Going off-grid on your camping or caravanning adventure is easy if you have a 15 amp generator. Bringing your own power means that you have more freedom to explore and get the full experience in the great outdoors. Always remember to check that you are allowed to run a generator where you intend to go. When you can use your generator to go off-grid, you can look forward to hot food, cool drinks or even just the convenience of having a power station for your devices. A 15 amp generator can also come in handy if you need some backup power at home during an outage or perhaps on-site to run some power tools.
So, what is a 15 amp generator? Basically, when you are calculating the output of a generator, you need to consider the watts, volts and amps. To calculate watts, you need to multiply volts by amps. To calculate amps, you need to divide watts by volts. A generator running 120 volts with a load capacity of 1800 watts will have an output of 15 amps. There are two types of generators as well: fuel-driven or battery-powered. With regards to fuel-driven generators, they are either powered by petrol or diesel, with a type of petrol generator known as an inverter generator being a popular buy.
What can a 15 amp generator run?
What a 15 amp generator can run essentially depends on what you want to use it for. A generator only has a finite output, so the demand must not exceed the output. To work out what you can run, you need to make sure you know the watt output of your unit. Then, you need to look at the appliances that you want to run on your 15 amp generator and calculate if the power demand of those appliances will exceed that of the generator. When looking at the watt capacity, it’s important to remember that the start-up wattage of an appliance will be much higher than the wattage to keep it running, so that needs to be taken into account when you are deciding which equipment to buy.
To give a general idea, something like a phone or a laptop can be plugged into an outlet on your generator and will only require a very small amount of watts to charge. However, if you are thinking of running an air-conditioner unit, for example, that will take a large amount of power. In fact, a 15 amp generator may not have the electric current to run it. Furthermore, you need to take into account how many appliances you will be running at the same time. It’s also good to check that your 15 amp generator has enough outlets for your equipment.
How to use a generator safely?
When considering using a fuel-driven generator, there are a lot of safety considerations. You are working with electricity and with fuel, both of which are hazardous if used incorrectly. Take care and be well-informed about safety protocols before you install or use your unit, not just to uphold your warranty but also to protect yourself.
Some basic safety considerations for generator use are as follows: The first thing to consider is the location of your generator. While a battery generator can be used inside, you cannot use a fuel-driven unit inside. Your petrol generator or diesel generator must be located outside in a well-ventilated area away from the residence, tent or caravan, on flat ground. It must also remain in an upright position and somewhere where it can be kept dry. It should also be grounded to prevent shocks and the risk of electrocution. The engine will give off fumes as it runs and will emit carbon monoxide that can be deadly in toxic amounts – and this cannot always be detected by the smell. Take note that as the motor runs, it will get hot, so it’s important to let it cool down before adding fuel to it again. Because it gets hot, any fuel container or filling equipment must not be left lying around near it. Keep in mind that when transporting and filling the tank with fuel, proper equipment (e.g., funnels and containers designed for use with fuel) must be used. When you connect equipment to a generator, make sure you use the correct cords – the heavy-duty ones in particular for outdoor use.
There is also a list of things to avoid, such as smoking near a generator. Make sure that you don’t expose the generator to any static, sparks or flame, and most importantly, don’t touch it with bare, wet hands.
Where can I get a 15 amp generator near me?
At Outbax, we have a range of generators for sale for those looking for a 15 amp generator. Check out our selection and shop our generators online. Whether it’s marine generators, a small generator for camping or an auto-start generator that you’re looking for, we have something for your power needs. Need some advice on which is the best generator for your purpose? Want to know which is the smallest generator available? Or maybe you’d like some more info about a 2000w generator? Get in touch so that we can help you out with advice and suggestions.