4 Troubleshooting Tips for your Standby Generator

One of the biggest advantages of doing a regular maintenance routine on your standby generator that includes running the engine with a demand load is that you can address potential issues before you really need backup power. Here are 4 of these potential problems, as well as some troubleshooting ideas that can shed some more light on the issue and define the repair process to get the generator back to peak performance levels as quickly as possible.

·         The generator doesn’t start – This is a fairly common issue when the generator has been sitting idle for an extended period so, if that’s the case, start your troubleshooting process with the issues that are most often associated with months of inactivity. The most likely culprits are the spark plug, a dead battery, and unstabilized gas in the tank that has thickened to the constancy of varnish. If these suspects aren’t the problem, it could be carburetor, which may require professional expertise for a repair.

·         The engine wavers while running – A generator engine that is running rough probably isn’t getting a steady flow of fuel, which points first to the fuel filter. If the engine continues to waver while running after cleaning this filter, the issue may again be related to the carburetor.

·         An engine that starts but then shuts down – If this problem occurs with a relatively light demand load on the generator during a maintenance run, the problem may be a clogged air filter, so check that first. If the problem persists after cleaning the air filter, check to see if the fuel filter needs cleaning.

·         The engine runs and appliances power up briefly, but then shut down – The likely cause of the issue is the circuit breaker on the electrical panel. Flip the breaker back to the “On” position and see if that solves the issue. If the breaker shuts down again, there may be an issue with the demand load being too much for the breaker to handle. The easy solution would be connecting the appliance that consumes the most electricity (the refrigerator for example) to another outlet on a different circuit. If that circuit trips, it may be time to upgrade the panel or install a second one that is dedicated to the most energy-intensive appliances including the air conditioner and the refrigerator.

Regular maintenance is a great way to keep your generator operating at peak efficiency. The second benefit of a regular routine is that troubleshooting and fixing these issues after a maintenance run on your standby generator is far more preferable than trying to figure things out in the minutes following a blackout that has put your home in the dark.

 

Two-Stage Snowblower Repairs after a Rough Winter

In many parts of the country, snowblowers were used more frequently and were tasked with removing deeper snow accumulations than any winter in recent memory. With the snow season coming to a close, now is the time to inspect and repair the components of your snowblower that did some of the heaviest lifting. These components include:

• The skid shoes – The purpose of the skid shoes is to keep the auger blade and the snowblower housing from coming in direct contact with the ground. The skid shoes, which are located on both sides at the front of the housing, can be set at a variety of heights and carry much of the weight of the machine as it runs over the surface being cleared. Whether these surfaces are made of asphalt, cement or frozen ground, after enough time they will wear down the flat surfaces on the bottom of the skid shoes until they look more like rudders. At this point the snowblower will have greater difficulty moving forward and the risk of snapping the skid shoes will increase dramatically. If your skid shoes are getting close to this point, replace them now to avoid far more expensive repairs to the housing and/or the auger.
• The impeller – Two-stage snowblowers separate the snow removal work with the auger collecting snow and the impeller throwing it. This configuration decreases the wear on the two-stage impeller versus single-stage models, but the paddles on this component can still suffer from the wear and tear of throwing rocks, ice and other debris. Cracks, chips and small dents can weaken the structure of the impeller, resulting in less efficient snow removal. Check the impeller for any structural weaknesses and make any necessary repairs in the off-season. 
• The scraper – Much like the steel skid shoes, surface friction will wear down the scraper over a few seasons. Generally speaking, the scraper will wear down and recede fastest at the center, resulting in a curved shape. If your scraper is showing this kind of wear, it’s time for a replacement.

One of the advantages of making these repairs to your snowblower during the off-season is that you have some time to get everything done. On the other hand, waiting until the season starts can add a sense of urgency, especially if using a shovel is the next best option.

3 Maintenance Measures to Ensure Your Generator is Always Ready to Go

Even under the most extreme circumstances, a generator that is purposed for the delivery of backup power will be in use for only a few weeks out of every year. The flip side of occasional use, and one of the biggest ongoing risks for generators, is that the overall reliability of the machine can be affected by long stretches of non-operation.

