When you’re hosting an outdoor event—be it a wedding or a family reunion—you may need a generator to provide electricity for twinkling lights, audio players, and other equipment. Understanding how a generator works will help you put it to best use. Learn more about how they operate and how to choose a portable generator for your event by following the advice in this guide

How Do They Work?

A generator uses gasoline, diesel, propane, or another fuel source to produce electricity. By pushing charged particles through a circuit board, it converts mechanical energy to electric energy. Its compact design houses several crucial components, including an engine and an alternator.

An engine generates the mechanical energy that’s converted into electricity, and an alternator produces electric current—a form of electricity that powers appliances, such as refrigerators and radios.

The fuel system that powers the engine consists of a tank to hold the fuel supply, a pump, filter, and injector. Generators also have a lubrication system to supply oil to moving parts and reduce friction. To stay cool, they have ventilation systems. An exhaust system vents gases and fumes.

A voltage regulator controls how much voltage is produced. In addition, a battery charger keeps the battery charged, and a control panel has all the buttons and switches needed to operate the machine.

How to Pick One for Your Event?

The primary consideration for a generator equipment rental is how much energy you need. Different models produce various voltage outputs. To determine how much you need, check the voltage requirements for all appliances and lights you want to power, and choose a model that produces a little more electricity than that.

You’ll also need to consider how much fuel you’ll need. You may need an external tank to hold fuel in reserve. Also, assess the noise that different models make. Some older models tend to be quite loud. 

Outdoor events often need portable generators to power lights, decorations, fountains, sound systems, coolers, and food warmers. For reliable equipment rentals in central Kentucky, choose Bryant’s Rent-All. Based in Lexington, KY, they’ll supply the electricity your wedding reception or party needs, along with decorations, tents, tables, chairs, linens, centerpieces, and more. View their equipment rentals online, or call (859) 252-0408 to reserve your party rentals today.