5 Accessories You Need For Your Portable Generator

A portable generator will make all the difference in your safety and comfort during a power outage. Unfortunately, the risks of electrocution or asphyxiation often hold back homeowners from purchasing portable generators.

However, with the right accessories and training, your portable generator will not only save you money but could be life-saving. Portable generator accessories should make using the generator easier and safer, giving you peace of mind.

Here are our top recommended portable generator accessories.

Maintenance Kit

Maintenance is minimal but essential for a generator to continue working for years to come. Many generator brands offer maintenance kits that provide the following:

• Funnel
• Oil
• Oil filters
• Air filters
• Spark plugs
• Fuel stabilizer

Additionally, if you live in a cold climate with below-freezing temperatures, you might want to consider adding a battery heater and oil heater to your maintenance kit.

Transfer Switch

A transfer switch is non-optional for home use of a generator and is legally required in the US to prevent two power sources from feeding into the circuit simultaneously. Transfer switches can be either automatic or manual.

An automatic transfer switch is more complicated to install and costs more upfront; however, it conveniently self-activates and cuts off the main power supply. Once electricity comes back on, it automatically turns off the generator.

A manual transfer switch requires you to change the power supply by flipping the switch and choosing which devices you want to connect to the generator.

Muffler

The more powerful your portable generator, the louder it will be. If generator noise is overwhelming for you and your neighbors, consider installing a muffler or silencer.

You can hire a professional to modify a car muffler, or you can buy one that’s specific to generators.

Push or Remote Start

If you’re still using a pull-start, you know how finicky and exhausting it can be to get your generator going.

Instead of using up all your energy on a pull-start, consider installing a push, or electric, start. Of course, generators with push-starts also tend to be larger because of the required battery.

Another, more advanced option is a remote start. Easily click your remote key from anywhere within range and start it right up. Remote starts are ideal if your generator is placed far from your home or if you have less mobility.

Heavy Duty Extension Cords

Because generators need to be placed far away from your living space (minimum of fifteen feet), you’ll need a quality extension cord to connect it to your home. Your extension cord should be sturdy enough to handle even the most extreme weather conditions.

When choosing an extension cord, keep in mind that it needs the same amperage as your generator, and it must correctly fit both the generator outlet and the transfer switch outlet.

The Benefits of the Right Accessories

Your portable generator is a powerful and necessary tool. Why not make it that much safer and easier to run with these five generator accessories?

When it comes to installing your portable generator accessories, look to the professionals at Midwest Generator Solutions.