Power outage due to storm damage? Watch this emergency generator in action!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Unboxing the Dual Fuel Generator
• Setting Up the Generator
• Troubleshooting Starting Issues
• Connecting the Battery
• Starting the Generator
• Testing the Generator's Noise Level
• Powering Appliances with the Generator
• Pros and Cons of the Generator
• Conclusion

Unboxing and Starting Our Dual Fuel Generator

We recently experienced a power outage due to a storm, and in order to tackle the storm damage, we decided to unbox and start our new dual fuel generator. This generator, which we purchased at Costco, has the capability to run on both gasoline and propane, providing us with flexibility during emergencies. In this article, we will take you through the process of unboxing the generator, setting it up, troubleshooting any starting issues we encountered, and testing its noise level. We will also discuss the pros and cons of this generator based on our experience. So let's dive in and see how this generator helped us in managing the storm damage.

Unboxing the Dual Fuel Generator

The first step in getting our generator up and running was to unbox it. We had purchased a Furman 4000 watt generator, which we had not yet taken out of the box. As we unpacked it, we noticed that there was some assembly required. While it was not too difficult to put together, it did take a little time and effort. Once assembled, we were eager to try it out, but we realized that we needed to fill it with oil before starting it up.

Setting Up the Generator

After filling the generator with oil, we proceeded to connect it to a propane tank that we had on hand. The dual fuel feature of this generator was what initially attracted us to it, as we wanted the option to use propane as a fuel source during emergencies. However, we also had the option of using gasoline if needed. With the propane tank hooked up, we were ready to start the generator and power up our appliances to minimize the impact of the power outage.

Troubleshooting Starting Issues

To our surprise, the generator didn't start as easily as we expected. We checked the settings and realized that we had mistakenly set it to "two" instead of "start." After correcting this error, we tried again, but still had no luck. Frustrated, we decided to consult an instructional video to see if we were missing something. It turned out that we had forgotten to connect the battery, a crucial step in getting the generator running. Once we connected the battery, the generator sprang to life, and we were relieved to see that we had power.

Connecting the Battery

The battery connection had completely slipped our minds in the midst of the power outage chaos. We quickly located the battery and connected it to the generator. This simple step made all the difference and allowed us to start the generator successfully. It's essential to pay attention to all the components and connections when setting up a generator to ensure smooth operation.

Starting the Generator

With the battery properly connected, we made another attempt at starting the generator. This time, we were met with success. The generator started up smoothly, and we were impressed by its quiet operation. It ran smoothly in eco mode, significantly reducing noise levels. This feature would make it an excellent choice for camping or any situation where noise pollution needs to be minimized.

Testing the Generator's Noise Level

Curious about the noise level, we downloaded a decibel meter app on our phone and conducted a test. From a distance of about 15 feet, we recorded an average noise level of around 72 decibels. Although this reading was affected by the noise from neighboring generators, we could still conclude that the Furman 4000 watt generator was relatively quiet compared to others on the market. It would not cause significant disruptions, making it a suitable option for various scenarios.

Powering Appliances with the Generator

Once the generator was up and running, we connected our refrigerators and other essential appliances to it. The generator's capacity of 4000 watts was sufficient to power our refrigerators and a few additional items. It provided us with the peace of mind that our perishable food would not spoil during the power outage. The dual fuel feature was particularly useful, as we had the option to use propane instead of gasoline, which added convenience and extended the generator's runtime.

Pros and Cons of the Generator

Like any product, there are both pros and cons to consider. Let's explore some of the advantages and disadvantages of the Furman 4000 watt dual fuel generator based on our experience.

Pros:

1. Dual fuel capability offers flexibility and convenience.
2. Relatively quiet operation, especially in eco mode.
3. Sufficient power to run essential appliances during an outage.
4. Portable and easy to transport.
5. Durable build and reliable performance.

Cons:

1. Some assembly required during setup.
2. Initial starting issues can be frustrating if steps are missed.
3. Limited runtime on a single tank of fuel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Furman 4000 watt dual fuel generator proved to be a valuable asset during our storm damage control. Its dual fuel capability, quiet operation, and adequate power output were commendable features. Despite some initial starting issues and the need for assembly, we found the generator to be reliable in restoring power to our essential appliances. Whether for camping trips, emergencies, or as a backup power source, this generator offers convenience and peace of mind. With proper maintenance and care, we expect it to serve us well in the future.