What kind of fuel does the generator run on. Gasoline Generator, Power Plant - Operation Manual - House of Energy en

  • 15.06.2019

Most electric gas generators are purchased as a backup power source for country house and household farming. As a consequence, the technique is used for the most part sporadically, only at times of power outages. It often happens that the generator turns on only a couple of times a year and for five years the factory oil does not change at all. At the same time, many users store generators and other garden equipment in the far corner of a damp garage, often filled with fuel. Or they store gasoline, especially for the generator, for many years, without spending it, in cans. Because of this, in general, problems arise in operation. And when you have to get a gas generator for use, it often fails to start or start-up is significantly difficult.

Typical malfunctions of this method of operating a gas generator: carburetor corrosion, valve sticking, spark plug contamination, etc. But after spending only half an hour a year (!) You can get rid of problems and have a mechanism always ready for operation. An additional bonus is not to carry a faulty generator to a specialized workshop, often located tens of kilometers away and clogged with similar equipment of fellow sufferers.

How to maintain a gas generator?

Everyone can service the generator on their own; special knowledge and professional tools are not required for this. All 4-stroke gardening engines are similar in design, and once you service one generator, you can also work with a lawn mower or snow blower without any problems.

Oil change

The first thing to do at least once a year is an oil change. If the oil has not been changed even once in several years (and this is not uncommon!), Then use an oil system flush. To do this, it is quite possible to use a car flush, for example: Liqui Moly Oilsystem Spulung Effektiv. In this case, flushing will require quite a bit of 30-40 grams, because the oil capacity in the generator is on average only 600 ml. The rest of the flush can be used in your favorite car. The sequence of actions is as follows: start and completely warm up the generator, open the filler neck and fill in the flush. Next, start the generator again and let it run without load for another 10 minutes. Drain the oil and refill with fresh oil.

The choice of oil must be approached carefully and read the instructions for the unit. However, it often happens that the instruction is lost at the time of unpacking a freshly purchased generator. What to do, because we read the instructions when nothing else helps. And the generator is not a car, knocking on the wheels and wiping the headlights does not work with it. Then decide for yourself whether you are going to operate the equipment only in the summer or all-season.

For summer operation, Liqui Moly Rasenmaher-Oil SAE 30, a summer mineral motor oil specifically for air-cooled engines, is suitable. This oil is characterized by outstanding high temperature stability and the correct viscosity, specially selected for power engineering engines. After all, such engines do not have oil pump, and the supply of lubricant to the rubbing surfaces occurs with a special scoop on the connecting rod bearing cap and by spraying onto the cylinder walls.

For all-weather operation of the generator, Liqui Moly Universal 4-Takt Gartengerat 10W-30 oil is not just for all-weather use, but also universal, that is, for generators, lawn mowers, and snow blowers. Moreover, both for gasoline engines and diesel engines, although there are not many of them. By the way, the canisters are equipped with a filling tube and an additional funnel is not needed.

Corrosion protection of moving parts

After changing the oil, it is necessary to lubricate and protect the moving parts of the generator, fasteners and ignition contacts from corrosion. The best spray for this is Liqui Moly LM-40, a penetrating multi-purpose lubricant. The preservative and protective effect from the use of the product is up to a year, and you can operate the equipment as usual. The spray displaces moisture, lubricates, eliminates jamming and creaking, cleans and protects rubber and plastic. The composition is ideal for protective treatment electrical contacts. The spray can, bought to service the generator, will come in handy more than once in everyday life, in the household.

Rodent protection

It is necessary to pay attention to the protection against rodents, in nature they are in abundance, they can run into the garage and into the house. Inexplicable but the fact! Mice and rats are very fond of chewing on insulation on wires, and the fact that they can die from electric shock does not stop them at all! To protect wires and repel rodents, Liqui Moly Marder -Schutz-Spray is used - an aromatic compound that discourages appetite in rats and mice. Protects guaranteed for two weeks, additional processing will be required to prolong the effect. This drug is also useful for protecting electrical wiring. car.

Gasoline stabilization

You can complete the list of necessary chemistry with a gasoline stabilizer. Since the fuel is stored in the generator tank and is not consumed immediately, gasoline, especially modern EURO 4-5, oxidizes and loses its octane number. After six months, gasoline may generally lose its ability to ignite from a spark of a candle and will only be suitable for lighting a barbecue. Yes, and the power supply system of the generator, the carburetor, is not good for long and simple without protection.