To make sure that your generator is ready to the next time the power goes down, follow these maintenance measures on a regular basis:

• As per the manual – Generally speaking, generators are extremely durable machines and the required maintenance protocols will be predominantly preventative. By following the specific maintenance routines as put forth in your manual, your generator will be ready for action when the power goes down.
• The battery – Much like a car that hasn’t been driven, the battery on a generator can lose its charge over time as well, especially as the battery ages. In fact, problematic batteries are the most common cause of generators that don’t start. By maintaining a regular schedule of running the generator at a full demand load level, you can either optimize the charge or determine that the battery needs to be replaced prior to the time when you really need the generator to start.
• Put the generator through a full workout on a regular basis – In most instances, a standby generator will go into full power production as soon as power from the grid is interrupted. This instantaneous ramp up can place enormous stress on engine parts, particularly after a long period of inactivity. Putting the generator through a workout at full load demand can ensure that components remain lubricated and that fuel is burned before it becomes stagnant and starts to thicken.

Generators perform at their highest levels with regular maintenance and workouts. By following the regular maintenance as suggested by the owner’s manual, checking the output of the battery and running the generator at full load on a consistent schedule, the backup power you are counting on will be there when electricity from the grid isn’t.

4 Steps to Take as Soon as Your Portable Generator Arrives

Whether your portable generator will be used to supply power during a blackout, for outdoor activities, or both, taking the following steps once it arrives will ensure that your new power source is operated safely and efficiently.

* Select the locations where your generator will be positioned – This is a critical step regardless of how your generator will be used. You’ll want to plan its positioning so that it does not expose people to carbon monoxide emissions while also having it close enough for extension cords to reach the appliances, lighting or equipment that the generator will power. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations as meted out in your operator’s manual to ensure that your generator operates from a safe location.
* If rain is going to be an issue, install a shelter to protect the generator – Electricity and water don’t mix, meaning that if your generator will be running during rainy weather you’ll want to protect it with a well-ventilated shelter. If there is the potential for water to seep in underneath your sheltered generator, elevate it with blocks or a platform to prevent the risk of operation in standing water.
* Buy extension cords rated for heavy loads and exterior use – Determine the items that will be powered by the generator and buy the appropriate number of extension cords. These extension cords will have three prongs and be able to transfer the heavier electrical currents that are produced by the generator. Light duty extension cords can overload quickly, presenting a fire hazard.
* Do a practice run – Before putting your portable generator into action, do a full practice run. If the machine will have to be moved into position, include that task as part of the practice regimen. A dry run can alert you to unforeseen challenges, allowing you to prepare for them in advance.

Taking these steps upon the arrival of your portable generator will allow you to plan for its use. The time spent in preparation can help you avoid the alternative of learning on the fly in the minutes before an event or in the dark after the power goes down.

3 Things to Do with Your Snowblower Now

Removing snow may not be the first thing on your mind at the moment, but taking these steps now will help to ensure that your snowblower tackles the first snowfall with ease and efficiency.

1) Check to see how your snowblower is handling its time in storage – A lot can happen while your snowblower sits in storage, so now is a good time to see how things are going. If you covered the machine when it went into storage, pull the cover off to make sure that moisture hasn’t been trapped. If you smell mildew, check the cover for dampness and look for areas where melting snow may have accumulated. Generally speaking, plastic covers are great moisture traps and if you didn’t do much in the way of cleaning your snowblower at the end of last season, there’s a good chance that you’ll have some water in there. If there is, dry the machine and leave the cover off to allow water to escape.
2) Lubricate the moving parts – This prevents parts from freezing up while in storage. Lubricate the drive gears, the chain, impeller gears, etc.
3) Check belts for signs of drying and cracking – Garages and storage structures can get extremely hot and dry in the summer months, which can dry out and weaken the belts. Drying will take place even faster if your snowblower is being stored in an area that receives direct sunlight. If belts are cracking, switch them out now. If your machine is getting direct sunlight, move it to a space where it will be out of the sun’s reach.

Winter is closer than it may seem now. Taking these actions now will help to keep your snowblower ready when the weather turns cold and your driveway loads up with snow.

