Whether you’re planning to go camping or a remote area, it’s always essential to ensure a power supply. Proper and uninterrupted power supply is crucial to run all necessary electronic devices, light, fans, computers, AC, heater, and many more.
A generator is a reliable way to maintain an independent power supply according to your needs. Well, if you’re wondering is it safe to run a computer on a generator or not, the answer is BIG YES, it’s safe.
However, not all generators are safe for computers as the quality varies according to the computer brand. Learn what type of generators is ideal for computers and how to make a generator safe for computers through this article.
Is It Safe To Run A Computer On A Generator?
Lights, fans, AC, heaters are not the only essential devices you need to carry while camping. Among many devices, sometimes you may also need to carry your computer while on the trip with your RV, camper, or even car.
Well, the fact is, if you have a pop-up camper, you must know that you can easily use a portable generator for pop up camper. A portable generator is an excellent choice from pop-up camper to any type of camper to ensure an uninterrupted power supply anywhere.
Moreover, whether the generator is safe to use for sensitive electrical devices such as computers depends on various aspects. You just have to know the appropriate way to use a portable generator to run sensitive devices like a computer.
To learn how to use a computer with a portable generator without causing problems on your computer, follow the section below-
1. Check out the User Guide:
First of all, try to read all the guidance provided by your generator manufacturer. Check out the wattage before plugging a computer with it. Most of them a 3000 watt to 3500 watts is enough powerful generator if you wish to take a generator for camping. And computers require 250-300 watt for starting and running.
2. Place the Generator Appropriately:
Never place your generator in an enclosed space and put a generator in an area with proper ventilation. Otherwise, the generator’s smoke can harm you, and at the same time, the noises will make your camping annoying. It’s a good idea to set a computer 10-15 feet away from your home or tent.
3. Check the Fuel Level:
After setting the generator appropriately, now check the fuel level of your generator. Be sure that your generator has enough fuel to run your computer and devices without any issues. Refuel the generator if necessary but never start or use the generator with a low fuel level.
4. Double-Check the Air Filter:
Double-check your generator air filter as it helps to keep dirt and particles away from the engine. Always clean the air filter if it’s clogged and ensure the air filter is clean and properly maintained.
5. Start the Generator:
Once you’ve checked the fuel and air filter, it’s time to start the generator. Before starting the generator, make sure you flip the breaker off and activate the fuel valve. Now fire up the generator and wait for one or two minutes to allow the generator to warm up.
6. Plug Your Electric Devices:
After warming up the generator, it’s time to connect the generator with your desired devices. Although most of the generator allows direct connection, you can use an extension cord to connect your computer and other devices.
What Type Of Generator Is Ideal For Computer
Since computers come in different types and are manufactured by many companies, it’s tough to determine the ideal generator. However, by knowing how to choose the appropriate generator for a computer, you can select the best one. Follow the below steps to discover the generator selection guidance:
Power System
Determine what other devices you’ll use with a computer through the generator. Try to find out the exact amount of watts you’ll need and then buy a generator with the power of watts you need.
Also, consider its outlets before purchasing a generator to use on a computer or other sensitive device. Getting a generator with a GFCI protected outlet will be the best option.
The Type of Fuel
Fuel type is another essential thing you have to consider while choosing a generator for a computer. You can go for any fuel type, but getting a generator with affordable fuel types will be a good choice.
You can get a generator with a gas-fueled system which will be relatively less heavy than other generators. However, if you want to use the generator with other appliances, including a computer, you should go for a diesel generator.
Starting Method
Starting method can be another essential aspect you need to give your attention to. You’ll find a generator with a pulling coil system and an ignition starting method. And when it’s about the starting method, you have to prioritize your preference. If you’re getting a generator only for a computer, getting one with an ignition starting point will be a good option.
Noise Level
Noise level is one thing that can directly contribute to your computer work. When you’re doing any computer-related task, it’s essential to have a quiet atmosphere. Therefore, you can get a generator with a silent feature to reduce noise issues.
How To Make A Generator More Safe For Computer
If you’re still concerned about using a laptop with generator power, try to make the generator safer. Many devices are available that will help protect your computer from the power ebbs and surges of your generator. Here we’ll discuss them, have a look-
Use a Surge Arrester
A surge from your generator can destroy or ruin the devices you’re running with your generator. And if you’re using a sensitive device like a computer, it’s essential to save the device from voltage spikes and surges.
In that case, a surge arrester can be very helpful, and it’ll absorb the surge, which is handy to prevent all types of impacts. In short, the surge arrester will work as a safeguard for your computer while using it with a generator.
Use a Surge Protector
Whether you are using a generator or mains power, using a surge protector would be a good idea. This protector will detect the excess voltage and redirect it, which will keep the sensitive electric device safe.
Use a Power Line Conditioner
Using a power line conditioner can also be a reliable way to make your generator safer for using a computer. This power line conditioner will eliminate issues like electromagnetic interferences, overvoltages, radio frequency interferences, power surges, and others.
Many other devices are available to make your computer safe while using it with a generator. However, Surge Arrester, Surge Protector, and power line conditioner will be good enough to protect your computer from any types of impacts.
Final Verdict
No matter if you’re using a portable or any other type of generator, it can help you in a lot of ways. A generator can let you run all your desired electronic devices in a remote area. If you’re planning for camping or a business trip with your RV or any vehicle, generators can be a lifesaver.
However, when it comes to using a computer, you may wonder whether is it safe to run a computer on a generator or not. Basically, it’s safe to use a computer with a generator, and by following this article, you can make your computer safer. And the best thing you can do is choose an ideal generator for a computer to use your computer without worrying about any impact.
