From the Electrical Elite (a Generac Authorized Dealer) point of view, a backup generator is an important device for your home that kicks in during power outages to provide electricity. It’s not just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for keeping you safe and comfortable when unexpected events occur. For example, during a severe storm or when the power grid fails, a backup generator ensures that crucial systems like heating, cooling, and refrigeration continue to work.
Choosing the right home backup generator is key to having a dependable power source during emergencies. It involves understanding your specific requirements and finding a generator that can meet them. This way, even if other houses are in the dark, yours can stay brightly lit.
Here are the main types of backup generators available:
- Portable Generators: These are designed for temporary power needs and can be fueled by gasoline, natural gas and propane.
- Standby Generators: Installed permanently, these generators automatically supply power to your entire home when they detect an outage. They typically run on natural gas, propane and diesel fuel.
Now that you know what backup generators can do, let’s explore further and figure out which one is the best fit for your household.
Types of Backup Generators
Backup generators come in two primary types: portable and standby, each serving different needs and scenarios.
Portable Generators
Portable generators provide a quick and flexible power supply for various appliances or activities, especially in outdoor settings or during short-term power outages. You can choose from:
- Gasoline-powered models
- Propane-fueled units
- Natural Gas-driven options
Advantages of Portable Generators:
- Versatility: Easily moved and used in a variety of locations.
- Convenience: Quick to set up and start in an emergency.
Disadvantages of Portable Generators:
- Limited Capacity: Suitable for powering only a few appliances at a time.
- Manual Operation: Requires manual refueling and starting during use.
Standby Generators
Standby generators are robust systems designed to automatically provide power to an entire house when the main power grid fails. They typically integrate into the home’s electrical system and are fueled by:
- Natural gas lines
- Propane tanks
- Diesel fuel tanks
Benefits of Standby Generators:
- Automatic Activation: They start on their own when the power goes out, ensuring uninterrupted electricity.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Capable of running essential household systems and appliances simultaneously.
Drawbacks of Standby Generators:
- Higher Initial Investment: The purchase price and installation costs are significantly higher compared to portable options.
- Installation Space: They require a permanent location outside your home.
Each generator type addresses different needs, from temporary, movable energy solutions to robust, full-house coverage. Assessing these options brings you closer to determining which backup generator aligns with your specific requirements.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Backup Generator
When selecting a suitable backup generator for your home, the following factors are essential considerations:
- Power Outages
The frequency and duration of power outages in your area play a pivotal role. If you experience frequent or long-lasting outages, investing in a reliable and more powerful standby generator may be necessary. Conversely, if blackouts are rare or short-lived, a portable generator might suffice. - Wattage Calculation
Estimating your power needs is crucial to determine the right wattage capacity for your backup generator. To do this:
List all the appliances and devices you intend to power.
Note their starting watts (the extra power needed to start up) and running watts (the continuous power required).
Add up these values to find your total power requirement. This ensures you select a generator that can handle the initial surge and maintain supply without overloading. - Fuel Supply Availability
Your choice may also depend on fuel sources available to you:
Propane tanks are convenient for portable generators but require storage space and easy access for refueling.
Natural gas lines offer uninterrupted supply for standby generators, assuming they are accessible in your location.
Diesel storage is another option, especially for larger capacity generators; however, it involves planning for safe fuel storage and access for refueling. - Ease of Use and Maintenance
Evaluate generators for user-friendliness — simple control panels and clear instructions enhance the user experience. Also consider maintenance requirements; some models feature self-diagnostic capabilities and easy-access panels for routine checks.
By thoroughly assessing these factors, you ensure that the backup generator you choose aligns with your specific needs and circumstances.
Sizing and Installation Considerations
When choosing a backup generator, it’s important to look beyond the initial price tag. There are other factors that will impact your overall expenses in the long run. Here are some key things to consider:
Cost Factors
These are the main factors that can affect how much you’ll spend on a backup generator:
- Size: Larger generators usually cost more upfront, but they may actually help you save money in the long term. That’s because they’re capable of powering your entire home more efficiently during extended outages.
- Features: Some generators come with extra features like remote monitoring or quiet operation. While these can be nice to have, they also tend to drive up the price. So think about whether or not you really need them.
