Camping Generators

Your next challenge is picking a suitable type and size of generator and with that in mind you'll need to take the following into account.

A 1kw model will be suitable if you're only going to run some lighting, maybe a lap top and a small portable TV.

A 2+kw model is required if you intend to run heavier duty equipment like a micro wave, hair dryer or larger TV.

If you're looking to run anything with a micro chip (Lap Top Computer) the generator will also need to have an inbuilt inverter to help give a smooth output that won't upset delicate electronics. If you don't the computer will probably keep restarting every five mins or so which can be very annoying. Inverter generators are of course more expensive.

Don't overload your portable generator! If it's a 1kw model you really can't run a great deal off them and the reallity is they are better at battery charging and lighting than anything else. These modern generators do come with safety cut outs built in which should stop the generator if it's overloaded but they aren't always quick enough and it's very easy to fry your generator by suddenly placing a huge demand on it.

Maybe your daughter decides to dry her hair with a 2kw hair dryer at the same time your wife decides to warm her coffee in the microwave suddenly everything goes dark and the generator stops. You inspect it and the electronics are fried - a very expensive lesson I learned the hard way.

Make sure your generator is big enough for your requirements and that your entire party is educated how to use it.

So don't fry your generator but do maintainit. Remember although small and silent it is basicaly a small four stroke petrol engine and like your vehicle does require a little tender loving care.

Check the oil level before you start it up and follow the maintenance routine suggested in the manual. It's easy to think these silent generators will just run and run but one day it'll just stop and you'll only gave yourself to blame.

To give you an idea of cost and capability the Honeywell HW2000i will meet the requirements of most campers and has the following features

• Built in inverter
• Powerful 2.1kw output
• Gas driven
• Four stroke 125 cc motor
• 4-5 Hour run time
• Weighs in at 58lb
• Quiet at 62dB
• 1.5 gallon tank

Ideal for camping as it's very quiet and it's reasonable out put means that with care it will run most of the common household appliances with some care.