Three Steps to Prepare Your Generator When a Big Storm is on the Way

Having either a portable or a standby generator can give you the security of knowing that you’ll be able to keep your lights on and keep your essential appliances running if a big storm interrupts power in your area. Here are three steps to prepare your generator for operation when extreme weather is headed your way:

1) Fuel up – With recent examples such as the damage and extended blackouts that resulted from Hurricane Sandy, you can bet that residents will be out in force the next time a major storm is forecasted to hit an their area. Once a storm warning is issued, get out to buy enough fuel to run your generator for several days. Check your operators’ manual to determine daily fuel requirements for your generator so that you can buy enough fuel to avoid the possibility of needing to head out in rough weather, dealing with blocked roads, fuel shortages, and other challenges that may be present in the days following an extreme weather event.
2) If you have a portable, put it in place before the weather arrives – Having a protective shelter to locate your portable generator will allow you to put it in place ahead of the weather, a much easier task than rolling it out in pouring rain.
3) Give your generator a test run – Putting your generator through its paces in a practice run prior to the actual event can let you know in advance whether your generator is going to function at its highest level of efficiency. An early test run will give you the opportunity to make repairs before you really need your generator.

Buying plenty of fuel, getting your generator in place, and doing a practice run can have it ready to go when you need it. After all, it’s going to be much better to be in the comfort of your home rather than braving the elements to take these steps as the weather is turning nasty.    

Common Mistakes made with Generators During Emergencies

Having a generator to provide backup power during an emergency can make the difference between sitting in a cold quiet house waiting for the return of electricity and being able to function on a relatively normal basis regardless of how long it takes for power from the grid to resume. Having a generator, however, does not automatically ensure that the lights will remain on and that appliances will continue to run, especially if some of the common mistakes are committed.

These mistakes include:

• Not having fuel on hand – This mistake usually occurs after the generator has been sitting idle for a while. Proper maintenance calls for tanks to be emptied prior to extended periods of non-use, which can result in an “out of sight, out of mind” situation where the need for fuel isn’t recognized until someone tries to start the generator.
• Not having a sheltered area for the generator – Generators cannot be run indoors or in a garage due to the emission of carbon monoxide. They also can’t be run with direct exposure to water, meaning that there should be a dedicated shelter to protect the generator from the elements. Without a shelter, a generator can’t be run until rain stops, which can leave a household in the dark until weather passes.
• Forgetting where extension cords are stored – Running a portable generator requires extension cords to be connected to the items that will be powered during an outage. While it may be tempting to use them for other purposes, have extension cords stored in a specific location that will only be used for the generator.  
• Forgetting about maintenance – A generator will require some maintenance, especially if it hasn’t been in operation recently. Follow the maintenance protocols in the operators’ manual to ensure that your Honda generator starts when you need it.

Avoiding these mistakes can make sure that your generator can do exactly what you bought it for. Otherwise, that generator that could be powering your house in an emergency may just sit around until you can get it to work after the storm moves on.

How to Buy the Best Type of Generator for Your Small Business

Installing a generator as a backup power source for a small business can keep operations going and serve as a kind of insurance policy against closing the doors for days or weeks during extended power outages. The key for getting the best results for your small business is to select the style, determine the power output capacity and assess several other factors to make certain that the generator you purchase meets the demands of your business. Here are some of the considerations that can determine whether a portable or standby generator will be the best choice.

A portable generator may be the best choice if:

• The number of employees is low and power usage is relatively small – Some small businesses, such as retail stores that aren’t selling perishables, may be able to operate with limited lighting, a single computer terminal, and power for the phone system and credit card lines.
• Refrigeration needs are minimal – Refrigerators are big energy users, but if a business isn’t selling refrigerated goods, the only one needing power may be the one used to store employees’ lunches.
• A sudden shutdown won’t affect stored data on computers – Businesses that employ computers to track sales and inventory may not be affected by a sudden loss of power.

A small number of appliances and devices require power. Portable generators have a limited number of outlets. If you can power essential office equipment using only the available outlets, a portable generator may suffice.

A standby generator will provide better results if:

• You have a larger workforce and/or heavier energy demands – A business that needs to support a high number of employees and/or uses heavy equipment as part of its operations may need the increased power output of a standby generator.
• Your business sells perishables and/or refrigerated goods – Powering refrigeration can allow for continued operations and prevent spoilage during an extended blackout. In this type of situation, a standby generator can pay for itself during one long outage by saving refrigerated goods from going bad.
• A sudden interruption of power may cause the loss of important data – Computer intensive businesses, such as data processors, may require the automatic changeover to backup power provided by a standby generator to avoid the risk of losing data.
• Your business’ essential operations, such as network infrastructure, are hardwired rather than plug in – Hardwired equipment needs to be powered through the business’ circuitry. Standby generators installed with power switches are the best choice under these circumstances.

