Things You Should Know About Using Generators in Your Garden
Trimming your hedges or the edge of your lawn is usually done manually. However, it’s also common to see people relying on power tools to make the job faster and easier. Most of these power tools are powered via solar power, batteries, and petrol.
Generators can be useful during gardening, especially portable generators. Whether you want to work on a shed, on your car, or repair the fence, having easy access to electricity makes these tasks easier.
Depending on what you can afford, you can opt for either solar-powered portable DIY generators, a brand-new generating set, or a used one. It’s also advisable you have a separate generator for your garden to avoid having long power leads trailing back to your home.
This article will discuss how to use generators in your garden.
Power Tools
Making your own solar generator that’s small in size is the ideal option if are on a budget and you’ll be using only small power tools such as a sander, electric drill, saw, and others. It can also work for power tools such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, strimmers, and hedge trimmers.
Typically, the above-mentioned power tools consume less than 3 kilowatts, and a small solar-powered generator is capable of providing that.
For tradesmen or artisans using bigger power tools such as big-sized air compressors and brick saws, the go-to power source should be a portable generator of a bigger size.
Safety Precautions
Safety must be taken very seriously, especially regarding electricity or generators. Many deaths have been caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, which is from generators.
These deaths were caused by generators used in basements, porches, and garages. Unfortunately, these are all the right places for the toxic pollutant from the generator to gain access to the home.
Using gas generators comes with specific guidelines or safety tips that you should know before purchasing them. They are listed below:
- Don’t risk running your generator in your garage, regardless of the doors are fully open or not. Carbon monoxide is a deadly pollutant, and it’s odorless, so you won’t even know you’re inhaling it.
- Don’t risk running your generator in the rain. Instead, shield it with a tarpaulin or gazebo.
- Don’t use old or worn-out extension cords because they can be dangerous. Also, don’t overload these cords by plugging in many devices.
- Never connect your generator to your service panel because the excess current can move back up the power lines and may put utility workers in a dangerous situation.
- Never attempt to refuel the tank of petrol-powered generators when the generator is running or off and still hot. Any slight spill of fuel coming in contact with a very hot generator part can trigger a sudden outburst of flames. It’s best if you let the generator cool off before you refuel.
- Always keep your petrol in the appropriate containers meant for that purpose. Using a container not meant for storing petrol might result in a dangerous situation or accident.
- Finally, ensure that your generator is well-maintained and serviced periodically to sustain optimal performance.