Buying a generator is confusing. How much power do you need? What makes a home generator different from an industrial one? What’s so special about a pure sine wave inverter? Here’s what you need to know to pick the right Honda generator for your needs, whether you want backup power for emergencies or just want to have a TV on at your next tailgate party.
Why Honda?
In recent years, the market has been flooded with cheap generators using generic engines. While the price tag of these models may be enticing, there are plenty of reasons to spend extra to get a Honda generator.
When you buy a Honda, you get a reliable Honda engine instead of a no-name engine with questionable build quality and limited parts support. There’s no reason to check valve adjustment or replace components before you first use your generator: just add some oil and gas, and it’s ready to go.
All Honda generators have a pure sine wave inverter. Small fluctuations in motor speed results in “dirty” power from the generator. By passing this power through an inverter, these fluctuations are smoothed out. The result is the same smooth cycling between positive and negative electricity you get from household outlets. This makes it safe to use your generator to power sensitive electronics including TVs, computers, and smartphones.
Honda’s Smart Throttle changes the engine speed automatically to meet demand, so it always provides the right amount of power while minimizing fuel consumption and noise.
How Much Power Do I Need?
To figure out how many watts you need, start by checking the power specifications on the appliances you want to use. This information is either stamped on the housing or listed in the owner’s manual. Multiplying amps by 120 tells you how many watts a 120-volt appliance uses. Remember that you probably won’t use all of your appliances at the same time.
Electric motors need 1.5 to 3 times as much power to start as they do to run. Honda builds its generators to handle short bursts of extra power to get these appliances working. Devices with these loads include power tools, refrigerators, and air conditioners.
240-volt connections are needed for well pumps and high power RV air conditioners. However, since this power is single-phase, it can’t power multiphase equipment like welders. 240-volt connectors can be used in 120-volt mode for home and RV shore power.
Choosing the Right Generator for the Job
Honda separates their generators into 5 broad ranges. Depending on your use, there may be more than one range you should consider.
Tailgating and Camping: EU and EG Series
EU-i models are fully enclosed to be quiet, while EU models produce more power. Both ranges are parallel capable. That means you can connect two generators together, doubling the available power across all outlets without having the bulk of a large generator.
All EU Series generators are fully enclosed. This blocks engine noise, making them quieter. If you don’t care much about sound, EG Series generators offer ample power at lower cost.
Home Power: EG and EM
EG models generate between 2,800 and 5,000 watts, making them a good choice if you just want to keep your refrigerator and a few electronics running. EM Series generators produce between 4,000 and 6,500 watts, letting you power more devices at a time.
Both EG and EM Series models are transfer switch capable. With the right equipment and professional installation, these switches can send power through your home wiring. This lets you use your wall outlets instead of depending on extension cords.
Work: EB Series
The EB Series draws from Honda’s other models, offering everything from the portable EB2200 to the 10,000 watt-producing EB10000. Features like external ground connections and GFCI outlets make them safe to use outdoors to power equipment. Wheeled cart models have a steel loop to hoist the generator out of reach when storing at worksites.
RV Shore Power: Many Choices Depending On Your Setup
There’s no RV-specific line, but you can still use home, work and quiet generators for shore power. Look for something that has locking plugs that are compatible with your RV’s wiring system. For small RVs, Honda recommends generators with a 3,000-4000 watt output including the EG4000, EM4000, and EU3000. If you have a large RV with two air conditioners, they recommend 240 volt-capable generators including the EG6500, EM8500 or EU7000.
We Can Help You Get the Right Generator and Keep it Running
Shank’s Lawn Equipment is a certified Honda Power Equipment dealer, carrying Honda generators along with the accessories you need to put your generator to work. If you want a quality generator, or you need help with your current generator, visit us at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg, PA. We also ship OEM parts and accessories across the United States and Canada. To order, visit us online at www.shankslawn.com.
