Embedded Files
Generator sizing: Generac Home Backup Generator Sizing Calculator
Champion Home Standby Generator Selector
Appliance kilowatt (kW) usage: Watt Usage for Common Appliances
Appliance (NG) or (LPG) usage: NG and LPG Usage for Common Appliances
Interested in having a standby generator installed at your location? If yes, please fill out our generator assessment form.
The generator assessment form along with the links provided above, give people a better understanding of how generators are sized to make sure their needs are met.
For those who are usually home, have a portable generator, and do not mind the manual intervention of periodically starting the generator and manually regulating household loads, these are two economical backup power solutions: GenerLink (we're certified installers) and Reliance Controls. Either of these two transfer switches can be paired with a 120/240 4-wire portable generator.
If you want a portable generator to be your backup power solution, these are a few of our comments & recommendations:
Purchase spare spark plugs, air filter, engine oil, fuel stabilizer, dry gas (gas-line antifreeze) and a trickle battery charger for the type of battery you're using.
Keep your gas tank 95% full to reduce condensation if the generator will not be used for a long period of time.
If your generator is using gasoline or diesel for its fuel, get the longest power cord you can afford. These fuel types produce a lot of carbon monoxide. A 40ft or 60ft cord may be enough depending on your situation.
If using propane or natural gas, a 20ft power cord might be sufficient.
Make sure your home has working carbon monoxide detectors.
If your generator is relatively new and the battery is good, and if the generator is having a hard time starting, most likely it is a fuel issue. Good thing you purchased some fuel stabilizer and dry gas!
A portable generator as a backup power solution can be cost-effective and reliable.
There are many high quality standby generator systems on the market such as: Champion, Generac, Kohler, Cummins, Winco Generators, etc. that offer fully automatic operation that are extremely convenient to own.
Standby generators are purchased for multiple reasons:
Many people work at home and need constant power for their computers and networking devices.
Others may need a standby generator system for medical reasons.
Standby generators will power your security systems during utility power outages.
Some people have hundreds of dollars worth of meat and perishables stored in their freezers and refrigerators.
According to AI: Typically, a well-installed standby generator can increase home resale value by 3-5%.
Standby generators help protect sensitive electronic devices and appliances. Automatic standby generators start when the utility's power becomes unstable or when there is a complete loss of power from the utility.
In areas where basement flooding is a concern, a standby generator ensures that sump pumps continue to operate during power outages, helping prevent water damage.
Many people like me, enjoy being cool in the summer and warm during the winter, and the other conveniences offered by a standby generator during a power outage.
A well-installed and properly maintained standby generator can last 20 to 30 years. This lifespan can vary depending on several factors:
Usage: Generators used frequently or for extended periods may wear out faster.
Quality of the Generator: High-quality brands generally offer longer durability and more reliability.
Regular Maintenance: Routine maintenance (including oil changes, filter replacements, and system checks) is essential to prevent wear and tear.
We recommend shopping around to get the best value for your $$. The overall value of your generator purchase will depend on the generator installation by factory trained personnel and the service after the sale. An experienced electrician might be able to wire-up the generator and Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), but it is highly unlikely for that electrician to set all the parameters of the controller correctly and to troubleshoot the generator system if something goes wrong. Dealerships and factory trained service personnel have all the needed tools, documentation, and can expedite parts, if needed. For many reasons, some dealerships will not provide service/troubleshooting for generators they do not install.
We're here to help. Life is better with power.
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