Tuesday, December 14, 2010

A Comparison of Generac Portable and Stand-By Generators

Unfortunately, power outages are becoming more commonplace and longer in duration with effects ranging from minor inconvenience to major life events. This has put a new focus on Generac power generators due to their ability to replace normal power in the home to keep essential appliances and other electrical equipment going.

Among the different types of home generators, portable generators are considered to be the most common. This is due to their economics in terms of expense and their multiple uses including camping, RV trips, and providing power for outdoor events. The freedom provided by Generac generators allows for a wide variety of activities that combine both independence and convenience. The versatility also means that a Generac generator can be used year-round for purposes beyond powering a home in the event of an outage.

Generac generators come with a 120-volt outlet, much like those found in the typical household. This convenient feature makes it much simpler to connect appliances and other equipment into a transfer switch which then allows the direct use of electrical outlet in the home.

Compared to stand-by home generators, portable have advantages and disadvantages. Some of the previously mentioned advantages of portable generators are their versatility, economical nature and light weight. Standby generators have the advantage of being able to power an entire home with constant power due the ability to connect them with gas lines outside the home. This can be a huge benefit if an outage is long lasting. These systems can also be configured with an automatic switch to turn on the generator once an outage is detected.

Portable generators, on the other hand, may need to be moved in to place to generate power and require refueling during long outages. They can then be started manually or automatically depending on the configuration. Manual starting can be done either with an electric push button or with a pull cord similar to that of a lawn mower. Portables can be equipped with a transfer or auto-start switch which must be wired directly to the home’s existing electric system. This feature starts up the Generac generator within a few seconds of normal power going out.

The decision between a portable generator and a stand-by really depends on a long list of the needs of the person and intended uses of the generator. Generac dealers have the knowledge and experience to help you find the right generator whether it’s a portable or a stand-by.

To see which type of generator will work best for you, visit Generators For Sale or call (877) 837 2648.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Selecting the Right Honda Generator for Your Needs

Selecting the right Honda generator for you needs starts with the determination of what types of appliances and/or equipment will need to be powered in situations where grid provided electricity is not available. These needs can range from recreational uses to the necessity of delivering electricity during extended power outages caused by extreme weather.

For recreational uses, portable Honda generators can provide plenty of power whether being used for outdoor events, camping, or for recreational vehicles. For these situations, Honda’s EU2000iA can deliver enough electricity for large power tools, microwaves, and kitchen appliances.

At the top end of power needs, “whole house” generators can power everything from medical equipment to home theater and everything in between. Powering an entire house may not be necessary, however, and the wide variety of Honda generators means that you get customize a solution to power exactly what you need to in the case of an outage or a blackout.

By defining the appliances and the circuits they are connected to, a minimum power requirement can be determined which can then assist in the selection of the right sized Honda generator. This list can start with anything from toasters to higher usage equipment but must include the following as these appliances typically use the greatest amount of power and will play the largest role in determining the generator that can provide the solution you will require.

These appliances include:

* Electric heaters
* Electric water heaters
* Air conditioners
* Refrigerators and freezers
* Medical equipment
* Electric dryers
* Well pumps
* Electric stoves

The power required by these appliances can then be totaled to see the type and size of generator that would be required. Also to be considered is whether there is a necessity for powering sensitive electronic equipment such as computers, printers, scanners, etc. If this type of equipment is going to be powered, selecting a Honda generator with inverter technology is advised due to level load of electricity which is delivered. Inverter technology uses microprocessors to deliver power to the exact level of demand which can greatly improve performance and drastically reduce the risk of computer crashes. Honda Inverter technology is a relatively new development in generators which has added a new level of performance for those that require precisely measured power delivery.

