Generators in Your Garden

Strimming the edge of your lawn or trimming your hedge. These days there are a large number of power tools to choose from that will make your gardening that much easier. Most of these tools are available in mains electricity, battery-powered, or some cases petrol-powered. Occasionally you may be repairing fences, working on a shed, or doing work on your vehicle. Access to electricity can make all these things more manageable, and a generator can be an excellent investment.

Generators are handy when working in the garden. It is common to want to be able to use power tools in a garden without having long trailing leads back to the house. It is not particularly safe to have long power-leads running around the yard. So whether you are considering a new generator or a Used Generators.

Tools

If you are using small power tools, such as an electric drill, saw, sander, and other small devices. A small portable generator will be excellent. It will also be adequate for chainsaws, hedge trimmers, strimmers, and lawnmowers. These appliances will usually use less than 3,000 watts, and so are well within the capabilities of a small portable generator. If you are a tradesman and will be using larger power tools, such as brick saws and larger air compressors, you should consider a larger portable generator.

Safety

Of the sad deaths that occurred with Hurrican Sandy, many were the result of carbon monoxide poisoning from generators. Caused by generators that were being run in garages, basements, or porches. There are five issues connected with portable generators you should consider.

  1. Do not run your generator in the garage, even if the doors are wide open. There is the danger of carbon monoxide, which is an odorless gas and can be deadly. Do not run the generator in the rain but cover it with some open-sided structure (like a gazebo) if needed.
  2. The danger of extension cords. If they are old, they may be dangerous. If you plug in too many devices into a cord, you may overload them.
  3. Do not be tempted to connect your generator to your service panel as when the power cut is over; the excess electricity could flow back up the lines and put utility workers in danger.
  4. In the case of a significant power outage, there might be roadblocks and shortages of fuel. Ensure you have an adequate supply before any incident occurs.
  5. Do not refuel petrol powered generators while they are still hot. Fuel splashing onto a red hot component can burst into flames. Allow the generator to cool down before you add fuel. Also, make sure you store petrol in proper containers designed for the job. Storing gasoline in inappropriate containers could cause a major accident to occur.

Whether you choose a new or second-hand generator, be sure to keep it well maintained and have fuel available. You never know when you might need electricity. You will be so grateful that you have.

Featured Image Source: Wikimedia

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