Boaters enjoy all the AC-powered conveniences that gen-sets
allow aboard their craft. But not all gen-sets are alike. Following are
a few guidelines to help ensure that a boater who goes shopping for a gen-set
purchases the right unit for his needs.
First, calculate the total power required. Most appliances and equipment
have their wattage or amperage demands printed on them. Add up the wattage
of the items that might operate at the same time. Then, choose a gen-set
that provides about this amount of continuous power. Note that most gen-sets
have the ability to surge to higher power outputs for short periods, to
handle the start-up requirements of electric motors.
Some other tips on power output: when only the amperage of the equipment
is known, multiply amps by the line voltage to obtain wattage. Also, gen-sets
operate best at 50% to 80% of their total output. Select an output that
keeps the gen-set running in this "sweet spot".
A gen-set should also fit the available space and still provide room
for servicing. There are several ultra-compact models on the market for
especially tight areas or smaller boats. Weight and placement are also concerns,
as each can affect boat performance.
Another consideration is operating speed. A high-speed gen-set is usually
smaller and lighter, but produces more noise and has a shorter lifespan.
A low-speed gen-set is generally larger and heavier, but more durable and
trouble- free. High-quality, mid-speed gen-sets have recently been introduced
that provide benefits of both types.
Fuel type is also important. Most boaters simply choose a gen-set that
uses the same fuel as their main engines. However, recently there has been
a trend toward using diesel gen-sets aboard gasoline -powered boats. In
these cases, the diesel gen-set must be certified as having no components
that could ignite gasoline fumes.
Diesel gen-sets offer advantages over gasoline models, including greater
fuel- efficiency and longer service life. Diesel fuel is also less flammable
and doesn't produce carbon monoxide when burned. |