Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Choosing The Right Generator For Your Home

The right generator at the right time can turn a homeowner’s nightmare into a disaster averted. From the smallest of setbacks to potentially life-threatening situations, a generator is one of the smartest investments you can make. If the power goes out in a thunder or ice storm and doesn't come back on for some time, a generator can keep you and your family safe, warm and secure. Equally valuable is its ability to preserve food in the refrigerator and freezer. But how do you decide what kind of generator to get? There are two basic types, each with their own merits to consider.


The first option is a standard portable backup generator. This version is the least expensive method of supplying backup power and is easy to move. These generators range in price from $500 for a 3,250-watt unit to $1,500 for a 10,000-watt unit and can be stored away easily until power goes out. But more portability concedes less functionality. This option requires extension cords to be run to individual appliances, and there’s a small risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if not placed at least ten feet from your home while in use. Running a cord from the unit to an outlet inside your home, instead of directly to the appliances, can create back-feed into the electricity circuits and seriously injure electricians working on lines even miles away. An electrician can install a manual transfer switch sub-panel off your main circuit panel to avoid this issue. This is a somewhat costly alternative that limits what can be powered in your house, but it’s the safest way to run power through your internal circuitry from a portable generator.

The second option is much more of a long-term investment and powers a great deal more. A standby generator is built into your home circuitry, so it doesn't require that you manually fill it with gas or hassle with extension cords. When the power shuts off, a standby generator automatically turns on, powered by your house’s fuel lines. This option is best if you frequently lose power or are operating a business or home that relies on a consistent feed of electricity. Standby generators are powerful enough to run a central air conditioner, kitchen appliances and other large items at the same time, but reliability and power come at a price. This option ranges from $5,000 for a 7,000-watt unit to about $15,000 for a 30,000-watt unit. When a loss of power threatens your safety, the standby generator is a much more secure option. Also, you won’t run the risk of injuring electricians operating on your power grid.

Portable and standby generators each have their advantages and drawbacks, so it’s best to weigh the two options to make the best decision. The important thing is that when disaster strikes, you’re prepared for any situation. Having a generator ready to use is a big part of a security plan for the safety of your home and family. If you want to learn more about where generators fit into your plan for power loss, you can give us a call at 1-888-969-BECO or visit our website. As a certified Generac dealer, we look forward to helping you.

2 comments:

  1. Thank you for the nice information. I'm currently using Promate 240 Indoor Power Station. Not that big in watts but very helpful if there is a short power interruption.

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  2. Thank you for the information, and this is very helpful for me.Generator is very important, and the many ways you can get be good generator .
    Electrical Contractors


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