Having a permanent house generatoris a huge lifesaver in case a power outage occurs. Imagine being able to run all of your essential appliances without having to make a compromise. That’s why most homeowners choose to invest in a permanent home generator for their comfort and peace of mind.
But with so many options available, how can you make sure that the generator you choose is sufficient for your needs? Here’s a quick guide on choosing a home standby generator to help you make an informed purchase.
1. Choose The Right Generator Size
The first thing you need to do when searching for a whole house generator is to determine how much power you’ll need in the event of a power outage.
Different generators will have different power outputs rated in kilowatts (kW) which dictates the generator’s power output. You can determine the correct generator size by following these steps:
Understand Your Power Needs
Start by identifying the appliances and systems you want to keep running during a power outage. List items like the refrigerator, lights, heating or cooling systems, and any medical equipment.
Knowing what you want to power helps in calculating the total wattage you need.
Calculate the Total Wattage
Find the wattage requirements for each appliance. Check the label or user manual for running and starting (surge) watts, especially for appliances with motors. Sum up the wattage for all items you plan to use.
Apply the Formula
Use this simple formula to find the total wattage needed:
Total Wattage = Running Watts + Surge Watts
For instance, if your refrigerator needs 600 running watts and 1,200 surge watts, and your furnace uses 800 running watts and 1,600 surge watts, with lights and electronics adding up to 400 running watts, the calculation will look something like this:
- Refrigerator: 600 running watts + 1,200 surge watts
- Furnace: 800 running watts + 1,600 surge watts
- Lights and electronics: 400 running watts
Add the running watts:
600 + 800 + 400 = 1,800 running watts
Add the highest surge wattage:
1,200 + 1,600 = 2,800 surge watts
Pick the Generator That Fits Your Power Requirements
Select a backup generator with a running wattage that exceeds your total running watts and a surge wattage rating that covers your highest surge wattage.
In the example above, a generator with at least 1,800 running watts and 2,800 surge watts will meet your needs. This approach guarantees you have enough power during an outage.
2. Determine Which Fuel Source is Right For Your House Generator
Home standby generators run on a variety of fuel sources like natural gas, propane, and diesel. Solar-powered generators are also available for when you want to go eco-friendly with backup power.
Natural Gas
Natural gas offers a reliable fuel source if your home is connected to a gas line. This option provides a continuous supply of fuel which is important if you want to power your entire house for long periods.
The cost of running a natural gas generator often stays lower, and it produces fewer emissions compared to other fuel types.
However, disruptions in the gas supply during natural disasters could leave your generator without fuel.
Propane
Propane serves as a dependable alternative for homes without natural gas access. Large storage tanks hold the propane, which requires occasional refilling.
Propane burns cleaner than diesel and gasoline, making it a greener choice. It also stores well for long periods without degrading.
Keep in mind the price of propane can vary and the need for frequent refills might become a concern during extended outages.
Diesel
Diesel fuel stands out for its energy efficiency and long shelf life. Diesel generators handle larger power loads and generally run more fuel-efficiently than gasoline models.
The downside is they tend to be noisier and emit more pollutants. Maintenance needs also increase with diesel engines, and storing large amounts of diesel fuel can present challenges.
Solar Generators
Solar generators offer a renewable energy solution, tapping into sunlight to power your home. These generators run quietly and produce zero emissions, which appeals to environmentally conscious homeowners.
However, solar power depends on sunlight availability, so cloudy days could impact performance. The upfront costs are higher, but savings on fuel and maintenance over time can balance that out.
3. Consider the Features of the Generator
Whole house generators are a significant investment, so it’s a good idea to research which features are important for your needs when the power goes out. At the very least, a good home generator should have these following features:
Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
An Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) plays an important role in providing uninterrupted power during an outage. Its job is to transfer electrical power between sources (i.e. utility power to generator power) to keep the lights on in your home.
- Seamless power transition: The automatic power transfer switch detects a power outage and automatically switches the generator on, so your home stays powered without any manual intervention.
- Safety features: A reliable ATS prevents backfeeding, which keeps utility workers safe while they repair power lines.
Noise Levels
Generator noise can disrupt daily life and disturb your neighborhood, so it’s important to consider this factor.
- Quiet operation: Look for a generator designed for quiet operation that won’t interfere with your household activities or irritate your neighbors.
- Noise-reducing features: Some generators include built-in mufflers or sound-dampening enclosures to further minimize noise.
Maintenance and Durability
Durability and ease of maintenance are crucial when investing in a generator, so make sure the generator you choose is high-quality and is built by a reputable manufacturer.
- Corrosion-resistant materials: Choose a generator made with materials that resist rust and wear, especially if it will be installed outdoors.
- Maintenance features: Select a generator that offers easy access to components for routine maintenance, along with clear indicators for service needs.
Remote Monitoring and Controls
Modern generators often include technology that allows you to monitor and control the unit from a distance. Look for features like:
- Remote monitoring: Some models offer smartphone apps or web interfaces that let you check the generator’s status and receive alerts.
- Remote start: The ability to start and stop the generator remotely adds convenience, especially during severe weather.
4. Safety and Installation
Installing a permanent house generator requires careful attention to safety. These machines produce large amounts of electricity, which can be dangerous if not handled properly. Here’s what you need to know:
Professional Installation and Code Compliance
Professional installation of a permanent house generator is not just a recommendation but a necessity. Local building codes often have strict requirements for the installation process. These codes exist to protect your home from potential fire hazards and other dangers.
A licensed electrician will handle the electrical connections and make sure the generator integrates smoothly with your home’s electrical system.
Regular Maintenance and Testing
Once the generator is installed, regular maintenance keeps it in good working condition. Testing the generator under load once a month ensures that it starts up and runs correctly. Checking the oil, coolant levels, and battery condition is also necessary to keep the generator ready for any emergency.
Schedule an annual inspection with a qualified technician to detect and address any potential issues. Taking these steps provides peace of mind, knowing that the generator will function as expected during a power outage.
Install Your Permanent House Generator Today With W. Danley Electrical
Are you in search of the right generator for your home? If so, W. Danley Electrical is here to help. We carry a broad range of Generac-branded generators that are proven and tested to be one of the best manufacturers of permanent house generators.
Our licensed electricians are more than qualified to install your new generator to ensure your safety and peace of mind during power outages. To learn more about our services, give us a call at (732) 432-0164.
FAQ About Permanent House Generator
Can I use a portable generator instead of a permanent house generator to power my home?
You can only use portable generators to power a couple of appliances at once. If you want to power your entire home, a home standby generator is a better investment.
How much does a permanent house generator cost?
The average cost of a permanent house generator in the USA typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. This price includes the generator itself, professional installation, and any necessary permits.
How long can a permanent house generator run?
It depends on its fuel supply and the generator’s design. Generators connected to natural gas can run indefinitely as long as there’s no disruption in the gas supply. Propane and diesel generators are limited by the size of their fuel tanks.
