Audrey
An electric generator converts energy from an external source into electrical energy. Generators can be quite useful for both companies and households, as it ensures that daily activities can go on if there is a disturbance in the regular power supply. For example, hospitals use generators as an alternative power source in case their normal energy supply is interrupted. Without a generator, machines, such as oxygen machines, couldn’t function in case of a power cut-off. Well-known are Predator generators.
How Does a Generator Work?
Unlike what many people think, a generator does not actually produce energy. Instead, generators force the movement of electric charges present in the wire of its windings through the means of mechanical energy. This provides enough energy for appliances to keep working during a power cut-off.
The way that electrical generators create energy is by taking the power of movement and turning it into electricity. They do this by forcing electrons from external sources through an electrical circuit. This process can be compared with a water pump: a water pump makes water flow but does not actually produce the water that flows through it.
Kinds of Generators
Generators are divided into two classes, based on how they function. There are AC and DC generators. AC stands for Alternating Current. These kinds of generators are also referred to as Alternators. They provide energy based on the electromagnetic induction principle.
AC generators are specified in two kinds, namely induction generators and synchronous generators. AC generators have no brushes and are therefore low in maintenance. The size of this kind of generator is also much smaller, making them suitable as backup generators for households or as portable generators, such as those seen on building sites.
DC generators are more suitable for industrial purposes. They are much bigger and rarely portable. There are three categories of DC generators: permanent-magnet generators, separately-excited generators, and self-excited generators. The output voltage is smoother because the generator forces the energy through coils around its armature.
What Fuel Does a Generator Need?
Nowadays, there are many kinds of fuel available that can function as an energy source for generators. The most used fuel for generators is diesel. Diesel is cheap and can be bought at almost every gas station. Residential generators usually make use of propane or natural gas. Some smaller, portable generators use diesel, gasoline, or propane. There are also bi-fuel systems available, but they are more commonly found in the industry than for residential use. These generators can run on both diesel fuel and gasoline.
Components of a Generator
A standard generator has nine parts that all have essential roles in the production of mechanical energy. The engine supplies the energy to the generator and determines how much energy it can supply. The alternator changes mechanical energy into electrical energy. Fuel is the main source and makes it possible for the generator to produce energy. It consists of a fuel tank, a fuel pump, a pipe connecting the tank to the engine, and a return pipe. The voltage regulator regulates the voltage of the electricity and can convert AC energy into DC.
The cooling and exhaust, and lubrication systems do not have a function in the production of energy but make sure that the generator is kept cool and lubricated. This is essential for the generator to work well. A battery charger starts up the generator, while the control panel is used to operate it. The main assembly is the outside of the generator and holds all the parts together.
Buying A Patriot Power Generator
In these uncertain times, a high-quality generator can be helpful in various ways. Even before the pandemic, there were numerous applications for a generator in the home. However, purchasing a generator is even more appealing because they can genuinely be lifesavers in certain circumstances. Fortunately, hundreds of different generators are available; however, as with most products that come in such vast arrays, this can make deciding which one is right for you an extremely difficult process.
In this post, we will analyze the features of a Patriot Power Generator to determine whether it is the right generator for you. We’ll discuss why you should reconsider before buying one and provide you with alternatives that may be more suitable for your needs. Our Patriot generator reviews will give you a better idea of what to expect from the product and whether it’s worth your money.
A Quick Overview
4Patriots manufacture the Patriot Power Generator 1800. The company is well-known for producing survival food kits and other tools for individuals to be self-sufficient. Although they aren’t solar experts, their Patriot Power Generator 1800 has been selling well.
While no one has reported any fires caused by the Patriot 1800, it’s important to remember that this product is a follow-up to its predecessor: The Patriot 1500. We haven’t heard anything similar about the new version yet — but if you’re concerned, feel free to contact customer service before making your purchase.
