If you are living in a remote area and have a mobile home, then you are one of the people who need a power generator for electricity.
A power generator is the most portable source of energy, and it is easy to set up relative to the power grid.
It is quite convenient to fire it up every time you need electricity, for instance, to run your electronics and other household appliances.
A generator uses gasoline or diesel to generate energy.
Therefore, Can You Use A Generator On A Mobile Home?
Definitely yes. A generator is a popular source of energy among mobile homeowners. Whether you are already connected to the main power grid, or you have just bought a new mobile home, a generator is a must-have backup source of electricity. It is quite irritating to cope with power outages that can last for a day before it is restored. Here, a power generator is the best alternative to have.
Six Generator Shopping Considerations
So, if you are planning to purchase a power generator for your mobile home, here are specifications to consider:
1. Fuel Type
A portable generator is typically powered by gasoline or diesel. Before you settle on one, you have to check if these fuels are available at your locality and whether it is affordable.
Standby generators are usually powered by liquid propane or natural gas.
Diesel-powered generators are also available, but they are slightly more expensive.
For both types of generators, you will require some storage tanks for fuel reserves.
2. Generator Wattage
You need a generator that will meet your household power needs. So, the first thing to do is to get your mobile home power requirements.
It shouldn’t worry you so much to get the wattage you need.
Consider the type of appliances and electronic equipment you are using.
The more power appliances you have, the more power wattage you will require.
Find more about the power wattage requirements below.
3. Type Of Generator
There are different types of generators with different power wattage, different sizes, and different fuel usage.
For mobile home needs, you should check for one that will meet your power needs and one that is fuel-efficient.
Examples include inverter generators, portable generators, and home standby generators.
4. Features To Enhance User Experience
Look for additional features that will add value to your experience.
Besides power needs, look out for these other amazing features such as low fuel consumption, electric start, automatic start, fuel gauge, and noise reduction.
5. Generator Size
Here, we mean the automatic transfer switches (ATS) to handle a given number of circuits. For instance, each circuit is connected to the main circuit breaker and the appliance in use.
Therefore, the number of circuits depends on the power rating of the generator.
As you purchase a generator, make sure that it matches the power needs in your mobile home.
An 8-kilowatt generator with 10 circuit breakers can power up to 8 basic home appliances and electronics.
6. Cost And Budget
You cannot buy what you cannot afford.
Prepare a budget that meets your desired specifications and decide on the maximum amount you can afford to spend on a generator.
According to Home Advisor, most mobile homeowners spend between $1400 and $7000 on the power generator.
Look out for a complete cost guide based on power capacity and the type of fuel.
Wattage Needed to Power a Mobile Home
The power wattage is determined by the type and number of appliances that you are using.
Home generators are often measured by specific scenarios such as starting watts and running watts.
Starting Watts
Starting watts is the amount of power required to start an appliance.
For example, a fridge requires 1600 watts of power to start.
Running Watts
Once you start a machine, you will need the power to keep it running. This is called running watts. For instance, a fridge requires 200 watts of power to run.
So, on average, you will require between 3000 and 6500 watts to power most appliances in your mobile home.
If your home has a refrigerator, a furnace, tv, a microwave, and some lighting, you will require 5300 starting wattage and 2900 running wattage.
A 7500-watt generator will be ideal for you, given your needs.
You can switch to power-saving tips to minimize power wastage.
For instance, both the fridge and the furnace require starting power of 1600 watts each.
You can choose to start them at different times, and they will only consume 1600 watts instead of 3200 watts.
The Three Types Of Mobile Home Generators
Before rushing out to buy a generator, it is important to know how it is going to help you power your home.
Each generator has its unique features.
Check out the following :
1. Portable Generator
This is a more versatile generator that is meant to provide power whenever need be.
You can use it to power appliances, tools, and other devices by simply plugging them directly into the generator outlet.
This type has unlimited usage.
It is usually powered by gasoline, and it comes with a power output of 120V to 240V.
2. Inverter Generator
It is technically different from portable and standby generators.
Just like a portable generator, it has an AC output of 120-240 V.
However, and the generated AC power is converted back to DC and inverted back to AC.
The internal circuitry guides power conversion and inversion and acts as a filter.
This type is ideal for mobile homes because it is less noisy.
3. Stand-by Generator
This type is permanently connected to the home.
It may be connected to cover selected circuits to provide power in case of an outage or may be connected to the whole home.
It has an automatic start in case of a power outage.
How To Connect A Generator To A Mobile Home In SIX Steps
You can do this task in about 30 minutes or less.
The first thing to do is to connect the wiring system and later plug it into the generator.
Here are the steps to follow:
- Choose the essential appliances you want to connect, such as TV, fridge, fan, and lighting. The generator should be able to provide power to these devices.
- Obtain wiring. Here, you should consult to find out what is legal in your area. There are two types of wiring systems: interlock kit and manual transfer switch.
- Install an inlet box and hook it up. Installation should be done by a professional.
- Get your setup inspected for safety. Ensure that you check the don’ts and leave nothing to chance when it comes to family safety and the safety of your house.
- Place the generator away from your home before plugging in to prevent your mobile home from catching fire in case of wrong connections.
- Plug it in and verify that all is working.
Portable Generator Safety Tips
- Position the generator outdoor away from home to prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide and other waste gases released from the generator.
- Always ensure that the circuit breaker is on to prevent the load from turning on immediately.
- Use the right size cables and connectors.
- Operate the generator on the dry surface in the open.
- Maintain adequate fuel supply—store all fuel in designated containers and away from a direct source of heat.
Conclusion
It is adequate to conclude that a generator is an essential source of electricity in a mobile home.
And when you are buying a generator, you need to consider your energy needs and your budget.
Apologies for the mistake. Here’s the table:
