Does a portable generator use less gas when you don’t have much hooked up to it?
Steve Y asked:
I am currently running a Honda 5000 while we’re without power. I’m just wondering — does it make a different if I run 1000 watts of power from it or 5000 watts? Will I use less fuel if I hook up a smaller amount to it?
I am currently running a Honda 5000 while we’re without power. I’m just wondering — does it make a different if I run 1000 watts of power from it or 5000 watts? Will I use less fuel if I hook up a smaller amount to it?
Thanks.
Frida
February 20th, 2010 at 9:08 pm
Tyisha
Yes. The more load you put on the generator, the more energy it takes to turn it. You can even hear the engine sound change when you add a heavy load.
February 21st, 2010 at 8:12 am
Chieko
Yes, the amount of energy consumed is proportional to the addictional torque required for the engine crankshaft to turn the generator. Notice on a kids generator when trying to light a lightbulb it has more resistance.
February 22nd, 2010 at 2:26 am
Albertine
More power out will require more fuel going in. As the load increases the engine will consume more gasoline.
Efficiency is another issue. With no load attached, output power is 0 watts. Efficiency will be 0%. As the load increases fuel consumption will increase, but efficiency will be higher. Often maximum efficiency will occur at full rated power, even if this is the highest consumption point.
Read through my home generator page listed below for other ideas on safe and proper connection of your generator.
February 23rd, 2010 at 4:36 am
Evita
Yes. It uses less gas at reduced load.
Just as your car takes less throttle to run at the same speed
downhill than uphill.
The fuel use is not exactly proportional to load,
but it’s close.