When considering a whole house standby generator, there are a number of factors that you should take into account before making a decision.
These include the size and power needs of your home, the reliability and safety of the generator, and the cost of the generator and installation.
In this article, we’ll discuss what you should know before considering a whole house standby generator, so you can make an informed decision that best suits the needs of your home and your family.
Size and Power Needed For Generators
The first thing to consider when looking at whole house standby generators is the size and power needs of your home. These generators come in a variety of sizes and are capable of powering different loads. The size of the generator that you need will depend on the number of appliances and systems in your home that you want to keep running during a power outage. Some common items that homeowners want to keep running include lights, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning, and heating systems. Be sure to assess the power needs of your home and make sure the generator you choose will meet those needs.
Generator Safety And Reliability
Another important factor to consider when looking at whole house standby generators is the reliability and safety of the generator. Make sure the generator you choose is of good quality and comes from a reputable manufacturer. Look for features like automatic shut-offs in case of carbon monoxide leaks, automatic transfer switches and easy maintenance schedule. This will ensure that the generator is safe to use and will provide a reliable source of power during an outage. It’s also important to note that whole house standby generators should be installed outside of the house to avoid any dangerous emissions and to make sure the generator is installed correctly.
Determine The Cost Of Generator and Installation
In addition to the size and power needs of your home, you’ll also want to consider the cost of the generator and installation. Whole house standby generators can be quite expensive, and the cost will depend on the size of the generator, the brand, and the company you choose to install it. Keep in mind that installation costs can vary widely, so it’s important to get multiple quotes from different companies to find the best deal. You can also check if there are any incentives from local power companies or state that can help you offset the cost.
What Fuel Source Does Your Generator Need?
Another important factor to consider before purchasing a whole house standby generator is the fuel source. There are two main types of generators: those that run on natural gas and those that run on propane. Each type of fuel has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For example, natural gas is cheaper and more widely available, but it requires a direct connection to your home’s gas line. Propane, on the other hand, is more portable and doesn’t require a direct connection, but it can be more expensive. Consider which fuel source would be the most convenient and cost-effective for your home before making a decision.
Long Term Maintenance Of Your Generator
Finally, it’s important to think about the long-term maintenance of your generator. Whole house standby generators require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to run smoothly. This includes things like regular oil changes, filter replacements and maintenance checkups. Make sure to choose a generator with easy maintenance schedule and that you understand the maintenance schedule before purchasing.
It’s important to consider the size and power needs of your home, the reliability and safety of the generator, the cost of the generator and installation, the fuel source, and the long-term maintenance of the generator.
Assessing these factors will help you make an informed decision that best suits the needs of your home and your family. Be sure to research and compare different generators and installation companies before making a final decision. And always make sure to purchase from a reputable company and to have professional installation done for the safety and longevity of the generator.