Monday, November 1, 2010

La Niña and Honda Snowblowers

The U.S. Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a cold winter with heavy snowfall this year as a weather pattern, known as La Niña, directs winter storms across the northern U.S. This same weather pattern brought snowfall in amounts that rivaled the record books in the winter of 2007/2008.
Regardless of snowfall levels, Honda snowblowers stand ready to provide snow clearing solutions in both residential and commercial situations with their wide variety of snowblowers. With ten different snowblower models available, Honda snowblowers can be customized further with a full range of options to perform at the highest level possible for any combination of factors.

Forecasts for the coming season couldn’t be more different than last year’s winter, which saw relatively light snowfall in many parts of the country. Snowfall was so light in the Northwest that many of the Olympic skiing and snowboarding events had to be delayed for adequate snow coverage to arrive. This year, the U.S. Climate Prediction Center is predicting that the winter months of December, January, and February will experience below average temperatures combined with heavier precipitation levels. The reason behind these predictions is the entrenchment of the La Niña weather pattern which cools the tropical waters in the Pacific. The cooling of tropical waters enables an area of high pressure to build into the North Pacific which then directs winter storms southward toward the northern U.S.

Should these predictions for severe winter weather prove correct, the need for Honda snowblowers will be higher than normal. Harbor Power House carries the full line of Honda snowblowers with customization options available to suit any requirements for both residential and commercial uses.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

How to Choose the Right Honda Lawn Mower

Honda’s lawn mowers are built to commercial landscaping standards, meaning that they can handle jobs from the roughest backyard work to everyday commercial use. Honda mowers have long been considered the leader in the field by professionals for delivering durable, reliable, quiet, and fuel efficient performance. These features are the result of advanced engineering, using only the highest quality components, and Honda’s cutting edge designs. Honda’s mowers consistently do the job while meeting the toughest emission regulations in the country.

Choosing the right Honda lawn mower is a matter of defining the types of usage which will be required and deciding on the level of features, convenience, and performance that will be necessary. The HRX series, considered to be the top of the line for Honda lawn mowers, comes loaded with features including the “Versamow System” which allows for 4 in 1 convenience of mulching, bagging, discharging, and leaf shredding with no additional tools or attachments. Additional features include Honda’s cruise control hydrostatic transmission and Roto- Stop, which allows for the blades to stop while the engine continues to run.

The HRR series of Honda lawnmowers offers outstanding options, features, and value. There are several models to choose from including features such as Smart Drive variable speed, Auto Choke, two position EZ fold handles, and the exclusive Honda QuadraCut twin blade system for state of the art mulching and bagging.

Honda HRS mowers offer Honda reliability, durability, and quality, with exceptional maneuverability and performance at a fantastic value. Features include 6 variable cutting heights ranging from 1" to 3 1/2" and features ergonomic design advances for superior handling, safety, convenience & comfort. The HRR series is also self-propelled, single speed and features side discharge and mulching capabilities.

The reliability and versatility of Honda’s lawnmower series at HarborPowerHouse.com means that there are no bad choices when it comes to buying a lawnmower. Determining how the lawnmower is going to be used can ensure that all lawn maintenance needs can be taken care of in the most efficient way possible. For questions, more information, or equipment specifications, visit: Honda Lawnmowers or call (877) 837 2648.

Deciding Between a Portable and a Standby Generator

The importance of examining all issues prior to deciding on a Honda portable or a standby generator cannot be understated. While the general purpose of both types of generators is the same, the types of use and the conditions in which each one might be employed can be quite different. Portable generators are generally more versatile and are commonly used for recreational purposes such as camping, providing power for outdoor lighting, and powering other types of outdoor equipment. Portable generators can also be used to power up a residence, normally in a limited fashion, in the event of a power outage.

