opens a direct line to the generator and reverses the process when utility power is restored. Standby models can work either with a manual or an automatic transfer switch. The benefit of an automatic transfer switch is that it senses when utility power has been lost and automatically switches to generator power. Wheeled Frames: As the name suggests, portable generators can be transported to different locations. The smallest portable generators are comparatively light--perhaps 50 pounds--and can be carried. Larger models can weigh as much as several hundred pounds, making a wheeled frame essential for transportation. Other Considerations: Noise: Generators aren't necessarily quiet. Some offer extra features to reduce the noise created during operation. Weather Protection: Make sure the generator you purchase is suited for the climate in which you'll use it. How Do I Install and Operate a Generator? Standby generators are wired directly into your current electrical system and generally require professional installation. View larger. Setup for portable generators is easy. Just make sure to keep the exhaust port pointed away from your house, and to have the proper distance from your windows and other house openings. View larger. Standby Generators: Installing a standby generator by yourself may void the unit's warranty or violate local building codes, so research these issues before you begin. The basic steps are as follows. First, mount the unit outside your home on a concrete pad or plastic mounting pads that come with the generator. You may need a contractor to pour the concrete foundation and mount the generator. Next you'll need to contact your gas or propane company to connect the unit to its fuel source. Last, you'll have to call an electrician to hook the generator up to your home's electrical system. Some generators come with pre-wired kits that make it easier for the "do-it-yourselfer" to do the wiring. In most cases, it's probably safest and best to have this work done for you. Once installed, operation depends on whether you've used a manual or an automatic transfer switch. With an automatic transfer switch, if the generator senses a disruption in utility power, it turns itself on and takes over power production until utility power resumes. With a manual transfer switch, you have to handle these chores yourself. On a standby model, you'll have to change the oil and filters on a regular basis. Many manufacturers provide maintenance kits to make this easier. Portable Generators: If you're not planning to hook your portable generator into your home or building's electrical system, there is not a lot of setup involved other than finding a safe place outside your home for the generator. Because portable generators create carbon monoxide, you should never run them inside a building, beneath a window, or near any opening to your house (doors, vents, etc.). Once situated, fill the generator with the required type of gasoline and oil and start the unit. Startup can be as simple as pressing a switch, but on some you'll have to yank a manual recoil pull-cord. Of course, you will have to plug the appliances you want to power into the generator, refuel it as necessary, and shut the generator off when you're finished with it. If you want to connect your generator to your home's electrical system, you'll need a manual transfer switch. Make sure your generator's manufacturer supports connecting your model to a transfer switch. If supported, comply with your model's safety and warranty guidelines as well any local building codes during the installation. In general, it's best to hire an electrician to handle the wiring of your home to the generator and transfer switch. However you use your generator, over time you'll have to change filters, oil, and spark plugs. Plus, you should not store raw gasoline in the generator when you're not using it. Either run the generator empty or add a gasoline stabilizer that will prevent the gasoline from "gumming" up. Many manufacturers sell tune-up kits for their models. How Do I Run a Generator Safely? Do not operate generators indoors, in enclosed spaces, or near a window. Make sure there is proper ventilation for all exhaust. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance. Do not operate generators near combustible materials. Operate portable generators on a level surface. Do not plug a portable generator directly into your house circuit. Do not attach a generator's transfer switch to your circuit box yourself unless you're very sure of what you're doing. Check all applicable local, state, and national codes and the warranty information before you do this. Get immediate backup power now... permanent backup power later. Introducing the most versatile backup generator on the market today. Flexible Power Options: The included propane quick-connect kit gets you back up and running immediately, with the ability to upgrade to permanent backup power when convenient. Hassle-Free Fueling: Runs on clean and readily available Propane or Natural Gas: eliminates waiting in long gas lines and the need to store and pour gasoline. Longer Run Time: Get up to 12 hours run time (at load) with only two 20-Pound. Propane gas grill tanks. Powerful and Reliable: Powered by a durable Briggs and Stratton Extended Life Series engine, the Dual-Mode Backup Generator provides 7,000 watts and up to 10,500 watts of starting power-perfect for most essential household requirements. Quiet Operation: The fully enclosed compartment features engineered air passages, a Lo-Tone muffler and acoustic foam dampeners for 50-Percent quieter operation than most portable generators. Durable Outdoor Enclosure: Features professional rust-proofing and premium storm grey automotive paint for maximum durability and all-weather protection. Affordable Permanent Backup Power: Priced like a portable generator, the versatile 7,000 Watt Dual-Mode Backup Generator offers the best value in home backup power.

Most helpful customer reviews 89 of 89 people found the following review helpful. Very Happy By P. Ellis I purchased this generator in August of 2008. I live in an area (upstate NY) where we lose power frequently. The item arrived and was delivered to my back yard in perfect working order. We recently had a very bad ice storm in the Northeast and we lost power for 3 days. The generator worked perfectly running my sump pump, hot water heater (gas, direct vent), furnace, fridge (2) and several lights. I had to run power cords from outside rather than use the NEMA power cord to a manual transfer switch I had installed before the generator was delivered (more on that later). I ran the house for 10-12 hours on the 2 20lb propane tanks before I needed to change them out, which was to me, excellent. The generator is very quiet, we could barely hear it in the house. I have it installed behind my garage facing downwind of the house. Okay, the transfer switch issue. While the manual, Briggs & Stratton web site, Briggs & Stratton FAQ page does not specifically state this, you MUST purchase the B&S manual transfer switch PERIOD! The model number is Briggs & Stratton 71014 - PowerNow Generator Transfer Kit (10 Circuits). This is the only transfer switch that works with the GFCI breaker installed in the generator. I had 3 electricians (friends of mine) look at the gen-tran 30 amp transfer switch wiring that was installed in my house and it is NOT a switching neutral switch. Confused? I was too until I got on the phone with a very nice B&S technician who told me to only use their switch. I was dissapointed as I then needed to shell out another $400.00 but now it's working fine. I did let B&S know that they should be specific about the fact that only their switch is compatible with these types of generators. It is because of this fact that I only rated it 4 stars. All in all that one storm alone made this purchase worth every penny. It also kept the house in harmony (if you know what I mean). I would heartly recommend this generator to anyone who is looking for a well built powerful and quiet standby generator. Just make sure you buy the 71014 - PowerNow Generator Transfer Kit from B&S 54 of 56 people found the following review helpful. Be sure to close access door firmly By Kermit P. Moreau Jr. Installation was a snap but I had to go buy a battery. The literature said the unit came with a battery. The only battery that will work comes from Interstate Batteries at a cost of $149. Customer servcie at Briggs said they quit putting in batteries some time ago but did not change their adervertising! First time I used the machine the power went out I went out in the rain to start the machine. It started fine and ran for about 15 minutes then shut down and would not restart. I made the mistake of not latching the access door to the controls. Apparently moisture got in and shut the machine down. After I let the machine dry out for 24 hours it started and ran perfictly. Be sure to shut and latch the access door in wet weather. I wanted to run the machine on Natural Gas. It came with the proper jet to convert it. It said that I would need a special tool and gave the part number to change the jet. I ordered the part and paid $25. When it arrived it was a short handle screw driver. I got taken but you will not if you read this review. 44 of 46 people found the following review helpful. Pretty good but get the better one By Jeff Ray I bought this for my parents who had three outages in two years. It was installed professionally and has already powered them through another outage. It also powered everything in their house except the air conditioning condensers and the electric stove/oven. That is the good news. The not so good news is that this unit cannot be installed with an automatic transfer switch. That is a switch that automatically senses a power outage, turns itself on and then switches over to backup power. This unit uses a manual switch which