The installation of a generator to provide backup power can keep a small business operational during electrical outages. Following these steps can ensure your alternate power solution is the best choice for your business.

4 Tips for the Safe Use of Portable Generators to Power Open Air Events

As summer approaches, the uses for portable generators increase as families head out for camping trips, throw outdoor birthday parties, and host other open-air events. Here are 4 tips that will make sure you get all the power you need in the safest manner possible:

•  Fill the tank – Topping up the fuel tank prior to use can reduce the chances that you’ll need to re-fuel during an event. The problem with re-fueling is that the generator should be allowed to cool down before fuel is added to the tank to prevent ignition caused when the fuel comes in contact with a sizzling-hot surface.

• Keep the portable generator down-wind from the event – An outdoor venue should provide plenty of ventilation but locating the generator down-wind from the gathering can ensure that people aren't exposed to emissions.

• If rain is in the forecast put up a shelter to keep the generator dry – Operating a generator in wet conditions always adds a level of danger so protect it with a shelter or canopy and make sure that extensions cords are not exposed to water. 

• Keep children away – Generators are fascinating machines, especially for small children. Make sure that your portable generator is out of reach or that a parent is positioned to keep children from getting too close.

Being out in the open-air is one of the treats of summer. These tips can help to make sure that your open-air events are powered efficiently and safely.

3 Reasons for Using a Transfer Switch with Your Generator

While automatic transfer switches are most often used with standby generators, they can also be used with portable generators that have electric starters. Another option, if a portable generator is being used for backup power, is to install a manual transfer switch.

Whether you have a standby or a portable generator, there are several reasons to incorporate a transfer switch. Here are three of the big ones:

1) A transfer switch eliminates the need for numerous extension cords – Rather than running extension cords through the house, a transfer switch allows for appliances to be powered by the home’s circuitry.

2) You can power up your hard wired items – Furnaces, air conditioners, lighting and other appliances in many cases cannot be hooked up to a generator with an extension cord. They can be powered through the home’s circuitry if a transfer switch is in place.

3) Using a transfer switch is only way to safely connect your generator directly to the circuits in the home – Transfer switches effectively separate generated power from electricity coming from the main. This prevents back-feeding, which can occur when power is returned and the excess electricity coming from the generator is transmitted back to the power lines. Back-feeding can both start fires and cause severe injury via electrocution of people working on power lines.

While having a generator will allow you many benefits during an outage, installing a transfer switch can add an extra layer of convenience as well. The safety of transfer switches is another benefit, the value of which is impossible to calculate.

3 Tips on Preventing the Theft of Your Snowblower in the Offseason

As the owners of snowblowers may be getting ready to put their machines in storage and forget about them until the first snowfall of the next season, there are several measures that should be taken to prevent the theft of what is for many people a substantial investment. Additionally, these measures can also make it far more difficult for thieves to steal anything else that may be stored nearby.

These measures include:  

* Storing snowblowers in a space that is attached to the home – Thieves are far less likely to steal from a storage area, such as a garage, that is attached to the home than one that is a distance from it. As far as thieves are concerned, the lower the likelihood of running into the people that live in the home, the more interesting the target becomes.
* If you’re storing a snowblower and other equipment in a separate shed, make sure it’s locked up – A storage space that is surrounded by a backyard fence is the best way to go, especially if you have dogs in the backyard as well. Secure the storage shed with a key access, a dead bolt, a padlock or a combination of the three.
* Light your storage area – Regardless of the target, lighting it up will discourage thieves. You can use either a lighting system that operates on a timer or motion-activated lights. Either way, make sure that your lighting cannot be reached by someone standing on the ground as reachable lights provide the opportunity to disconnect them and work in the dark.

Follow these tips and thieves that might have been interested in your snowblower will seek other targets that provide a better environment for theft.

How to Choose the Right Options for Honda Snowblowers

Honda snowblowers have built their reputation on providing a great customer experience by delivering reliability, durability, powerful performance. To make a great experience even better, Honda offers additional options allowing for snowblowers to be customized for specific uses and conditions. Some of these options qualify more as personal choices while others can make certain jobs much easier and/or save hours of time.