Liqui Moly Benzin Stabilisator, approved, by the way, by leading manufacturers of power equipment, will help stabilize gasoline and protect the entire power system from corrosion. Before we remove the generator for “combat duty”, we fill the tank with gasoline and fill it with 5 lm of additive for every 5 liters of fuel. Then, we start the engine for a couple of minutes to spread the "potion" through the system and turn it off. Now the generator can be pushed back into the far corner of the garage in anticipation of another utility emergency.

P.S. And if the generator service cannot be started because it simply does not start, then use the Liqui Moly Start Fix quick start aerosol. A couple of seconds of spraying, five seconds of pause and pull the cord. The engine will start even with a filled candle or in hard frost, it is important not to overdo it and not pour half a can at a time into the filter.

About how to prepare the gas generator for the winter tells the technical specialist of the company - Dmitry Rudakov.

The following autochemical compounds and oils were used to process the gas generator:

LIQUI MOLY Oilsystem Spulung Effektiv - oil system cleaner, art. 7591

PRODUCT FEATURES

Quick engine flush LIQUI MOLY Oilsystem Spulung Effektiv is used to effectively clean the engine when operating in frequent traffic jams, with an aggressive driving style and exceeding the standard oil change interval. Does not require special training.

The 300 ml flushing bottle is used for 5 liters of oil.

COMPOSITION PROPERTIES

LIQUI MOLY Oilsystem Spulung Effektiv allows you to clean the engine even from difficult contaminants in severe operating conditions and exceeding oil change intervals, which prevents a whole complex possible problems which can be very costly to eliminate.

With the help of a reinforced engine oil additive package, it effectively dissolves deposits and complex contaminants without clogging the oil receiver, channels and ducts of the oil system. Significantly reduces stubborn residue and extends new oil life

Thanks to a package of protective motor additives, it safely cleans the engine and forms a protective layer that reduces friction

The composition contains a complex for the care of rubber parts of the system and completely leaves the system along with the old oil. Suitable for both petrol and diesel engines without restriction

HOW TO APPLY COMPOSITION

LIQUI MOLY Oilsystem Spulung Effektiv cleaner must be added to warm oil before changing at the rate of 300 ml of additive per 5 liters of engine oil. Then start the engine and let it run for exactly 10 minutes at idle. MOVE ON CAR DO NOT FILL WITH NEW OIL!. Next, you need to drain the oil, replace the oil filter. Fill with fresh high quality oil.

LIQUI MOLY Benzin-Stabilisator - gasoline stabilizer, art. 5107

PRODUCT FEATURES

LIQUI MOLY Benzin-Stabilisator for stabilizing the properties (preservation) of gasoline for lawn mowers, garden motor vehicles and other equipment on 2- and 4-stroke engines allows you to preserve the properties of the fuel and protect equipment parts from corrosion and deposits during storage. The latest developments in the field of fuel additives are used.

Convenient packaging with a LIQUI MOLY Benzin-Stabilisator dispenser allows you to accurately measure the required amount of additive for the available volume of gasoline.

Properties

The complex of antioxidants and anti-corrosion additives that make up LIQUI MOLY Benzin-Stabilisator keep gasoline from gumming and dropping the octane number. Anti-corrosion additives create a layer of polar molecules on metal surfaces that prevent water molecules from attracting to surfaces.

The preparation: prevents oxidation, gumming and aging of fuel, prevents the fall of the octane number of gasoline, has a long-term effect of action, increases the reliability of equipment operation.

The use of LIQUI MOLY Benzin-Stabilisator for gasoline preservation helps to avoid problems with oxidation of the oil and fuel system of garden and other 2- and 4-stroke equipment during storage.

HOW TO APPLY COMPOSITION

Add LIQUI MOLY Benzin-Stabilisator to the tank at the rate of 25 ml for 5 liters of fuel and start the engine. Let it idle for about 10 minutes. The additive is self-mixing with the fuel. After that, you can turn off the engine and put the equipment into storage.

LIQUI MOLY Start Fix - engine starter, art. 3902

PRODUCT FEATURES

LIQUI MOLY Start Fix is ​​designed to easily and quickly start all types of 4- and 2-stroke gasoline and diesel engines, as well as rotary piston engines, when starting problems occur due to batteries, wet spark plugs, cold and wet weather, etc. d.

HOW TO APPLY COMPOSITION

To start gasoline engines, spray LIQUI MOLY Start Fix directly into the air filter or intake manifold and start the engine immediately. To start diesel engines, turn off the glow plugs and heated flanges, open the throttle to full, spray the agent into the intake manifold and start the engine.