The Patriot Power Generator 1800 is a home-use power generator that combines solar panel charging and AC outlet charging (to draw current from the primary power grid). It was introduced more than five years ago and is still a costly solar power option. Solar technology has advanced significantly in the last five years, so it’s worth considering how this unit compares to comparable solar generators.
Patriot Power Generator 1800 Features
Here’s an overview of what makes up this solar generator. We’ve broken down its battery capacity, input potential, and output capability below to determine whether or not it’s worth your money.
Battery Capacity
You might assume that because it’s called the Patriot 1800, it has a massive 1,800wh battery. Not at all. The Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePo4) battery is excellent but is not 1,800wh in capacity. Certainly not even a quarter of that. About 650-watt hours is the capacity of the battery. To give you an idea, a standard refrigerator will run for about 5 hours on a 650wh battery. It wasn’t even a full day.
Battery Shelf Life
The Patriot Power Generator can store enough energy for electrical power appliances for six months if you charge the generator to capacity and use it regularly. However, most users find that the actual shelf life of these types of batteries is significantly less than advertised. Often it comes closer to just a single month—a symptom of using dated deep-cycle batteries.
Battery Life Cycle
The manufacturer claims that the Patriot 1800 has 2,500 life cycles, which is impossible to verify practically. This means you could theoretically use the product every day for almost seven years before you needed to replace it. It’s convenient, but unless you’re completely cut off from the power grid, I doubt you’ll ever need to use the generator that often.
Input Potential
The Patriot Power Generator 1800 has an MPPT charge controller. It can accept a maximum of 240 watts in solar inputs, despite its small 100-watt panel. This is significantly less than the input potential of competing solar generators, which can range from 500 to 100 watts for solar panels.
Even though the Patriot 1800 can take in up to 240 watts of solar power, 4Patriots only offers 100-watt panels. If they only supply 100-watt panels, getting 240 watts will be a major challenge. As a result, we believe the Patriot Power Generator is not the best option for emergency backup.
Output Capability
The Patriot 1800, as the name implies, can generate up to 1800W of power. As long as the combined power consumption of all plugged-in devices does not exceed 1800W, you can plug in as many of these as you like.
One 1800W power supply can potentially supply electricity to 8 different appliances, provided that you don’t overload it by plugging in all the devices simultaneously. But I doubt many people would need that much power all at once.
Output Ports
The Patriot 1800 has four USB ports and two AC wall outlets. It also has a DC 12V car output port. This may seem respectable at first, but it’s quite dated. You can only have two things plugged in at once, which is inconvenient in an emergency. Newer and improved solar generators typically have more output ports and more convenient features, such as USB-C outputs.
Is The Patriot Power Generator 1800 Worth It?
The Patriot Power Generator 1800 is a bit of an odd duck. It has some useful features but is not as powerful as other generators in its price range. The unit’s small battery and solar input, combined with its weight of 46 pounds—more than twice that of most top-rated portables—make it hard to justify as a good option. Hence, we recommend you look at our other picks.
Best Alternatives for Patriot Power Generator 1800
EcoFlow Delta 1800
It comes with four 100-watt solar panels, which can be used to power anything from laptops, and cell phones, to power tools. The Delta Solar Generator weighs 15 pounds less despite having twice the battery capacity, an inverter of the same size, and a higher peak output suitable for powering more demanding appliances. Plus, it charges up twice as fast! More AC outlets, a car charger, and the possibility of 400 watts of solar power being used to charge the battery are all features of the EcoFlow Delta.
Titan 3000W
Compared to the Patriot Power Generator 1800, the Titan has a six times larger battery (4,000 watt-hours), an inverter that is twice as powerful (3 000 watts), and three more AC outlets. It also includes two MPPT charge controllers, each capable of handling up to 1,000 watts of solar input. As a result, you can quickly recharge the batteries using solar panels or the included standard AC wall plug. While Titan generators cost more than most, the peace of mind you’ll have during an emergency is priceless.
