Joker3092 said:
Hey guys figued you could me out here, im considering buying a small generator for my pellet stove. Just something small in the 2000 or 3000 running watt range. I have been doing some reading and have read that a generator may give off surges and could fry the control board??? Is this even possible??? Wouldn't a good surge protector protect the stove from the power surges??? Also what is the typical running watts of a pellet stove?? I would also like to be able to have a few lights on in addition to the stove.
Others have pointed out some good info.
A few years ago, I measured my P61A, and on start up it drew about 375W (ignitor on), and about 150W when running. YMMV.
Surge protectors are always a good idea. Buying a decent generator will also help.
For some general thoughts on generators, this thread
https://www.hearth.com/talk/threads/45926/
had this posted in it
Before buying a generator. perhaps you should do some thinking about what you are going to use it for and how you are going to connect it.
If you just wish to power a pellet stove, a small generator will suffice. If you wish to ride out a 2 or 3 day power outage, and run the stove, fridge, well pump, freezer, etc., you may need a larger unit (and a large amount of stored fuel!).
Gas is handy for most of us, but does not store well. Diesel keeps longer. but the generators cost more. NG may also be an option for you, or propane.
How often does the power go out for long periods where you live? Are you planning for the “storm of the century” or just looking to ride out “typical” conditions? To handle a week requires a much larger budget than to cover a 1 - 2 day outage.
What is the load size? Do you want to run everything (including the big screen TV), or would a fridge and a couple of CF light bulbs be enough? Keep in mind the start up current draw of motors (e.g. well pump).
How will you connect the generator to the load? This is very critical for your safety (and the safety of others). A proper transfer switch is required for powering hard wired appliances, and is very safe and convient. Extensions cords are fine for smaller loads, but more work to hook up.
Will you have fuel for your generator? How much? How long can you store it for? Where will you store it?
Where will you run the generator? It has to be outside (do not run in an attached garage!). Do you have a bit of shelter for it (keep it out of the rain/snow)? Some generators do not like to be run in cold weather (mine states under 40F, carb icing can occur unless you provide a cold weather shelter). Also, they can be very noisy.
Whatever you do get, be sure to order some extra filters for it (you may need to change them during a power outage).
If you do go gas, then the smallest generator will require the least amount of fuel (a good thing if gas is scarce!).
Cheers!