THE POWERTRIP BUYING GUIDE
Find the right generator.
A practical guide to choosing backup power for your home, worksite, RV or next trip. Start with what you need to run, then compare capacity, fuel and installation requirements.
Size for running power. Plan for starting demand.
01
List your essentials.
Record the appliances and equipment you intend to operate at the same time. Use their labels and manuals, not generic wattage guesses.
02
Check starting loads.
Motors, pumps and compressors can draw extra power at startup. Generator peak output and rated output are different; confirm both for the fuel you’ll use.
03
Confirm the setup.
Add simultaneous running loads and allow for startup demand. Confirm outlets, voltage, cord ratings and load management with the manufacturer or a qualified electrician. Whole-home and HVAC loads need a professional assessment.
No single wattage fits every home. Actual demand depends on your equipment and how you use it.
Check these before you buy.
✓ Rated and starting watts on your chosen fuel
✓ Correct voltage, phase and outlets
✓ Runtime at a stated load
✓ Weight, dimensions and transport
✓ Installation, transfer equipment and permits
✓ Product warranty, shipping and return terms
Need help narrowing it down?
Tell us what you need to power. We’ll help you compare suitable generator options and the details to review before ordering.
Or email info@PowerTripGenerators.com
Start with how you’ll use it.
Essential home backup
Portable generators can power selected appliances during an outage. Match output and outlets to your loads; a portable unit is not automatically a whole-home solution.
RV & recreation
Compare inverter models for portable power. Check your RV connection, starting loads, weight and manufacturer noise ratings before choosing.
Automatic home standby
Permanently installed systems can start automatically during an outage when paired with compatible transfer equipment. Arrange professional load assessment, permits and installation.
Jobsites & business
Match tools and equipment to running and starting demand, voltage, phase and duty requirements. Consider portability and service access.
Compare your fuel options.
Gasoline
Common for portable generators. Plan safe storage and follow the manufacturer’s fuel-life guidance.
Propane
Available on compatible dual-fuel and tri-fuel models. Check tank size, connection requirements and output on propane.
Natural gas
Requires a compatible generator and suitable supply. Have a qualified installer confirm gas capacity and local requirements.
Dual-fuel / tri-fuel
Adds fuel flexibility. Available fuel combinations and output ratings vary by model; confirm the exact specifications.
Make safe operation part of your plan.
For portable fuel-burning generators: operate outdoors only, at least 20 feet from homes and buildings, with exhaust directed away from doors, windows and vents. Never operate indoors or in a garage. Use CO alarms and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Never backfeed a wall outlet; have a qualified electrician arrange approved transfer equipment for a home connection. Standby systems must follow manufacturer clearances and local installation requirements.