- Fuel Efficiency: Generators that use fuel more efficiently can help lower your ongoing costs, especially if you experience frequent or long-lasting outages.
Why Proper Sizing is Crucial
Getting the right size generator is absolutely essential for optimal performance. If you end up with one that’s too small, it won’t be able to meet your power needs and could potentially fail when you need it most. On the flip side, an oversized generator can lead to unnecessary expenses and efficiency losses.
To ensure proper sizing, here’s what you should do:
- Determine Your Power Requirements: Make a list of all the essential appliances and systems in your home that you would want to power during an outage. Then, find out their wattage ratings (you can usually find this information on their labels or in their user manuals).
- Factor in Starting Watts: Keep in mind that some appliances and equipment require extra power to start up (e.g., refrigerators or air conditioners). This initial surge of electricity is known as “starting watts,” and it’s typically higher than the amount of power needed to keep things running smoothly (“running watts”). So be sure to account for this when doing your calculations.
The Importance of Professional Installation
When it comes to installing backup generators, especially standby models that are meant to kick in automatically during outages, it’s best to leave the job to the experts. Here’s why:
- Safety: Dealing with electricity can be dangerous, especially if you don’t have the right knowledge or experience. By hiring a certified electrician, you can minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
- Code Compliance: Electrical work is subject to certain codes and regulations set by local authorities. Failure to adhere to these rules could result in fines or other penalties. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and will make sure everything is done correctly.
- Integration: A backup generator needs to be properly integrated with your home’s existing electrical system in order to function smoothly. This involves things like connecting it to the main circuit breaker panel and installing any necessary transfer switches. Again, it’s a task that should only be handled by someone with the right expertise.
- Reliability: Last but not least, professional installation gives you peace of mind knowing that your generator has been set up correctly. You can trust that it will work reliably whenever an outage occurs.
By taking all these factors into account, you’ll be in a much better position to choose a backup generator that strikes the right balance between affordability and performance.
Choosing the Right Fuel Source for Your Backup Generator
Selecting the most suitable fuel source for your backup generator is an essential part of the decision-making process. The choice of fuel can significantly impact operational costs, ease of use, and overall performance of your unit. Two prevalent options to consider are propane and natural gas.
Propane-Powered Generators
Propane is a popular fuel choice for many homeowners due to its long shelf life and widespread availability. Propane-powered backup generators are known for their reliability and cleaner-burning properties compared with gasoline or diesel generators.
Pros:
- Propane has an indefinite shelf life, meaning it won’t degrade over time.
- It burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, reducing engine wear.
Cons:
- Propane tanks require adequate storage space, tank recertification and must be refilled periodically.
- Propane prices can fluctuate and may become expensive during high-demand periods.
Natural Gas-Powered Generators
Another option to consider is connecting your backup generator directly to your home’s natural gas supply. This setup ensures a continuous fuel source, eliminating the need for regular refills or storage of fuel.
Pros:
- Natural gas lines offer an uninterrupted fuel supply.
- It’s usually more cost-effective than bottled gases.
Cons:
- You’ll need a professional installation to connect to your home’s natural gas line.
- Natural gas generators may not function during certain types of power outages, such as those caused by earthquakes that disrupt the gas supply.
The choice between propane and natural gas will largely depend on your individual circumstances, including local availability, storage possibilities, and budget considerations. To make an informed decision, it’s wise to compare these options based on your specific needs.
Exploring Alternative Backup Power Solutions
Solar Generators
Aiming for a greener and more sustainable choice? Solar generators may just be the solution for you. These generators harness the power of the sun, transforming it into electricity. One of their standout benefits are silent operation, providing power without the noise disruption commonly associated with traditional generators.
Reliance on fossil fuels is significantly reduced with solar generators, presenting an eco-friendly backup power alternative. The abundance of sunlight makes solar energy virtually limitless and renewable, providing a long-term solution to your power needs.
However, bear in mind that their efficiency is largely dependent on weather conditions. Therefore, they might not be suitable for regions with limited sunlight or during seasons with shorter daylight hours.