One of the options which can satisfy personal preferences is the choice between a manual crank and a joystick to control the direction of the discharge chute. Either option will accomplish the objective. Another personal preference choice, especially considering the consistently easy starting for Honda snowblowers, is the choice between electric and recoil starting. To cover both choices Honda snowblowers offering the electric starting option also come with recoil starting as a backup.

Honda snowblowers come with the option of track drive or wheel drive, a customization choice which can provide a lot of value by saving time and effort. The surface gripping capability of track drive makes clearing snow on uneven or inclined surfaces much easier as increased traction makes for increased ease of operation. Honda snowblowers featuring the track drive option are also a superior choice for clearing hard packed and heavy snow. The nature of wheel driven snowblowers makes them easier to turn and maneuver. These models are the perfect solution for easier clearing jobs which don’t require added traction such as lighter snowfalls and flat surfaces.

Additional options such as heated handgrips and headlights can also add value for situations where snow must be cleared in frigid temperatures or during the early morning/late evening hours. Honda snowblowers, in addition to being the professional’s choice for years, can now be customized to the exact specifications of their intended use.

For more information, visit Harbor Power House at http://www.HarborPowerHouse.com/.

How Standby Generators Do What They Do

The concept of how emergency or standby generators for home use work may sound complicated but, in reality, their workings are easy to understand. The terms emergency and standby are interchangeable as both of these words actually describe the function of these generators.

Standby generators are typically fixed in place and are not designed to be moved around like a portable generator. They can provide power for outdoor uses but their functionality is going to be restricted to powering appliances equipment, etc that are in close proximity to the power source. For that reason, the main purpose of a standby generator is to deliver power to a home or office in the event of an outage.
   
Standby generators accomplish this by constantly monitoring electricity coming from the power grid. In the event that the generator detects an outage of the main power source, the generator switches on automatically to start sending power to the home or office. This change from the main power source to generated power is accomplished through the automatic transfer switch which performs a disconnection from the main power source as soon as the outage is detected. This is another way that a standby generator is different than a portable; when power goes down a portable must be manually connected and then started, usually by push button.

Standby generators can either be purchased to power the entire home or office or can be directed to power specific appliances and equipment such as the refrigerator, heater, medical devices, etc. Whole house generators would naturally be the more expensive of the two and cost more in terms of fuel to run than a less powerful generator that provides power to specified appliances and equipment.

The generator continues to monitor the outage and will continue to run as long as no power is coming in from the grid. Once incoming power from the grid is detected, the standby generator shuts down and switches back to power coming from the grid. The generator goes back to standby mode, monitoring for the next outage. The great thing is that the whole operation is done automatically and requires no human interaction. This can be a huge benefit during severe weather or when someone bed-ridden.

For optimal performance, a standby generator should be run periodically to ensure that everything is in tune and working. These periodic checkups can provide an early alert that maintenance is required so that the generator can operate at full capacity when the situation arises.

Honda Portable and Standby Generators at HarborPowerHouse.com

HarborPowerHouse.com is an authorized Honda generator dealer carrying the full line of Honda’s portable and standby power generators. These generators, like the rest of Honda’s power equipment arsenal, are known and respected for their durability, reliability, and power output by commercial and private users alike. Honda’s line of generators comes in a wide variety of power output levels suitable for the full spectrum of potential uses. Whether large or small, each Honda generator is engineered to the highest standards in the industry and constructed with components of the highest quality in order to deliver reliable performance over the long term.

The generators available at Honda generator dealers such as HarborPowerHouse.com include:

* Portable Generators - HarborPowerHouse.com offers a broad selection of portable Honda generators designed to provide electric power for all kinds of outdoor uses ranging from recreational to commercial uses. Whether you are out with your RV or powering construction equipment, there is a Honda portable generator that can reliably deliver the goods.

* Standby/residential Generators – These generators deliver power immediately when electric outages are simply not an option. These generators can take over power generation for a residence or a business within seconds of detecting an interruption from the power grid.  

Honda’s generators are built to the highest standards in the industry, delivering electric power with energy efficient and quiet reliability for a wide variety of uses and needs.  For more information on Honda’s full line of power generators, visit Honda generator dealer: www.HarborPowerHouse.com or call (877) 837 2648.

Decision Making with Portable Generators

Portable generators have evolved to the point where doing some research prior to buying is an absolute necessity. The first consideration should focus on whether you’ll need an inverter device or not. Inverter devices in portable generators manage the current of the power supply making them the preferred solution for more sensitive electronics like computers, medical devices and television sets. Portable generators that are not equipped with inverter technology are better suited for powering less sensitive items like lights and appliances.

