Tips for Picking a Standby Generator to Power Your Home

Power failures can be downright dangerous if not prepared for. Everyone will also agree that they are inconvenient. Disconnection of all the house appliances from power leads to agitation. Imagine your air conditioner or heater not running for many hours on end. Such disruptions have evoked the need for emergency power.

The invention of generators has rescued this situation. It saves many from the stress of lengthy blackouts. While portable ones play the role good enough, they are limiting. Standby generators, however, offer a steadfast solution to extended outages.

They are permanently installed on a concrete pad within your compound and depend on reserved energy to run. Best of all, some can provide uninterrupted power lasting even to days. They are connected to your electrical panel, such that it automatically powers the house in case of an outage. Home generators at BestGenerator.org highlight the specs that you should always consider before getting one. Here are tips to guide you as you select a standby generator for your home:

1. Power Requirements

This factor has to be the most significant decision you make. You need to calculate the total wattage that you need your generator to power when there is an outage. It is advisable to rank the appliances and lights that you will need to be powered. Consider the essentials that when ignored, would cause havoc.

After identifying the appliances and lights, calculate their total watt. It’s advisable to consider a generator with 15%-20% more power capacity than your total. This extra allows you to use the generator without risking an overload.

2. State Laws and Regulations

Before buying or initiating the installation process, it is paramount to confirm with the state laws or regulations: specifically, those that exist about stationary generators. It is unfortunate to have to deal with complaints from neighbors or to have your generator moved and re-installed at another location. Such issues will put a dent to your pocket as you incur additional charges.

The generator you choose to buy should follow the requirements. Before using the generator, you also need an inspection that clears you for use. Going through the National Electric Code (NEC) should save you a lot of trouble. You should also confirm the taxes laws. They guide on taxes that arise from the permanent installation of the generator.

3. Fuel Compatibility and Supply

Most generators run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. The availability of fuel influences your choice. It is unwise to choose a generator that runs on fuel that will cost more to access. The fuel should be available to avoid delays during emergencies.

Compatibility of the fuel to the model should be clear from the beginning. All manufacturers include this directive on their models. When hesitant, you can refer to the buyer’s guide/manual.

4. Installation Pad

A standby generator may or may not need an installation pad. In case it needs one, you need to identify where you will place it. Following the required guidelines, the concrete pad has to be placed strategically. It should be away from the house and the exhaust pipes facing away from any doors or windows.

5. Noise Levels

Noise can cause dispute among the surrounding neighbors. It is sad to receive a legal warning that prohibits the use of your generator due to noise, yet you have invested lots of resources to own and install it.

Thus, consider buying less noisy generators. If you live on your farm with hardly any neighbors close by, then the loud ones won't be much of a bother. Nevertheless, you have to install it away from your house for your peace of mind.

6. Budget

Budget setting is paramount when you are planning to go shopping. It forbids you from overspending your resources. It also provides a range of what you should be looking out for. It is important to note that not all expensive generators guarantee the best quality. Affordable ones could as well play the purpose of serving your household.

7. Accessories Availability

Some generators need you to buy complementary accessories. The additions could be a battery, a warming kit, or a transfer switch. The accessories should be available and affordable.

If it requires too many accessories, feel free to disqualify it. These accessories will become an expensive maintenance burden. There are so many models to pick from that need little to no accessories.

8. Service Centers

Every equipment or appliance requires frequent servicing. It is ideal to have a physical service center at reasonable reach. They should be well equipped to handle any repairs or maintenance when need be.

The importance of standby generators should be upheld more so if your area experiences extended outages. They are a valuable investment during those frequent power losses. They tend to be pricey compared to other generators. Thus, you have to ensure you make an informed choice before getting one.