LIQUI MOLY Marder-Schutz-Spray - protective spray against rodents, article 1515

PECULIARITIES

LIQUI MOLY Marder-Schutz-Spray - Protects against rodent damage to wires, rubber and plastic products in the car, preventing costly repairs. A mixture of odorous substances repels rodents, but is absolutely harmless to environment and animals. Treat all plastic and rubber parts on all sides. Repeat treatment every 14 days.

APPLICATION FEATURES

If there is a risk of damage to car parts by rodents, it is necessary to treat all accessible rubber and plastic parts of the engine compartment and wheels with LIQUI MOLY Marder-Schutz-Spray. Spray on all plastic and rubber parts. Repeat the treatment after 14 days.

LIQUI MOLY LM-40 - liquid key, test

In addition to good results, LIQUI MOLY LM-40 was remembered for a very pleasant vanilla smell, and if you are going to use a similar product at home, then it is better to use LM 40 than to “eat” the incense of a solvent mixture with kerosene and other chemicals. As for the tests, here the drug showed good results, which made it possible to stake out a place in the middle of the standings. The average loosening moment was 8.96 kgf/m, which is almost 2 kgf/m lower than the initial moment.

ADVANTAGES: pleasant smell, good performance in the test.

DISADVANTAGES: with this attachment of the spray nozzle, the latter is very easy to lose.

GENERAL EVALUATION: The habitat of LIQUI MOLY LM-40 is not only the trunk of a car, but also a shelf in the house.

LIQUI MOLY Rasenmaher-Oil 30 - mineral engine oil for lawn mowers, art. 3991

PRODUCT FEATURES

LIQUI MOLY Rasenmaher-Oil 30 is a year old engine oil for 4-stroke lawn mowers, power plants, motor cultivators and other equipment. Provides excellent engine cleanliness and excellent anti-wear properties. The increased content of additives provides excellent lubrication and prolongs engine life. Protects against corrosion even under severe operating conditions. Tested for compatibility with the catalyst.

HOW TO APPLY COMPOSITION

LIQUI MOLY Rasenmaher-Oil 30 is specially formulated for 4-stroke lawn mower engines and engines requiring SAE 30 HD viscosity oil. The regulations of vehicle manufacturers and engine manufacturers must be taken into account when applying.

CONFORMITY AND TOLERANCES

API SG; MIL-L-46 152E

LIQUI MOLY Universal 4-Takt Gartengerate-Oil 10W-30 - mineral engine oil for lawn mowers, art. 8037

PRODUCT FEATURES

LIQUI MOLY Universal 4-Takt Gartengerate-Oil 10W-30 is a multigrade 4-stroke engine oil for agricultural machinery. based on the latest technologies. Exceeds the requirements of motor manufacturers like Briggs & Stratton, Honda, Tecumseh, etc.

HOW TO APPLY COMPOSITION

When using LIQUI MOLY Universal 4-Takt Gartengerate-Oil 10W-30, the recommendations of the manufacturers and engine manufacturers must be followed.

CONFORMITY AND TOLERANCES

API SG,SH,SJ/CF; ACEA A3-02/B3-02

How to start a new generator? This article will contain all the necessary information on preparing the generator for start-up, its refueling, maintenance and maintenance. How to organize trouble-free and reliable performance generator you will learn by reading this article.

The device of any electric generator with a drive internal combustion engine, regardless of its power, is the same:

1. Generator start block.

2. Internal combustion engine.

3. Oil dipstick.

4. Electric generator.

5. Automatic control of the generator, including a protection unit.

6. Electrical sockets.

7. Fuel tank.

8. Common carrier frame-body.


Preparing to start the generator

Most of the generators sold are fully assembled at the factory, the buyer only needs to fill it with fuel and oil. Before you start refueling, you need to find out which oil and fuel is recommended by the manufacturer. Depending on the type of engine, you may need:

1. Diesel fuel.

2. Gasoline A92 or A95.

3. Methane.

4. Engine oil for two-stroke petrol engines.

5. Engine oil for four-stroke petrol engines.

6. Engine oil for diesel engines.

Refueling two-stroke gasoline engines

The cheapest generator models are equipped with a two-stroke gasoline engine. The internal structure of such an engine does not provide for a separate oil lubrication circuit. To lubricate the engine, oil is supplied to it along with fuel, where it is then burned. The standard ratio of the oil-gasoline mixture is 1 share of oil to 50 shares of gasoline. In such models of generators, oil and gasoline are simultaneously poured into the fuel tank.

