F&F usually come to me and
borrow my stuff, for some reason when i ask for something they are never around...
Thanks for the dummy version I am technically challenged and was average HS student - not valedictorian. Wife's family designs and prints stuff using photoshop and Epson 9890 printer(s) but usually only one at a time. When Hurricane season is in its prime (Aug-Oct) it's when their business is at its peak for Christmas pre-orders.
The part about the welder is due to my prepper mentality and want ability to build/secure stuff just in case.
Reason about the THD is from reading several reviews and comments about damaging the computers and electronics. Would a Furman line output conditioner help or is that not related? I have one for my home stereo and projector that isn't used much. Thx
Is this the one:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Briggs-...h-Briggs-and-Stratton-Engine-030675/301871650
So then is it better to get
2 separate gennys?
1. Excellent/Honda quality 1,000-2,000 watt inverter model for the computer (700w), 27" 4k monitor (?W), Epson printer (180w) while printing, plus a 32" lcd tv (?W) connected to window antenna.
2. Average/cheaper quality 6,000 watt (with less bells and whistles i.e. electric start) for the garage 220v tools but also use it to run the fridge, freezer, toaster oven, portable a/c etc? thx
The best protection you can do for your computers (particularly during hurricane season) is to add a whole house surge suppressor (SPD), and to make sure your panels are properly grounded. Surges break stuff indiscriminately.
A line conditioner filters high frequency noise. Useful to clean up analog video or audio signals, but not related to harmonic distortion, which for the most part will be at 180 and 300 hz.
Most modern computer equipment doesn't care that much about harmonics or power quality in general. Look at your power supply sticker. Lots of stuff today will state 100-250V 50/60hz. Power supplies are often made to work on any power grid in the world with just a change of the plug, and this sort of stuff will work with any generator.
The exception to this is electronics designed by companies that have no competence in the field. I've heard reports of electronics in high efficiency boilers for example being damaged by non-inverter generator power. Other times, stuff won't work on generator, but will be fine when utility returns. I used to have a TV like that.
If you have your computer plugged into a UPS, THAT might have problems with your generator. I've seen a lot of UPS that will switch to battery when plugged into a generator, because of the voltage harmonics.
So, if you don't mind restarting your computer when you start (and stop) the generator, a computer shouldn't be a worry.
Fridges and toasters draw a lot of power you need to take into consideration, but they're not "bad". A microwave oven however is VERY bad. That will create all sorts of power noise. I'd be concerned with any inverter air conditioners too (most mini-splits today). Basically, variable speed AC motors that are inverter driven cause a lot of harmonic noise.
On another note, I HIGHLY doubt that computer actually draws 700W. I use computers at work that use that much power. They're not something you'd find in most homes. Most likely, it's using only a fraction of that.
As for electrical noise from the welder, if you're in SHTF mode, and NEED to weld something right now, maybe just unplug the computer. But in any case, you won't be welding much off a 2000W inverter generator. Unless you decide that this is the time to invest in some oxy-acetylene... Because, in the spirit of this site, I am required to suggest buying more tools.
Two would also give flexibility to have something portable. All a matter of how often you need it. I have a big, loud 240v generator that runs my whole house, but it weighs 200+ lbs. if something changed and I needed a small, quiet one, a 2kw inverter would be nice to have for sure
Pros of a small inverter:
More flexibility, and portability. Also, fuel savings. Potentially quieter. Easier to put away when you're done with it.
Cons:
Shorter run time, unless you get an extended run-time kit that uses an external tank. Also these tiny engines need more frequent oil changes.