The next consideration is to measure the amount of power you’ll need for lighting, appliances and electronic devices. One caveat here is that a portable generator will have some limitations in terms of the amount of power that can be delivered. For example, running heating or air conditioning may either be beyond the scope of what a portable generator can deliver or use a large enough amount of fuel that constant refilling is required.

To determine the amount of power you’ll require for your electrical needs, total the wattage needed for each item. One thing to keep in mind is that older appliances use power less efficiently than newer ones. If your portable generator is slated to power a bunch of older appliances, be sure to increase the total from what you see on each appliance.

Lastly, if power outages are common in your area, give some thought to the length of a typical outage. This will give you an idea of how long your portable generator will have to run and how much fuel you’ll need to keep on hand.

Deciding Between Single Stage and Two Stage Snowblowers

Making the right decision between single stage and two stage snowblowers can change the task of removing snow from difficult to easy, and maybe even fun. Regardless of the amount of snow your area may experience, the first priority for snow removal is usually clearing the driveway, walkways, and the sidewalk.

Here are a few factors which would favor single stage snowblowers:

* The determination for choosing between single and two stage snowblowers starts with the amount of snow which will typically need to be cleared from these areas. Single stage snowblowers, which are less powerful than two stage blowers, are ideal for areas that receive six inches or less with each snowfall.

* Because single stage snowblowers come in contact with the ground, areas to be cleared should have hard surfaces such as asphalt, cement, brick, or wood.

* Single stage snowblowers also work well with drier and lighter snowfalls.

Two stage snowblowers would be called for under these circumstances:

* Two stage snowblowers carry much more power than their single stage brethren so if the area receives anything between six and twelve inches per snowfall, going with more powerful two stage snowblowers is the way to go.

* Clearing larger and wider areas calls for two stage snowblowers. The wider swath of a two stage blower will get the job done much faster than a narrower single stage.

* Two stage snowblowers are suitable for any surface including gravel and loose rocks.

* Two stage snowblowers are self propelled which makes them suitable for clearing wet and heavy snow on uneven or rough terrain.

Honda snowblowers deliver reliable and durable performance every time. To see the best in single stage and two stage Honda snowblowers, visit Harbor Power House at http://www.HarborPowerHouse.com/.

Commercial Applications for Standby Generators

The global nature of the online world means that internet retailers, auction sites, search engines, social media, banks and software companies have to be open for business all day, every day. With information from Forrester Research Inc. estimating that internet sales will exceed $250 billion by 2014, the risk of downtime caused by an electrical outage will continue to grow.

Due to this need for continuous uptime, internet businesses are increasingly turning to standby generators to provide protection against costly power failures and brief nuisance outages. As the US continues to consume more energy than ever before, a strained and dated electrical grid has reduced the reliability of electrical delivery. This uncertainty has resulted in the growth in popularity of standby generators for commercial use.

This issue and the increasing likelihood of blackouts, brownouts and outages have led to the conclusion by a growing number of online business owners that businesses must protect themselves when it comes to safeguarding their critical applications. Unfortunately, the alternative is being subjected to an increasingly unreliable and fluctuating energy supply as well as the risks of being shut down at any moment and at great expense due to an outage.

A telling survey out of the U.K. backed the sentiment that self reliance in terms of protecting a company’s power supply has become a necessity. In it, over 75 percent of those questioned in a recent survey claimed that standby generators were required to support their critical applications due to a power outage within the past 12 months.

The offering of an always on to power protection has become very compelling as standby generators enable firms to keep critical applications running around the clock.

As profits narrow across the economy, the need for businesses to protect their own power needs goes beyond just online businesses. While these businesses may not require 24/7 power, the costs of being shut down due to a power outage can become astronomical, especially in an extended outage. With that in mind, the investment in the protection provided by standby generators can provide huge returns, especially when potential losses are considered.

Buying the Right Portable Honda Generator for Your Needs

When it comes to the variety of choices you have when shopping for a portable Honda generator, it pays to take the time to address several considerations. The first thing to consider is exactly how the generator is going to be used. If it’s going to be used for lighter uses exclusively, a smaller Honda generator will likely be enough to supply all of the required power needs.