Refueling of four-stroke and diesel engines

More modern engines have a separate oil lubrication circuit, so you first need to fill the crankcase with oil, and then fill the tank with fuel.

The amount of oil to be filled must correspond to the volume indicated in the passport. AT household generator with a power of 1.5–2.5 kW, about 1 liter of oil is usually filled. For refueling you need:

1. Unscrew the dipstick plug on the engine crankcase.

2. Fill with 80–90% of the volume of oil indicated in the passport.

3. Replace and then remove the dipstick.

4. Check that the oil level matches the minimum-maximum marks.

5. Add oil in small portions, each time checking its level with a dipstick. Top up until the dipstick shows an oil level that exceeds the minimum, but less than the maximum (if the distance between the “minimum” and “maximum” marks is conventionally divided into four parts, filling up to ¾ is optimal when filling the oil for the first time).

6. Tighten the dipstick plug tightly on the engine crankcase.


It is impossible to use an oil that does not have the required viscosity or another grade (mineral, semi-synthetic) to refuel the internal combustion engine, it is especially dangerous to mix different types of oil for filling.

Refueling is carried out in the gas tank located at the top of the generator. The maximum amount of fuel is indicated in the technical documentation. It is not necessary to fill in fuel "to the eyeballs". The fuel in the tank must be at least 10 mm lower than the upper wall of the tank (the fulfillment of this condition is due to the need to compensate for the pressure created by gasoline vapors). Filling must be done through a special watering can with a mesh filter or a fabric filter.


Recently there has been a large number of multi-fuel generators that support the possibility of using not only gasoline, but also methane gas as fuel. To supply gas, you need to use a special hose, at the point of its connection with the gas cylinder reducer or gas line, you must install a separate shut-off valve.

Checking the air filter

Air filters are installed on all generators. Some of them for effective work needs to be wetted with engine oil (foam filters). Before starting, it is necessary to find out the type of air filter and prepare it for operation, since the quality of purification of the air used and, as a result, the reliability and durability of the generator operation directly depend on this.

Turning on the generator with manual start

Before turning on a charged generator, you must:

1. Choose a well ventilated place.

2. Install the generator strictly horizontally.

3. Disconnect load from it.

4. Connect ground.

After that, sequentially perform the following operations:

5. Open the valve installed at the outlet of the fuel tank.

6. Limit the air supply with a special air damper.

7. Several times, gently pulling the starter cord towards you, lubricate the engine.

8. Turn on the "ignition".

9. Pull the starting handle sharply.

10. If the engine does not start, repeat the operation 2-3 times.

11. After starting, smoothly return the cord to its original position.

12. As the engine warms up, open the choke.

13. Turn on the electric generator.

14. Check the presence of voltage on the installed devices.

Since the fuel system of a new generator is filled with air, if the generator fails to start after 2-3 attempts, you need to bleed the air on the fuel filter and carburetor.

Turning on the generator with an electric starter

Perform the first 5 points in the same way as a manual start, after which:

6. Insert ignition key.

7. Turn it to the "start" mark.

8. Allow the generator less than 20 seconds to start.

9. If the engine does not start, repeat the operation after 1 minute.

10. After starting the generator, return the key to the "ignition" position.

11. Turn on the generator.

If the battery installed in the generator is discharged, then with a starter cord, you can start it manually.

When starting a diesel generator, it is necessary to additionally use a decompressor and bleed air.

Generator shutdown

To safely shut down the generator, do the following:

1. Removal of all electrical load from it.

2. Shut off the fuel supply valve.

3. Wait until the drive motor has stopped.

4. Disable the ignition button.

For emergency shutdown, just press the "stop" button.

If the generator is rarely used, after turning off it is advisable to transfer the piston ICE cylinder to the highest position. This allows you to block access to the engine atmospheric air capable of causing internal corrosion. The piston moves when the starter cord is pulled “towards you”, the place where noticeable resistance appears will correspond to the optimal position for storage of the cylinder piston.

Generator Maintenance

During operation, it is necessary to regularly check the fuel level, at start-up - check the oil level. Constantly monitor the tightness of the oil and fuel system. Generators cannot provide a constant supply of electricity. Depending on the model, at intervals of 8 to 24 hours, it must stop for maintenance (refueling, checking the oil level).

