A backup generator is a crucial investment for homeowners looking to ensure a reliable power supply during outages.

Whether it’s due to storms, grid failures, or other emergencies, a backup generator can keep your home running smoothly when the lights go out. This guide covers what a backup generator is, its benefits, key features to consider, and tips for choosing the right one for your home.

What is a Backup Generator?

A backup generator is a device that automatically or manually provides power to your home when the main electrical grid fails. These generators are typically powered by gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas, and they can supply electricity to essential circuits or even your entire home, depending on their size and capacity.

• There are two main types of backup generators:

  1. Portable Generators:

     • These are smaller, mobile units that can be moved as needed. They typically run on gasoline and are best suited for powering a few essential appliances or circuits.

  2. Standby Generators:

     • These are permanently installed units that automatically kick in when a power outage is detected. They are often powered by natural gas or propane and can provide power to the entire home or selected circuits, depending on the model.

Benefits of a Backup Generator

Continuous Power Supply:

A backup generator ensures that your home remains powered during an outage, allowing you to maintain normal operations. This is especially important for critical devices like medical equipment, refrigerators, and heating/cooling systems.

Increased Safety:

Power outages can create hazardous conditions, such as darkness or the inability to run essential home safety systems like security alarms or sump pumps. A backup generator mitigates these risks by keeping key systems operational

Convenience:

With a standby generator, you don’t have to worry about manually starting the generator during an outage. These generators are equipped with automatic transfer switches that detect power loss and activate the generator immediately.

Prevention of Property Damage

Prolonged power outages can lead to issues such as frozen pipes in winter or spoiled food in refrigerators and freezers. A backup generator can prevent such damage by ensuring that heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems continue to operate.

Increased Home Value

Installing a standby generator can increase your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers, as it provides an added layer of security and convenience

Key Features to Consider

Power Output (Wattage):

Determine your power needs by calculating the total wattage of the appliances and systems you want to keep running during an outage. Generators are rated by their power output in watts, with larger generators providing more power.

For essential circuits like lights, refrigerators, and a few outlets, a generator with a power output of 5,000 to 7,500 watts may suffice. For whole-house coverage, you may need a generator with 20,000 watts or more.

Fuel Type:

Gasoline: Common for portable generators but has a shorter shelf life and requires careful storage.

Propane: Burns cleaner and has a longer shelf life, but requires a larger storage space.

Natural Gas: Ideal for standby generators; it’s convenient because it connects directly to your home’s natural gas line, providing an uninterrupted fuel supply.

Diesel: More efficient and long-lasting, but diesel generators are typically larger and noisier.

Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS):

For standby generators, an ATS is crucial as it detects when the power goes out and automatically switches the power source to the generator. When grid power is restored, the ATS switches the power back and shuts down the generator.

Runtime:

Consider the generator’s runtime at 50% load, which indicates how long it can run on a full tank of fuel. For standby generators connected to natural gas lines, runtime is virtually unlimited, while portable generators will depend on the fuel tank size.

Noise Level:

Generators can be noisy, so it’s important to consider the decibel rating, especially if you live in a neighborhood with noise restrictions. Look for models with noise-reducing features or enclosures to minimize disruption.

Size and Portability:

For portable generators, consider the weight and whether it has wheels or handles for easy transportation. Standby generators are permanently installed, so portability is not a concern, but you should consider the space available for installation.

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring your generator’s reliability. Look for models that offer easy access for maintenance tasks like oil changes and air filter replacements. Some standby generators offer remote monitoring options to alert you when maintenance is needed.

Safety Features:

Low-Oil Shutoff: Automatically turns off the generator if the oil level is too low, preventing engine damage.

Overload Protection: Protects the generator from damage if the load exceeds its capacity.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Some generators come with built-in CO detectors that will shut off the generator if CO levels become dangerous, which is particularly important for portable generators used near living areas.

Tips for Choosing the Right Backup Generator

Assess Your Power Needs:

Make a list of the appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. This will help you determine the necessary wattage and choose a generator that meets your needs.

Consider Your Location:

If you live in an area prone to frequent or prolonged power outages, investing in a standby generator may be more beneficial. For areas with infrequent outages, a portable generator might suffice.

Think About Fuel Availability:

Consider which fuel type is most accessible and convenient for you. If natural gas is readily available, a standby generator that runs on natural gas could be the best option.

Budget Considerations:

Backup generators vary widely in cost, with portable models being more affordable than standby generators. However, factor in the long-term benefits and potential increase in home value when considering the initial investment.

Professional Installation:

Standby generators should be installed by a licensed professional to ensure proper connection to your home’s electrical system and compliance with local building codes.

Conclusion

A backup generator is a valuable addition to any home, providing peace of mind and continuous power during outages. Whether you choose a portable generator for essential circuits or a standby generator for whole-house coverage, understanding your power needs, fuel preferences, and the generator’s features will help you make an informed decision. By investing in a reliable backup generator, you can ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and functional no matter what the weather or the grid throws your way.