Residential standby generators, on the other hand, generally serve two purposes; automatically starting in the event of a power outage and delivering essential uninterrupted electrical power to designated appliances, rooms, tools, and devices. The fixed nature of standby generators limits their versatility but gives them a critical advantage when power must remain uninterrupted and long term power generation is mandated. The reason for this is that residential standby generators are generally designed to remain connected to the home’s circuitry through the main electric panel. This connection allows for a generator to power up either automatically using an automatic transfer switch, or by push button at the onset of a power outage. An added advantage and an extra layer of protection provided by a residential standby generator is that the addition of a USB battery accessory can ensure that power remains on during the changeover to generated power.

A portable generator, on the other hand, could possibly require fueling, movement from storage (possibly in inclement weather), and manual connection to the home’s circuitry. Under these circumstances, the transfer to power generated by a portable generator may take too long when medical devices or computers are in an “always on” status.

Another factor in the decision between a portable Honda generator and a standby is the length of time that power generation is going to be required. A smaller portable may have a run time of four hours between refueling which is fine for recreational use but could spell disaster in an extended power outage. Where longer runtimes may be required, a standby generator which is connected to a natural gas line allows for unlimited generation without refueling.

Honda’s full line of portable and residential standby generators at HarborPowerHouse.com can provide power solutions whether the need is for light recreational use or for “always on” power. For more information, visit: Honda Generators or call (877) 837 2648.

Friday, April 30, 2010

Honda Lawn & Garden Equipment

Honda’s full line of lawn and garden equipment can handle any sized job ranging from residential maintenance to commercial projects. All of Honda’s lawn and garden equipment is engineered and designed to the highest commercial standards possible resulting in trimmers and garden tillers which will provide durability, dependability, and performance every time.

* Honda Trimmers – Ergonomic design at the highest industry standards gives these Honda trimmers the convenience of easy starts and ease of use for backyard and commercial projects. Gas powered and built to deliver high fuel efficiency, Honda trimmers eliminate the need for gas/oil mixtures while meeting and/or exceeding EPA and CARB standards. Advanced ergonomic design gives every Honda trimmer a balanced feel with low vibration, resulting in consistent trimming and easy handling with less effort. Trimmer options include light to heavy duty as well as Honda’s most powerful trimmer, capable of shearing saplings and small trees.

* Honda Garden Tillers – The line of Honda garden tillers provide solutions for a full range of gardening needs, whether for a small garden in the front yard or for large commercial needs. The FG110 mini-tiller has a versatility which allows it to function well as both a small garden tiller and as a tiller for larger projects as well. The Honda rear-tine tiller, which is designed for larger home and commercial projects, has self propelled functionality, three forward speeds, and one reverse speed to provide ease of use and minimal user effort, even for large projects.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Choosing the Right Honda Home Backup Generator

Home backup generators are becoming increasingly popular for many reasons including; the need for “always on” power, lower generator prices, and advances in the technology resulting in quiet generators. The wide range of uses, power output, and size options now means that buyers can purchase a Honda Home Backup Generator designed to precisely fit their needs. Making the choice of the right generator comes down to defining the following requirements:

* Size requirements – Size requirements refer to the need for a portable home backup generator or one that is stationary. Advances in technology have resulted in portable generators with power output levels similar to stationary generators giving them a wide range of uses. The versatility of portable Honda Generators gives them the capability to meet the demands of many outdoor and in home uses ranging from camping to providing residential standby power. Where a stationary generator would be required are situations where power must be restored immediately should an outage occur. Stationary generators with automatic transfer switches or push button starters can restore power within seconds of an outage, a critical feature for users relying on at-home medical devices, for example.

* Power requirements – The wattage requirements of appliances and devices which must remain on will determine the necessary power output for the appropriate home backup generator. By calculating the sum total of the wattage use of each appliance and/or device a buyer can then determine the minimum required output at maximum capacity from a generator. This calculation should be based on “startup” wattage requirements to ensure that there is enough power generation to meet specific needs. For example, a typical refrigerator’s startup wattage requirement can be as much as two and a half times greater than the wattage it takes to “run” it.