Attention! Refueling while the generator is running is strictly prohibited!

After the first 5–10 hours of operation, an oil change (engine break-in) is required. Subsequent oil changes are carried out according to the schedule given in the instructions.


It is necessary at each oil change to check the condition of the fuel and oil filters, to clean the spark plug from carbon deposits. After cleaning the candle, it is necessary to check and, if necessary, adjust the gap between the electrodes (the optimum gap is 0.7–0.8 mm).

If the generator is operated in dusty areas, special attention must be paid to the cleanliness of the air filter. The frequency of filter cleaning should be reduced to 24 hours of generator operation or less.

For long-term storage, the generator piston must be moved to its highest position. Place the generator in a dry, well-ventilated area. Before starting the generator, it is necessary to add fresh fuel to it (especially if it is equipped with a gasoline internal combustion engine).

Every 2–3 months, to maintain the generator in a working, lubricated condition, it is necessary to start it up and run it until the internal combustion engine is completely warmed up (5–10 minutes).

Vlad Taranenko, rmnt.ru

http://www.rmnt.ru/ - site RMNT.ru

Many manufacturers of household and portable power plants on the packaging or equipment case like to indicate incredibly high performance generator power. At the same time, only in small print in the instructions in the mark with an asterisk indicate that this is the maximum peak power, theoretically calculated on the basis of the magnitude of short-term current overloads or starting currents. Asian manufacturers of generators, who are not particularly shy about slightly exaggerating the merits of the equipment they produce, sin especially with such marketing tricks.

The meaning of advice number 1 - base your choice and load your generator, focusing only on the passport value of the rated power of the generator or on the power that the power plant provides in long-term operation.

Council number 2. Provide the generator with the necessary supply of oil and filters

The interval for changing oil and filters in a power plant is quite short and at the same time depends to a very large extent on the intensity and degree of load on the generator. Since it is often difficult to predict how long the generator will be used as a backup or emergency source of electricity when the central power supply is turned off, at least a minimum supply of oil and filters for one change will allow you to stay in a critical situation with a working generator.

The meaning of advice number 2. Typically, generator manufacturers recommend that the first oil change be done after 25 hours of generator operation, and subsequent changes every 50-60 hours. Please note that this particular oil and filter change period may come during a critical situation, when the uninterrupted operation of the generator becomes vital. Otherwise, instead of eliminating the negative consequences of a lack of electricity, if you have a working generator, you will be forced to sit without electricity or run around shops or acquaintances in search of Supplies.

Council number 3. Cool the engine of the power plant before refueling the generator

After running the generator continuously for several hours, many owners of the power plant immediately grab the can of fuel to refill the generator's fuel tank to the brim, which immediately makes at least two gross mistakes!

Most small-sized domestic and portable power plants are equipped with fuel tanks in the upper part of the body, so that the fuel will automatically fall into the carburetor due to gravity. Imagine what it would be like to refuel a generator if, in a critical situation, your hand trembles and fuel spills onto a hot engine, or you fill the container with gasoline in the dark and it flows down the tank onto a hot engine or exhaust system. And at this time, there is a fuel tank above the hot parts of the power plant, and you, bending over the generator, hold a canister with a combustible substance!

The meaning of advice number 3. Allow the generator to cool down for at least 15 minutes before refueling. You can survive a quarter of an hour without electricity, but at the same time you will protect yourself and your loved ones from a fiery hell! At the same time, do not forget the accompanying rules when filling the fuel tank - do not rush, be sure to illuminate the work when refueling at night and in no case pour fuel into the generator tank to the brim.

The most common cause of failure of all generators is poor fuel quality. Since almost all generator owners keep power plants in case emergency in a filled state, then even the highest quality fuel after a while begins to lose its properties - it decomposes, loses its most volatile fractions, moisture accumulates in the fuel system, varnish deposits and hardly soluble precipitation fall out. Therefore, manufacturers recommend initially using only fresh high-quality fuel, or at least adding a special stabilizer to it, which protects it from decomposition for a long time.

The meaning of advice number 4. For the operation of the generator, of course, a certain amount of fuel is needed, but it is highly desirable not to store it very much. long time in the fuel tank of the generator. If you do not plan to use the power plant for a long time, empty the fuel tank of a cold generator and start the engine until it has exhausted the remaining fuel from the fuel system.

