Generators | How to choose the right generator for your specific needs
Choosing the right Generator
I think we all struggle when looking at all the options, models and applications when choosing a generator. Here, we break down some options based on your specific needs..
Camping/RV'ing
Whether you're new to camping or RV'ing or a seasoned veteran, there's always that moment when you wish you had a little power to perform a specific task or perhaps add a little comfort to an occasionally (let's be honest) uncomfortable experience. Camping is great, don't get me wrong. Here at Bracebridge Yamaha, we love the experience of being outdoors, we're just not immune to the occasional hiccup one experiences when “one with nature”. Specifically bitter cold nights, muggy hot days and blackflies... oh the blackflies.
Camping/Glamping
2000W – 2200W
If you decided to go tenting or Car-Tenting, its nice to have a little power to help with some of the more tedious tasks like inflating an air mattress or those new air support tents. Maybe you'd like to listen to some music to pass the time? Here is what we recommend to improve your camping experience.
Bracebridge Yamaha has many options for you to choose. This range of generators is lightweight and compact for easy lifting, storing and carrying and will handle anything you can throw at it when you're out in the wilderness. In this range you can power an air pump, a small television and charge your wireless speaker and cell phone simultaneously.
Some models to choose from include;
EF2000IS – A compact, lightweight, 2000W, Pull-start Generators
EF2000IST – Same specs as above but can be linked together with another of the same model to increase your overall wattage to 3000. This option offers the same ease of use and portability with increased amperage (25A).
EF2200IST – A more powerful model when paired has an output of 30A
RV'ing
2400W – 4500W
With RV'ing, what you're looking for is a little more power than traditional camping. You have to remember that you're likely to have a small fridge, AC unit, television and many other appliances that require the extra power in order to operate properly. It's important to note that all of the generators we're recommending here are inverter generators. Without getting into too much technical jargon, these generators produce a sine wave that is far more compatible for sensitive electronics.
Here are some models we recommend.
EF2400ISHC – At 2400W, this is a great generator for a small RV with an AC unit up to 13,500 BTU. If you're planning on powering additional appliances simultaneously though, you might want to think about moving on to the next unit.
EF2800I – This 2800W generator is the ideal unit for a small to mid size RV. It's lightweight and easy to bring with you on any RV experience.
EF3000ISE and EF3000ISEB – These 3000W generators are recommended for Mid and Large size RV's. The EF3000ISEB provides an extra 10 Seconds of boosted power for when your appliances first turn on. (When they require the most power) A little extra juice goes a long way.
EF4500ISE – At 4500W, this is the perfect generator for Large RV's. You'll be able to run your AC unit as well as additional appliances without any worries about not having enough power.
Home Generators
5500W – 7200W
Here in Northern Ontario, we're no strangers to power outages. We understand how frustrating a few hours or even a few days can be without power in your home. With that said, some of the generators we've recommended above would work well if you're simply trying to power a couple space heaters and perhaps a fridge, but if you're looking to power a good portion of you home, here are some generators we recommend. Please speak with an electrician before making any changes to the wiring of your home.
EF5500DE - This versatile dual 120/240 volt unit is ideal for emergency backup power for home, cottage or business. It can also be used as a primary power source on job sites too.
EF6300ISDE - The EF6300iSDE quietly cranks-out up to 6300 watts of pure sine wave inverter power at 120 or 240 volts. Offering all of the inverter benefits into a portable generator that is powerful enough to be self sufficient or a versatile home standby power source.
EF7200DE - This versatile dual 120/240 volt unit is ideal for emergency backup power for home, cottage or business. And due to its high output, it can also be used as a primary power source for job sites or off grid applications too. Easy to use and easy to move, the EF7200DE sets new standards for performance and value.
Job Site Generators
2600W – 11000W
This range seems massive but the amount of power needed on a job site can also vary an impressive amount. The question to ask yourself here is what kind of power is needed on the job site? How many workers will need power and what kind of equipment will be hooked up to you unit?
If you're simply powering some work lights and charging batteries, go small. If you have a large crew who are using lots of power tools, charging batteries, powering a site office and lighting the job site, go big.
If you need off grid power for large job sites, businesses or portable trucks, there are also diesel options available below.
Here are some units we recommend.
EF2600C - The EF2600C features a new look and enhanced cold weather capabilities. Featuring a "Damper Winding" alternator the EF2600C produces a cleaner sine wave than most conventional generators in its class. The EF2600C offers excellent value and Yamaha's unquestioned reliability. Weighing in at only 44 kg (97 lb.) the EF2600C offers clean, convenient power.
EF5500P - This versatile dual 120/240 volt unit is ideal for primary power sources for industrial & commercial applications such as construction sites.
EF7200P - The EF7200P Industrial Series generator with GFCI protected receptacles. This versatile dual 120/240 volt unit is ideal for primary power sources for industrial & commercial applications such as construction sites. The new EF7200P is easy to use and easy to move.
EDL7000SDE - The EDL7000SDE is a compact and lightweight diesel powered unit designed primarily for commercial applications such as construction, agriculture and business uses. However its compact size and reduced noise levels means the EDL7000SDE can also be used for emergency power backup and off grid applications too.
EDL11000SDE - The largest member of our diesel family of generators is the EDL11000SDE. Despite its high output, its compact design, low overall height and reduced noise levels make it a versatile performer.
At the end of the day, choosing the right generator for your application can be a daunting task. We hope we've made your choice a little easier but if you still have questions, please feel free to give us a call. We'd be happy to help you out.