It gets more complicated if, in addition to recreational uses, the generator is going to be used to provide backup power to the home in the event of a power outage. Except for smaller homes, a portable generator will probably not be able to supply power for every appliance, lighting, heating, etc. If this is the case, prioritize the appliances you will need powered on and then total the demand. To play it safe, make your calculations using the power needed to start the appliance, known as “peak power values”.

Another consideration that is often taken into account after a purchase is the ease of portability for the unit. If the generator is too large or heavy for you to move, it could limit its uses and you may not be able to use it for all the things you had planned. This becomes a bigger problem if the unit has to be moved to act as a backup power generator for the home.

It’s often the case that it becomes difficult to accurately measure everything you may want to power on with your Honda generator. To speak with a specialist on these areas, visit: http://www.harborpowerhouse.com/ or call (877) 837 2648.

Honda Portable Generators: Safety Tips

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1) Portable generators
2) Honda portable generators (not on keyword list)  



Honda portable generators offer a wide variety of options for use, ranging from the provision of power while camping to running essential devices and appliances during power outages. As is the same with all power equipment, the safe operation of these generators will optimize their usability as well as their length of service.

Safety tips for Honda portable generators include:

• Never operate a generator inside a home or garage – All fuel-based generators emit exhaust that contains carbon monoxide, so be sure its operating location is a safe distance away from doors, windows, and any other openings to the house.
• Shelter your generator – Protect your generator from too much moisture, dirt, etc. to allow for efficient operation and proper grounding. Make sure the shelter is on a level foundation and has several feet of clearance on all sides.
• Maximize ventilation – Be that your generator is situated in an area that has plenty of ventilation to keep it from overheating and to prevent the accumulation of exhaust.
• Do not refuel the generator while the unit is in operation – Refuel only when the generator is off and has had plenty of time to cool down.
• Do not top off the tank when adding fuel – As a generator warms up, fuel in the tank will expand. Leave some room in the tank to allow for this expansion.
• Do not connect your generator directly to a wall outlet – Instead; plug your appliances into the generator using heavy duty extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.
• Familiarize yourself with the appliances and devices that you will need to run during an outage – This should actually be done prior to purchasing a portable generator to ensure that the generator doesn’t get overloaded by powering too many appliances, devices, etc.
• Before putting the generator away for extended storage, run the generator until empty – This prevents thickened fuel sludge from developing during extended storage. Another option is to add a fuel stabilizer to the tank which can be warranted if the fuel level is high.

Try to familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual prior to use so that you’re not scrambling for instructions on operating your generator as heavy weather or an outage begins. For more information on Honda portable generators, visit: http://www.harborpowerhouse.com/

Honda Home and Garden Products From HarborPowerHouse

HarborPowerHouse.com offers everything you need for your lawn and garden needs. Designed and built to the highest standards possible, the full line of legendary Honda mowers, trimmers, and garden tillers will provide dependability and performance for years to come.

* Honda Lawnmowers: Built to commercial landscaping standards, Honda mowers have been considered the leader in the field for decades for delivering durable, reliable, quiet, and fuel efficient performance. These features are the sum of the combination of the highest quality components with cutting edge design, resulting in machines which do the job while meeting the toughest emission regulations in the country.

* Honda Trimmers: Designing to the highest standards results in the convenience of easy starts and ease of use even for the tough jobs. These trimmers are gas powered with high fuel efficiency, eliminating the need for, and uncertainty of, gas and oil mixtures and reducing the cost of operation. State of the art design gives every trimmer an even feel of balance and low vibration, resulting in easy handling and predictable results.

* Honda Garden Tillers: The line of garden Honda tillers at HarborPowerHouse.com can provide solutions for a full range of gardening needs, whether for a small garden or larger areas. The FG110 mini-tiller functions well as both a small garden tiller and as a tiller for larger projects as well. HarborPowerHouse.com offers a mid-tine tiller and a rear-tine tiller for progressively larger projects. The rear-tine tiller, designed for larger home and commercial projects, is self propelled, providing an unparalleled ease of use experience.

HarborPowerHouse.com has the machinery you need to make your lawn and garden areas beautiful, with ease. Our Honda powered mowers, trimmers, and tillers can take much of the effort out of even the toughest gardening projects. With the reliability, durability, and the ease of working with Honda powered products, working in your lawn and garden might not seem like work at all.