Generators..What to Purchase
We know nothing about generators but are doing some research. Need to purchase one for emergency use and to use for beach camping. How big do we need to go to run a 15K AC and a few misc. items???
Forum Discussion
34 Replies
- We've run a Honda 3000I for the last 8 years and it still runs like a champ. 1 battery replacement and a bit finicky with low oil shutdown are its only nits.
Were I to need to replace it I would opt for 2 Honda 2000i units. This would reduce our fuel consumption allow alternate morning runs to brew coffee etc.
It would also provide more convenient portable power around the S&B's.
We would lose the electric start though. - 3500 watts will generally run any 13,500 AC and most 15,000 AC units as well.
The issue that you hear on here, is type (open frame) or inverter and premium brands vs less expensive.
Least noise is generally the most expensive. Inverters are less noisey than open frame.
Honda 3000 watt inverter is around $2000
Yamaha similar sized is similar priced
Champion 3100-3400 inverter around $900
Harbor freight 3500 inverter about $650
Open frame Honda 3500 watt around $800
Open frame champion or H/F $300- $350
Any of the ones I listed will do what you are looking to do. Better brands generally mean quieter unit of whichever type your looking at.
Now unleash the hounds - 3.5-4K
- The EL BIG question of argument on this forum seems to be how unquiet a particular model is. No neighbors and roaring surf may skew many of the "too-noisy" complaints so be selective of what is offered as advice :).