No matter how attractive it would be to plug the generator into the outlet of an apartment or a private house using an adapter or a cord with two plugs and thereby ensure the operation of all electrical equipment in the room, do not do this under any circumstances! It is dangerous for the life of not only your loved ones, but even distant neighbors from the opposite house! The power of even a small generator is enough to kill your neighbor or electrician conducting repair work on power lines.

The meaning of advice number 5. Use either separate extension cords for connection from the standby generator, or use fixed emergency wiring in the room that is not connected in any way to the central power lines. Practice shows that in domestic conditions you should not be smart with various automatic transfer schemes that are used on industrial equipment, because it is either too dangerous or too expensive.

Tip #6 Store Generator Fuel Safely

Throughout the civilized world, maximum allowable norms fuel storage at home. We have not reached this point yet, and we have more problems with providing high-quality fuel and lubricants, so this advice is purely advisory in nature, based on international experience in the operation of household and portable generators.

When forming a supply of fuel and oil for the operation of the generator, the thought “the more the better” does not justify itself at all. For example, it is strongly not recommended to use large canisters with a capacity of more than 20 liters for storing gasoline. The reasons are simple:

  • When filling the generator fuel tank from a heavy and bulky container, there is a high probability of spilling or overflowing fuel. That is, it is dangerous and inconvenient.
  • A long period during which fuel and lubricants will be produced from a large reserve tank can lead to a significant deterioration in the quality of fuel or oil.

The meaning of advice number 6. It is better to store fuel and lubricants in two or even three small canisters than in one large one! Refueling is more convenient and safer, and the fuel supply can be quickly replenished or replaced with a new one!

Tip #7 Use grounding and only high-quality wires to connect the load

Life shows that many of our compatriots, acquiring an expensive power plant, are trying in every possible way to save on wires, and the need to ground the generator is generally considered as a meaningless requirement of the manufacturer.

Why you should not save on wires:

  • Most often, the generator is used under open sky, respectively, moisture, sun and heat or frost affect the wires. The cross section of the wires must withstand a load of 25% -30% more maximum power generator, and the cable insulation must withstand the negative effects of the environment and be resistant to the influence of fuels and lubricants used in the generator.
  • The cross-section and length of the cable must ensure the maximum removal of the generator from the residential area. Even the most expensive and high-quality generator is still quite a noisy device with toxic exhaust gases that you should not breathe even in the absence of a central power supply. At the same time, manufacturers recommend limiting the generator to a distance of about 30 meters from people - so the negative impact of noise, vibration and exhaust gases will be minimal, but at the same time the power plant will remain under the complete visual control of the owner.

Why you should not save on grounding:

  • Automatic generator protection provides for load disconnection only in case of a short circuit or excess current load above the maximum allowable. In the event of a breakdown of electricity on the case, without grounding, circuit breakers unable to perform the protective functions assigned to them.
  • For sustainable and safe work electrical equipment from the generator must have a clean zero, which cannot be achieved without grounding.

The meaning of advice number 7. Do not save on high-quality wires and grounding. Cables with good gauge wires with reinforced insulation and modular pin grounding do not cost so much to save on the safety of your family or on repairs of electrical equipment connected to the generator.

In this article, we have already recommended that the generator be located at some distance from crowded places. However, such a distance from the owner of the generator can provoke thieves to steal an expensive portable power plant. The means of protection is simple - just fasten the frame of the power plant to some stationary mount or massive structure. For these purposes, you can, of course, use a standard U-shaped bicycle quick-release lock, but it is best to purchase a steel chain with a reliable turnkey padlock specifically for the generator.

The meaning of advice number 8. In the event of a massive power outage, not only you will want to stay with the light, but also various dubious personalities who are not stopped from stealing the ownership of the generator. The chain and lock combined cost a paltry sum of money compared to the cost of a power plant. If you follow the advice and equip the generator installation site with modular grounding, you will already have a great place to fix the generator. It is best in such cases to use a piece sewer pipe with lid painted to match the color of the lawn. Inside, you can place the output of the ground loop, and use a powerful lawn anchor to fasten the chain.

But when choosing, the buyer may have a number of questions regarding the purpose of the device and its functionality. Knowing the answers to these questions, it is much easier to navigate the richness of the assortment, and in the future to more confidently operate a home power plant.

How to determine the power of a power plant?

In order to determine the power of the power plant, you need to carry out simple calculations and take into account some of the nuances. Simple calculations are the calculation of the total power of electrical appliances that will be simultaneously powered by a generator. Further nuances. Electrical appliances are active, that is, those in which an active load dominates (electric stove, electric heater, lighting lamps, etc.), and inductive (with the dominance of an inductive load). The latter include electric motors, pumps, saws, compressors, refrigerators, laser printers, and other household appliances, in which the inductive load predominates, especially at the moment of switching on.

