Modern boats are fitted with power-hungry electrical equipment. While an onboard engine can feed an air conditioning unit, fridge, microwave and other devices with the necessary power, the vibration, noise, and fumes produced can be annoying. A better power source is a marine generator, especially for long remote fishing trips. That said, it is crucial to buy the right marine generator that matches your power requirements. This article highlights tips for selecting the right generator for your boat.
Determine Wattage
The worst mistake a boat owner can make when buying a marine generator is getting one with low wattage. Marine generators cost a lot; therefore, buying one that does not meet the power needs of your boat's appliances is a waste. The best way to determine the right size of a marine generator is to add up the wattage of all the essential boat appliances and multiply the result by 0.25. Multiplying the total wattage by 0.25 accommodates electrical surges that occur when electrical equipment starts up. The figure you get is the minimum wattage you require from a marine power generator. The right wattage ensures that you do not run out of power and get stranded hundreds of miles away from marinas or the shore.
Use the Right Wattage Rating
When shopping for a marine generator, you will realize that the device has two capacity ratings. The first is the continuous wattage rating, and the other is the high starting wattage rating. Your purchase decision should be based on the continuous wattage rating because it refers to a generator's maximum power output over an extended period. The reason is that you will be running a marine generator continuously over long periods while out in the water. Relying on the high starting wattage rating is a mistake since you cannot run a generator at that level continuously; for instance, a generator gets extremely hot and might malfunction. Ask a sales assistant to help you select the right wattage if you find the ratings of a marine generator overwhelming.
Heavy-Duty Extension Cords
Most boat service providers advise boat owners to install a transfer switch to protect their boat appliances from damage due to electrical surges from the engine. However, transfer switches are costly. A relatively cheaper alternative is heavy-duty extension cords. Most importantly, you should match the cord gauge to the amperage or wattage rating of a marine generator. For instance, a 12-gauge cord can easily handle a generator with 1900 wattage.
For more information, contact a supplier of generators like Kohler generators.
