What Size Portable Generator do I need?

[wdk450]

I did the same thing since we do not boondock-we only use it for emergencies or just to cool the unit at a roadside lunch. I think the DB's are 68 on the high side not much higher than Honda's high side.http://www.tractorsupply.com/en/store/champion-power-equipmenttrade%3B-3500w-4000w-portable-generator

Just remember a 3db increase in measured sound level is a DOUBLING in human perceived sound level. The db power scale is logarithmic.

 

[boatto5er]

Just for grins, here's some relative numbers:

• Near total silence - 0 dB
• A whisper - 15 dB
• Normal conversation - 60 dB
• A lawnmower - 90 dB
• A car horn - 110 dB
• A rock concert or a jet engine - 120 dB
• A gunshot or firecracker - 140 dB

You know from your own experience that distance affects the intensity of sound -- if you are far away, the power is greatly diminished. All of the ratings above are taken while standing near the sound.
Any sound above 85 dB can cause hearing loss, and the loss is related both to the power of the sound as well as the length of exposure. You know that you are listening to an 85-dB sound if you have to raise your voice to be heard by somebody else. Eight hours of 90-dB sound can cause damage to your ears; any exposure to 140-dB sound causes immediate damage (and causes actual pain).

 

[mobilcastle]

I use my 4K Champion quite often for power at my storage lot. It gives adequate 30amp power for just about everything I need, including running one AC unit in the summer. I do have to turn my EMS off because I get (I believe - can't remember which code for sure) an "Open Ground" indicator.

I just installed an EMS in the basement so I will have to check out the reading when I plug it in-I think somewhere I read the unit should be grounded?