In order to calculate the power of a station with synchronous generators for powering active electrical appliances, you need to sum up the power of these electrical appliances and add 15-20% of the margin. For high-quality operation of an electric generator paired with inductive devices, you need to add together the power of all devices and multiply by 2.5-3.

It is known from practice that a 2-kilowatt generator is enough to power a hunting lodge with 2-3 bulbs for lighting, a refrigerator and a TV. Builders using a drill, a concrete mixer and a grinder need to purchase a station with a capacity of about 6 kilowatts.

How many phases should there be?

For single-phase electrical networks and electrical appliances, single-phase 220 V generators are used. Three-phase 380 V generators are used in houses with a three-phase network distribution or in industrial enterprises. When using three-phase generators, it is important to adhere to the equality of power in different phases, but the difference should not exceed 20-25%.

What are the basic rules for operating gas generators?

First and very important rule- overloading of the petrol power plant is not allowed.

The engine should not be idle or under light load for long periods of time. Adequate mode of operation is considered to be a load of 20 to 80% of the rated power.

The generator cannot run continuously. After the development of two tanks of fuel, the engine should "rest".

More about high starting currents

Any electric motor at the time of start-up needs several times more energy than for further work. A good analogy for this feature is the heavy cart example. In order to move such a cart from its place, you need to make a serious effort, but, having gained momentum, it will roll almost by itself. Overloading of inductive electrical appliances during the start lasts a fraction of a second, but even for this time it is necessary to provide for a power reserve, and then the station will work without interruption and will not fail. One of the "record holders" in the cohort of devices with high starting current is submersible pump- frequent inhabitant summer cottages. At the time of launch, its energy consumption can increase by 7-9 times.

Generator Maintenance

Before each start, despite the presence of "insurance" automation, you should make an external inspection of the generator, check the oil and coolant levels. As a rule, generators are installed outdoors, and this can cause dust contamination of the unit, which, in turn, can lead to overheating of parts. It is necessary to carry out an oil change in a timely manner.

The frequency of maintenance depends on many factors: the model of the station, the intensity of work, the quality of consumables, etc. On average, gasoline generators require attention after every 50-100 hours.

In addition to replacing consumables, all electrical contacts, the density of bolted connections, the level of vibration, the operability of protection systems, and so on, must be periodically checked.


A generator that is used very rarely requires special attention. A long downtime for the engine can be more detrimental to daily hard work. For example, in an “unemployed” engine, the flexibility of the ring surrounding the piston is lost, soot forms in the working part, etc. Experts advise not to allow such situations, and with a frequency of about once a month, start the station at 75% load for about one hour.

What grade of gasoline is preferred for use in gasoline generators?

You need to use pure gasoline without adding oil. It is better if the gasoline is unleaded, otherwise the life of the engine can be significantly reduced due to the formation of particulate matter when leaded gasoline is burned.

For engines with overhead valves (the Latin letters OHV are stamped on the valve cover), gasoline with an octane rating of at least 85 (92nd, 95th, 98th) must be used.

For engines with side valves, the octane number of the fuel must be at least 77 (80th, 92nd, 95th, 98th).

When refueling the tank of the electric generator, do not pour gasoline "down the neck". 20% free space should be left to contain the resulting fuel gases.

Fuel power generators are simple and reliable way autonomous power supply during long interruptions in the supply of electricity through electrical networks. There are many generators to choose from today various types and power. Depending on your goals, you can purchase a gas, diesel or gasoline generator. We would like to talk about the latter in this review.

Device and principle of operation

The main unit of the benzoin electric generator is the internal combustion engine. Its operation is provided by various auxiliary systems responsible for supplying fuel and lubrication, noise suppression, exhaust gas removal, generation, storage and transmission of electricity to the consumer device, etc.

The gasoline generator works according to the following algorithm:

  1. Gasoline is poured into the fuel tank.
  2. With the start of the installation, the fuel goes through the gasoline pipeline to the engine.
  3. During transportation, the fuel is cleaned of small "garbage".
  4. Once in the engine carburetor, gasoline is mixed with purified oxygen and sent to the cylinders.
  5. The spark from the spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture, resulting in an overpressure of gas that drives the crankshaft and piston system.
  6. The rotational moment is given to the rotor, which transforms mechanical energy into electricity.