* Safety requirements – Once the power output requirements for a home backup generator are determined, the requirements for running the generator at optimum safety levels can be defined. Where computers handling sensitive data or medical devices are concerned an unlimited power supply accessory should be considered. This can prevent data and power loss during the transfer of power to the generator. Home backup generators are connected to a home’s power system through its main electrical panel. This connection, and grounding the generator, should always be done by a licensed electrician. Lastly, wherever possible, the generator should be located in an area where it is protected from rain and snow. Protection can come in many forms, ranging from a covered patio to a housing built specifically for the generator.

The most important aspect of any home backup generator is that it provides its required power when called upon. Honda’s full line of generators has been delivering legendary reliability, durability, and peace of mind for decades. For more information, visit us online at: Home Backup Generators

Honda’s Super Quiet Generator Series

Honda’s Super Quiet Generator series is ideal for lighter demand requirements for both home and outdoor use. Advances in technology have made these quiet generators run with a purr that won’t disturb a natural setting or the neighbors. The Super Quiet series, which employs Honda's patented Eco-Throttle technology, adjusts engine speeds for maximum efficiency depending on output requirements. This reduces fuel usage, engine noise, and noxious emissions. The Super Quiet Series includes:
* The Honda EU1000iA – This portable model carries the lightest load of the Honda generator line weighing in at 29 pounds. Its light weight and small tank make it a great option for outdoor and light duty home use. Despite their small size, Honda’s Eco-Throttle technology extends these generators run times to over eight hours at a one quarter load demand. The EU1000iA is the perfect solution for powering lights, televisions, low demand appliances, and small power tools.
* The Honda EU2000iA – These Quiet Generators are considered to be the best value in the series carrying a wattage rating of 1600 watts. Perfect for medium range power needs such as microwave ovens and larger power tools, these quiet generators definitely live up to Honda’s reputation for reliability and durability. The portable generator weighs in at 46 pounds and can run continuously for four hours at full capacity and 15 hours at one quarter load.
* The Honda EU2000iA Companion – Another member of the Super Quiet series, the companion is designed to run in parallel with the EU2000iA. This effectively doubles the power output, giving the pairing enough power to run large appliances, such as an air conditioner. The Companion is designed as an exact complement and delivers continuous run times which match those of the EU2000iA.
Honda’s reputation for reliability and durability continues with their technologically advanced quiet generators. For more information on the Super Quiet series, visit us at Honda Generator

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Emergency Home Generator

For many, a loss of electrical power is simply not an option. Whether related to medical needs, severe weather, or other needs for “always on” power, Honda Emergency Home Generators deliver the reliability and durability required for the peace of mind that comes with knowing that electrical power needs will always be met, regardless of the reason for, or length of a power outage.
Honda Emergency Home Generators are designed to become a permanent solution for standby power requirements for either the home or a small business. Depending on the specifications of each model, these generators can restore power during an outage in time frames ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes. For users requiring “always on” power, Honda has emergency home backup generators which come with an automatic transfer switch or push button starter which can start the generator and restore power within seconds of an outage.
These emergency home generators have the versatility of being able to deliver power for hours when running at full capacity or for extended periods when dedicated toward providing power for a specific room, appliance, or electrical device. With their connection to the main electrical panel for either a home or small business, Honda’s Emergency Home Generators can direct standby power toward a specific need or toward powering every aspect of a home or business.
The line of Honda Emergency Home Generators offers a full range of solutions for situations where losing power simply isn’t an option. These generators are also designed to fit into any budget with power output levels to meet any level of demand. For more information, please visit us at Honda Generators

Three Things to Consider When Buying a Residential Standby Generator

Residential Standby Generators serve two purposes; automatically starting in the event of a power outage and delivering essential electrical power to designated appliances, rooms, tools, and devices. There are several issues to consider when the decision comes down to choosing a residential standby generator versus a portable unit. They are:

* The biggest difference between these types of generators from portable units, besides mobility, is that Residential Standby Generators are generally designed to remain connected to the home’s circuitry through the main electric panel. This allows for a generator to power up either automatically, via an automatic transfer switch, or by push button at the onset of a power outage. A portable unit, on the other hand, could require fueling, a rollout from storage, and connection to the home’s circuitry. For a residential standby generator, an automatic switch to generated power normally takes between ten to thirty seconds. A push button start takes about the same time once the generator has been turned on. An added advantage to a residential standby Honda Generator is that the addition of a USB battery accessory can ensure that power remains on during the changeover to generated power. This is essential for a range of uses ranging from preserving data on a computer to delivering uninterrupted power to an at-home medical device.

* Advances in portable power generation have increased power output levels to the point where power delivery can rival the smaller residential standby generators. Still, depending on power requirements and other factors, going with a stationary generator can be the logical choice. Here, there are two considerations, the first one being the power requirements for appliances, rooms, and devices which must remain on during an outage. Refrigerators and air conditioners, for example, require heavy wattage for both startup and running time. The addition of other power needs can easily mandate the higher power output of a residential standby generator. The second consideration is whether a generator which meets the needs of the home can easily be moved into place in the event of an outage. The weight of the unit, severity of local weather, and the difficulty of moving a portable from storage to the main electrical panel must be taken into account.

* Another consideration is the expected run time of the generator. Smaller portable generators, for example, have run times at full capacity of approximately four hours. In an extended outage, a portable could require refueling several times. Under a variety of circumstances, this may not be an option. Residential standby generators, conversely, can be connected to a natural gas line, allowing for run times as long as power remains down and eliminating the need to refuel.

Honda’s full line of portable and residential standby generators can meet the power needs for any home anywhere. For more information, visit us at: Honda Power Equipment

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

How To Choose the Right Honda Home Backup Generator

Home backup generators are becoming increasingly popular for many reasons including; the need for “always on” power, lower generator prices, and advances in the technology resulting in quiet generators. The wide range of uses, power output, and size options now means that buyers can purchase a Honda generator designed to precisely fit their needs. Making the choice of the right generator comes down to defining the following requirements:

* Size requirements – Size requirements refer to the need for a portable home backup generator or one that is stationary. Advances in technology have resulted in portable generators with power output levels similar to stationary generators giving them a wide range of uses. The versatility of Honda’s portable generators gives them the capability to meet the demands of many outdoor and in home uses ranging from camping to providing residential standby power. Where a stationary generator would be required are situations where power must be restored immediately should an outage occur. Stationary generators with automatic transfer switches or push button starters can restore power within seconds of an outage, a critical feature for users relying on at-home medical devices, for example.

* Power requirements – The wattage requirements of appliances and devices which must remain on will determine the necessary power output for the appropriate home backup generator. By calculating the sum total of the wattage use of each appliance and/or device a buyer can then determine the minimum required output at maximum capacity from a generator. This calculation should be based on “startup” wattage requirements to ensure that there is enough power generation to meet specific needs. For example, a typical refrigerator’s startup wattage requirement can be as much as two and a half times greater than the wattage it takes to “run” it.

* Safety requirements – Once the power output requirements for a home backup generator are determined, the requirements for running the generator at optimum safety levels can be defined. Where computers handling sensitive data or medical devices are concerned an unlimited power supply accessory should be considered. This can prevent data and power loss during the transfer of power to the generator. Home backup generators are connected to a home’s power system through its main electrical panel. This connection, and grounding the generator, should always be done by a licensed electrician. Lastly, wherever possible, the generator should be located in an area where it is protected from rain and snow. Protection can come in many forms, ranging from a covered patio to a housing built specifically for the generator.

The most important aspect of any home backup generator is that it provides its required power when called upon. Honda’s full line of generators has been delivering legendary reliability, durability, and peace of mind for decades. For more information, visit us at: Honda Home Backup Generators or call (877) 837 2648.