Bluetti AC200P
The AP200P’s four solar panels, efficient charge controller, high-capacity battery, impressive surge protection, and capable power inverter make it a much better option than the Patriot Power Generator—at about the same price. It has six AC outlets, so you can connect various devices simultaneously. The 120V outlets can support up to 2,000W of power—a boon for anyone who intends to use their solar generator as a central energy source during outdoor activities such as camping or emergencies.
5 Compelling Reasons Your Household Should Get A Generator
There are many reasons why you should have one for your house, as you’ll learn from this article. It’s best to buy a champion generator or other high-quality brands from reputable manufacturers to enjoy the benefits provided below.
Some of the advantages of having a generator in your home are:
1. You’ll Have Power In Case Of A Blackout
If you’ve experienced a power outage, you know its consequences aren’t pleasing. You have no lights, your electronics don’t work, and your essential appliances like the air conditioner don’t function. One of the worst things about blackouts is that they’re mostly unpredictable. So, in many instances, you’ll barely have enough time to prepare your household for them.
Having a generator means that you’re always ready for the unexpected. Depending on the generator type that you have, it’s best to have backup fuel in store if a blackout goes on for an extended period. Also, ensure regular maintenance to avoid the machine failing you when you need it most, and it’ll serve you longer.
2. You’ll Prevent Food Spoilage
Fridges and freezers help keep food fresh for longer periods by slowing down bacteria activity that spoils beverages, fruits, vegetables, and other edibles. If you’re a busy family, you won’t have to make multiple trips to the grocery store or supermarket with such appliances.
If there’s a blackout, food in your fridge or freezer could go bad. In such an instance, you might be forced to throw it out. It might cause you to lose so much money, and you’ll have to spend more restocking when the power is back. A generator could save you from this. It’ll keep your freezer and fridge running in case of a blackout.
3. You’ll Maintain Comfort And Safety In Your Home
Besides fridges and freezers, a generator will also keep other essential appliances in your home functioning smoothly in the event of a blackout. These may be computers, water heaters, entertainment systems, HVACs, and other machines that you use daily.
You might not feel the effect of a power outage if it only lasts a short time. However, if it goes on for a longer period, your house could become uncomfortable if the HVAC isn’t working. Also, if the water heater doesn’t function, this might be a massive inconvenience in your home.
Additionally, you won’t be able to work without your computer, and your kids might not study. Besides that, lack of electricity means that your outdoor and indoor lights and security system are off. It could encourage burglars to enter your property.
A generator could also help you keep your property comfortable and safe. It’ll ensure all essential appliances in your home are working smoothly in case of a power outage. Also, it’ll help keep your lights and security system on, which will help deter robbers. Needless to say, a generator will give you peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are happy and secure in the event of a blackout.
4. You’ll Increase The Value Of Your Home
You might like to sell your house soon or in the future. In this case, installing a generator is one way to raise your property’s worth. The appliance makes your home more attractive to buyers because they know the worth of having one. To them, they’re assured of continued comfort and security and little or no inconveniences in case of a blackout.
As for you, you could use the generator as a selling point. It might help you get good cash from the sale of your home. Besides that, you could also get your property out of the market much more easily and quickly.
5. You Might Get A Homeowner Insurance Discount
You might also save some money on homeowner insurance if you installed a standby generator. With this machine, you’ll protect valuable appliances in your house from the sudden electricity surge that occurs when power comes back after a blackout. Besides that, if it’s extremely cold in your area, a generator could prevent your plumbing system from freezing. This way, you’ll ensure your pipes don’t burst or crack, preventing structural damage in your house.
Most insurers reward people for fitting standby generators in their homes. It’s because there might be fewer insurance claims from the property owner. That said, one may be required to have a licensed professional install their standby generator for them to enjoy discounts from their insurer.
Conclusion
Besides fridges, freezers, HVACs, and other appliances, a generator is essential in your house. With it, you’ll prevent food spoilage, maintain comfort and safety in your home, and have power in case of a blackout. A generator could also increase the value of your property and help you get a homeowner insurance discount.