Types of gasoline generators

Exist whole line criteria by which gasoline power plants can be classified. The combination of these characteristics determines the purpose and adaptability to work in specific conditions.

Most often, gas generators are divided into:

  • household and industrial;
  • stationary and portable;
  • two- and four-stroke;
  • one- and three-phase;
  • low-power (less than 4 kW), medium (up to 15 kW) and powerful (all others).

What is the difference between household and industrial (professional) generators is quite obvious. The former are intended for use by the population, the latter are used to supply power to industrial equipment. There is also no difficulty in determining the difference between portable and stationary power plants. As a rule, portable generators have a small power (up to 5 kW) and are intended mainly for domestic use.

But it is already difficult for a non-specialist to determine the difference between two-stroke and four-stroke devices. Push-pull plants are low-power units capable of delivering no more than 1 kW. Anything that produces more power is equipped with a four-stroke engine.

As for the choice between a single-phase and three-phase generator, one phase is quite enough for domestic use. An expensive three-phase power plant is designed to power powerful industrial equipment.

Finally, about power gasoline power plants. For domestic purposes, a generator with a power of up to 4 kW is quite enough. Such a unit will more than provide energy not only private house, but even a small workshop or shop. True, it should be borne in mind that low-power gas generators are not designed for round-the-clock operation. After every 4 hours, the engine should be given a break to cool down.

Gasoline generator sets, whose power is in the range of 4-15 kW, are designed to supply medium-sized commercial enterprises, as well as construction sites and production workshops with a small number of not very powerful consumer appliances. Thanks to a more robust design, power plants in this class can work non-stop all day - 10 hours.

Powerful units capable of generating more than 15 kW are used for power supply industrial facilities, large shops, and office buildings. Devices of this type are installed permanently, often in special rooms or covered pavilions.

Advantages of gasoline generators

The main competitors of gasoline power plants are diesel counterparts. In addition, high-capacity installations can, in certain situations, also compete with gas-fired mini-power plants. To make an informed choice between these three types of fuel generators, you need to understand what their advantages and disadvantages are. Speaking about gasoline installations, one should highlight their advantages in comparison with competitors:

  • Light weight and small dimensions. As you know, due to design features with the same output power, gasoline internal combustion engines are lighter and more compact than diesel ones. Since the internal combustion engine is the main element in the design of a fuel generator, this pattern is also fully characteristic of mini-power plants. For this reason, gasoline generators are better suited for domestic purposes. The most low-powered models can even be taken on a hike in nature.
  • Ease of operation and maintenance. No special knowledge is required for use. Starting, adjustment and maintenance are carried out in simple steps, understandable after a cursory acquaintance with the instructions. Nothing like this is possible with gas generator which requires specially trained personnel to operate.
  • Low noise. Due to the special design of the exhaust system, gasoline generators produce much less noise than diesel generators.
  • Less exhaust. Compared to diesel generators, they produce significantly less exhaust gases, which allows them to be used even in well-ventilated rooms.
  • Operation at sub-zero temperatures. Unlike competitors, the gasoline generator starts without problems even if the ambient temperature is below zero.
  • Fuel Availability. You can buy gasoline at any gas station, and transport it in any suitable container. At the same time, fuel for a gas-fired power plant must either be transported by special vehicles or delivered through a stationary gas pipeline, which greatly limits the possibilities of using gas generators.
  • Low price . The cost of gasoline power plants is always lower than diesel or gas of similar capacity.

Disadvantages of gasoline power plants

Along with the advantages, gas generators also have some disadvantages, which should also be considered when buying an autonomous power plant. The list of main problems includes:

  • Short run time. Depending on the power of the gasoline unit, it needs to be given a break every 4-10 hours. Diesel and gas power plants can work all day long.
  • Low power. Most models of gasoline generators are weak single-phase household installations. At the same time, powerful three-phase models with a large motor are inferior to diesel and gas counterparts in the cost of electricity production.
  • Low motor resource. Gasoline engines require overhaul after 2000 hours of operation (often earlier), while diesel counterparts last twice as long.
  • Poor power quality. The gas generator is the lowest quality electricity producer among fuel mini-power plants. Its voltage drops can reach 10%, which de facto makes it unsuitable for powering highly sensitive equipment.

If you need inexpensive gasoline power generators, you will be interested in the range of EnergoProf. We offer Better conditions sales and delivery of autonomous power plants in the city of Moscow and in the Moscow region.