Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy and Sustainable Living
ABOUT | CATEGORIES | Worlds of David Darling | ADVERTISING | CONTACT
A · B · C · D · E · F · G · H · I · J · K · L · M · N · O · P · Q · R · S · T · U · V · W · X · Y · Z






generator


backup generator
Backup generator. Credit: Australia-Wide Solar
A device for converting chemical, mechanical, or some other type of energy, into electrical power. Electromagnetic generators are the main source of electricity in the world today.They may be driven by steam turbines, water turbines, wind turbines, internal combustion engines, or a moving part of some other type of machine. A generator is the reverse of an electric motor, which uses electricity to produce another form of energy. In the case of solar technology, a solar module, or a system of solar modules, is considered to be a generator.

Generators are rated by watts (W). To determine which size generator is right for your needs following these steps:
  1. Find amperage and voltage information for each appliance or tool being used
  2. Multiply the volts (V) by the amps (A) to determine the watts you'll need
  3. Choose a generator that meets or exceeds your total wattage requirement

Sample tool and wattage guide
Light bulb 100W
Fan 200W
Color TV 20" 400W
Deep freezer 500W
Computer 15" monitor 800W
Refrigerator/freezer 18 cu.ft. 800W
Sump pump 1000W
Water well pump 1/2 HP 1400W
Space heater 1800W
Electric water heater 4000W


Related category

   • ELECTRICITY GENERATION AND SUPPLY




Also on this site:

Encyclopedia of Science
Encyclopedia of History


BACK TO TOP