Choosing a generator for your boat is as tricky as getting yourself a brand-new boat. The good news is irrespective of the boat you choose; you’ll always find a suitable generator. However, with numerous models available, if you do not have the time to go through the minute details, you may end up with the wrong one.
Remember, the generator is an invaluable asset for any boat. Even if you have all the luxury appliances on board like – air conditioners, refrigerators, televisions, audio systems, and stoves, it’s crucial to choose the right generator to get these guys working. Or else you will soon end up regretting your decision!
With adequate research, you can easily pick the best generator for your boat to enjoy life on the water. Is it your first time hunting for the right boat generator? Here are some pointers that will help make the right choice!
Estimate How Much Power You Need
A generator basically increases the weight of your boat and needs more maintenance. What do you get? A steady flow of up to 120 volts.
Most helms persons invest in the best boat generator to get their air conditioners running. In fact, you need 120 V even during the cold weather. Don’t you think an electric stove is more convenient to use than the gas one? The same goes with getting a refrigerator to keep your food cold instead of an icebox.
Please make a list of the various appliances on the boat and their wattage requirements. Analyze the maximum possible load needed to get them running. You will come across generators that have a power output that ranges between 3.5 kW to 200 kW. Invest in a model that gives 20% more power output than the total power needed to enjoy high-performance.
Lastly, if you wish to spend a couple of days out in the sea, you no longer have to worry about batteries running down if you have a generator on board. Just make sure not to run the generator all night and annoy your anchored neighbors.
What Type Of Fuel Options Do You Prefer?
To pick the right boat generator: begin with identifying the type of fuel needed. If you match the generator’s fuel type with the main engine’s fuel option, you can avoid getting a separate tank for both. You can also skip those additional trips to refill the fuel.
Standby generators usually use natural gas or liquid propane as fuel. Remember to get the spark-free models to prevent explosions. You can also opt for ones that use diesel. Though diesel is more efficient, it is costlier than gas options. Both gas and diesel fuel types need huge tanks to run the boat generator efficiently.
In case you’re getting one for your fishing boat, normally, these boats are less ventilated. So it’s more sensible to choose diesel than gas generators for such boats.
Which Is The Right Size?
Here comes the next important aspect you need to consider: the size of the boat generator. It’s essential to get the right size to make sure that all your appliances work perfectly. Getting an extremely large one is a waste of electricity, whereas a smaller option would heat the engine. It’s best to go for ones that operate between 25 – 75% of the overall capacity.
How Much Does The Boat Generator Cost?
Everyone wishes to get a generator that offers the best value for the price paid. If you are on the lookout for the most affordable option in the market, getting the best solar generator would be the right choice.
Closing Thoughts
Using the above pointers, go ahead and get the best boat generator to enjoy your time at sea. As generators are costly investments, remember to make the right choice to avoid ending up at the wrong end of the bargain.