How do I start a portable generator?

Many portable generators come with <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Recoil-Start/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ1z1cr53?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">recoil starts</a>, which require a manual pull to activate the engine. Others offer <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Electric-Switch/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ1z1cr0e?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">electric starts</a>, allowing you to turn a key or push a button. For even more convenience, <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Remote/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ1z1cr0z?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">remote start models</a> will enable you to start your generator from a distance.

What size portable generator do I need?

You'll want to consider the wattage of the appliances you want to power and factor in a safety margin. For basic needs like lighting and a refrigerator, a 2,000-3,000-watt generator is usually sufficient.

What are some popular brands of portable generators?

Some popular brands known for high-quality portable generators include <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Pulsar/Gasoline/N-5yc1vZbx9nZfyrZ1z17kdb?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">Pulsar</a>, <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Generac/Gasoline/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ4phZ1z17kdb?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">Generac</a>, and <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Outdoors-Outdoor-Power-Equipment-Generators-Portable-Generators/Honda/Gasoline/N-5yc1vZbx9nZ3leZ1z17kdb?emt=plpfaq_2412_portablegenerators" style="text-decoration: underline;">Honda</a>.