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When you buy generators online, you're investing in reliable backup power for your home, jobsite, RV, or outdoor adventures. The key is figuring out which type solves your problem. Showing up to a campsite with a 20,000-watt whole-home unit is overkill. To help you find the perfect power solution, we offer a wide variety of generator types and all the necessary accessories to ensure you’re always prepared.
Different generator types serve different needs. Consider your power requirements, available fuel sources, and whether you need a fixed installation or something mobile. Options include:
Budget matters, too. Permanent installations cost more up front but offer hands-free convenience during outages.
Beyond the generator itself, a truly robust power solution requires the right supporting cast. To get and keep your generator running efficiently and securely, consider these indispensable companions:
Calculate your wattage by adding the running watts for everything you want powered simultaneously, then account for the highest starting wattage required by appliances that cycle on, like refrigerators or air conditioners. Refrigerators need roughly 300-800 running watts but 800-1,200 starting watts. Similarly, air conditioning units often require a starting wattage that is two to three times their continuous running wattage.
Don't just grab the cheapest option. Factor in runtime. Will a 6-gallon tank last through a multiday outage? Consider noise levels that might affect neighbors, too. Finally, think about what you’ll be plugging in. If you're powering sensitive electronics like laptops or medical equipment, inverter generators produce clean, stable power that helps protect delicate circuitry.
For basic survival mode, 5,000-7,500 watts keep you functional. Whole-home backup with central air often needs 12,000-22,000 watts, depending on your AC size, appliance load, and how much of the home you want to power.
RV generators typically need 3,000-4,000 watts for basic comfort systems. Larger motorhomes with everything on at once may need around 8,000-12,000 watts. For agricultural operations, PTO generators connect directly to your tractor's power take-off and can handle heavy-duty equipment in remote locations. Commercial applications often require towable generators that deliver 10,000-plus watts for heavy-duty or off-grid power needs.
Standby units are built for the long haul. They're designed for a substantially longer life than their portable cousins. The real secret to longevity is to follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. Neglecting vital tasks like oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, and periodic runs is a recipe for trouble.
Choosing a generator is a significant decision. At Ingrams Water & Air, we believe the process should be as straightforward and supportive as possible. Here are a few reasons why partnering with us makes perfect sense:
Explore our carefully curated selection above and add your power solution to your cart, or dive deeper with our comprehensive backup generator buying guide for intricate details. If you have any questions, we have your back with our dedicated support page.