Portable generators are available in a wide range of models including the Generac generators as well as the Honda generators. It is advisable to establish your specific performance requirements before purchasing one so as to get value for money.

Power blackouts are very frustrating especially during extreme weather conditions. On the other hand, you may require electrical power in a remote site that does not have electricity or where having your own source of power is the best option. In addition, having a power back up method comes in handy when conventional sources fail. A portable generator offers a solution regardless of whether you are travelling, at home or at the work place. It also comes in handy in a camping trip in remote areas.

Buying a portable generator is a very important undertaking as it is important to make sure that you are spending your money on a worthwhile alternative power source. There are several portable generators to choose from. However, there are features that you should consider like weight, efficiency. In addition, the purpose of a portable generator is very important as there is no need of buying one whose performance is above your requirement leading to wastage of power and fuel. On the contrary you will be highly frustrated by purchasing one that performs below your requirements.

There are five models of portable generators that you should consider during your search. They have been top sellers in the year 2012. They include:

* Generac Generators: They are effective in the restoration of power in critical installations where an emergency power back up is required. They have low oil shut down which protects the engine in cases of low lubrication. They can be used for heavy commercial applications as they literally light up a ship. However, they do not come with an electric start and are fired up by pulling a recoil starter. They are popular as a result of their ability to generate a lot of power at a low cost. A Generac portable generator is very appropriate if you have a tight budget.

* Briggs and Stratton: It produces 500 watts of more power than the Generac. This type has been around for a long time and has a reputation of having a reliable engine. It is powered by gas and has an automatic voltage regulator, an electric key start, a fuel gauge, five receptacles and a fuel tank that can hold 7 gallons. It is appropriate for short term use despite that it does not have a transfer switch and low oil shut down.

* Honda Generators: They are known for quality construction and reliable engines. They are usually more expensive in comparison to other brands. In addition, they produce little noise and the inverter enables the power to be converted. It can be effectively used to run on sensitive electronics like laptops.

* Yamaha Inverter Generator: They can be considered to be of the same quality and performance in comparison to Honda. This type is very popular with tail-gaters and campers. They are able to power lights and a sump pump simultaneously apart from being quiet.

* Rigid Gasoline Generator: It is affordable and comes with a Yamaha engine that can hold 8 gallons of fuel and has low oil shut down. Five power cords can be plugged at the same time while it is in operation. However it does not have a fuel gauge for telling how much fuel is left in the tank.