They are smaller and more portable than alternatives that use a fuel tank, but are only really useful if you have a low power demand. The engine tucked inside a petrol or diesel generator turns an onboard alternator, which generates electrical power by converting mechanical energy.īattery generators, on the other hand, use battery packs to store electricity. Petrol or diesel generators are filled with liquid fuels which are then used to generate power. Many transportable generators are comprised of an internal combustion engine, an alternator and a fuel tank. In other use cases, a larger generator with wheels might be needed. They are small enough to carry around and can be neatly stored away.īear in mind that these won't provide enough power to keep your whole home running as normal, but should be enough to keep you going with the essentials. If you're purchasing one primarily to use as a power cut back up, most households will be served well by a temporary portable generator. Generators come in various shapes and sizes. Battery, petrol or diesel-powered generators are designed to provide electricity at times when mains supply is unavailable – during a power cut at home, powering electrical items at an outdoor event or while you're on a camping trip, for example.Īll generators will be relatively heavy, whether they're carrying the mechanics of an internal engine or a large battery.