Home Backup Batteries
On the other hand, home backup batteries are another noteworthy option. These energy storage systems, such as lithium-ion batteries, provide seamless transition during outages. They store excess power and supply it when there’s an interruption in your main power source.
A key advantage of these batteries is their ability to maximize self-consumption of solar energy. If you already have solar panels installed at home, these batteries can store excess solar power produced during the day for use at night or during cloudy days.
Both solar generators and home backup batteries offer promising alternatives to traditional generators. As technology continues to evolve, these options become increasingly viable for homeowners seeking reliable and environmentally friendly backup power solutions.
Mitigating Safety Risks Associated with Backup Generators
One major safety concern when using backup generators is the carbon monoxide poisoning risk from generator exhaust. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in large amounts. It’s essential to be aware of this silent danger and take appropriate precautions.
Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Backup generators produce carbon monoxide during operation. Exposure to high levels of this gas can lead to headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and even death in severe cases. It’s often referred to as the “silent killer” because it cannot be seen or smelled.
Ensuring Adequate Ventilation
To mitigate the carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazard risks from generator exhaust, you need to ensure proper ventilation. Generators should always be placed outdoors and never inside your home or garage. It’s crucial to keep them:
- At least 5 feet away from windows, doors, and vent openings.
- At least 1.5 feet on backside of generator away from your home or any structure
- At least 3 feet clearance on the left, right sides and the front of generator
- At least 3 feet clearance from combustible materials like shrubs, plants or fences
- Do not install a generator under a covered or enclosed deck or porch area
By adhering to these safety measures, you can prevent carbon monoxide build-up and protect your family from potential health hazards when using a backup generator.
Conclusion
Making an informed decision when choosing the right backup generator and through Generac Authorized Dealer like Electrical Elite for your home is crucial. The selection process should begin by assessing your specific power needs, taking into account the size of your home, essential appliances, and frequency of power outages.
Remember that this is not a solo task. Consulting with experts – such as electricians or generator dealers – can provide valuable insights to help you navigate the different options in the market, from portable and standby generators to alternative solutions like solar generators and home backup batteries.
Backup generators indeed offer peace of mind during power outages. Yet, they are only one piece of a larger preparedness puzzle. To ensure comprehensive protection against unexpected blackouts:
- Invest in energy-efficient home upgrades to reduce overall power requirements.
- Maintain an emergency kit equipped with flashlights, batteries, and other essentials.
- Regularly test and maintain your backup generator to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
Safety should remain paramount at all times. From proper installation and ventilation to responsible usage – every step counts towards keeping your household safe while using a backup generator.
This guide has provided you with a thorough understanding of the key considerations involved in choosing a backup generator. Armed with this knowledge, you’re now well-equipped to make an informed decision that best suits your needs and ensures reliable power supply for your home during outages.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is a backup generator and why is it essential for every home?
A backup generator is a device that provides emergency power during outages by converting fuel into electricity. It is essential for every home to ensure continuous power supply for critical appliances, comfort, and safety during unexpected blackouts.
Why is it important to choose the right backup generator?
Choosing the right backup generator is crucial to ensure reliable power supply during outages. A well-suited generator can meet the specific power needs of the house and provide seamless transition during emergencies.
What are the different types of backup generators available in the market?
The market offers portable generators, which function as temporary power solutions for specific appliances or activities, and standby generators, designed to provide continuous backup power to the entire house. Each type has its own advantages and limitations.
How do portable generators function and what are their advantages and disadvantages?
Portable generators function as temporary power solutions for specific appliances or activities, running on different types of fuel such as gasoline, propane, or diesel. They offer versatility but have limited capacity, making them suitable for targeted use rather than whole-house backup.
What are standby generators and what are their benefits and drawbacks?
Standby generators are designed to provide continuous backup power to the entire house. They are usually connected to the home’s electrical system and can be powered by natural gas or propane. While they offer automatic activation during outages, they come with a higher installation cost.
Why is considering the frequency and duration of power outages in your area crucial when choosing a backup generator?
Considering the frequency and duration of power outages in your area is crucial when choosing a backup generator as it helps determine the level of reliability needed from the generator to maintain comfort and safety during emergencies.