How To Pick A Residential Generac Generator For Your Home
Emergencies happen when we least expect them. In most emergencies, one of the first services that get cut off is power. When access to electricity is made impossible, it is very inconvenient. Also, it also affects your safety and comfort. Having a standby generator can offer you the support you need when and if you should need it. Choosing the right generator may seem intimidating with all the choices available. However, with the right information, you will be able to identify the perfect brand and model for your needs.
Why You Need A Whole-House Generator For Your Home
Contents
A standby generator can offer several benefits for your home and business, such as:
- Convenience: A generator can supply any structure with power, allowing the use of essential systems such as heating, air conditioning, refrigerator, freezer, water treatment, etc. You can power up your laptops, gadgets, desktop computers, TVs, modems, and security systems without any problems as long as you have a standby generator available. You also need a generator that runs reliably and is durable enough for the long haul. Generac generators, for example, can provide power for residential or commercial structures continuously for prolonged periods when needed.
- Safety: A generator can provide power when and where it is required. You can continue using systems that rely on electric power without interruption, including security systems, medical devices, and food preservers. Generators also eliminate the need to use gas lamps or candles that could increase the risk of fire.
- Uninterrupted Service: A generator allows any business to provide continued service to their clients regardless of the availability of power from the main grid. As such, you can continue to receive clients and keep your business open.
How To Choose The Right Standby Generator
1. Choose Your Preferred Fuel
Standby generators with a maximum capacity of 22 kW run on liquid propane or natural gas. Some generators use diesel, but these are typically whole house units. The type of fuel that a generator uses is essential because it will affect your environment setup. If you prefer a generator that runs on diesel or liquid propane, for example, you will need to install tanks for storing fuel. For those who choose a natural gas-powered generator, you will have to ensure that you have properly-sized gas lines and meters installed. If you need more clarification on this matter, do not hesitate to consult with a professional technician, such as Townsend Energy.
2. Consider How Much Backup Power You Need
Generators come in many sizes and capacities. The type you choose should provide sufficient power for your needs. First, determine the kind of electrical appliances and equipment that must stay operational during a power outage. Some structures, for example, will only require power for lights and a few gadgets. However, others may need to keep larger equipment powered up. Generac’s Guardian Series, for example, offers a number of heavy-duty options from 8,000 watts to 45,000 watts – enough wattage to power up several large appliances. The generators under this series can run on natural gas or liquid propane.
When it comes to generator power, consider the following:
Standby Generator Size
Size refers to the capacity of a generator unit. The bigger your power needs, the larger the sizing of the generator. If you plan to run electrical appliances such as freezers and air conditioning, for example, you should choose a generator with a higher sizing, which is measured in kWs or kilowatts. To learn how to determine the sizing of your generator, Generac has a handy sizing calculator on their website that you can use. Also, you can consult with the experts at Townsend Energy for more information.
Backup Generator Power Rating
The power rating is indicated as kW. This refers to the electrical power output of the generator. Essentially, it is the power that a unit is capable of producing. The power rating of the unit you should choose will depend on how much power you need for your home or office. If your demand is higher, you should choose a unit with a higher power rating. The generator’s power rating will also have to comply with certain code requirements. If your building requires power for critical applications such as for running medical equipment, for example, make sure the generator type you choose complies with existing codes.
3. Determine The Location Of The Backup Power Generator
In general, a generator unit should be installed close to the fuel supply and the transfer switch. It must also be readily accessible for use, repair, and maintenance. Note that there are code requirements that must be complied with if you choose outdoor or rooftop generators for safety purposes. If you choose an indoor installation, you also need to comply with requirements for a number of issues, such as ventilation, fuel supply, and safety from combustion.
For an outdoor installation, you may have to meet certain enclosure requirements. If you live in close proximity to other houses, you may have to comply with requirements set by local noise ordinances. In many cases, you will have to build an enclosure not just to protect the unit from the weather but also to control the noise it produces.
Call Townsend Energy To Schedule A Free Generator Consultation
Townsend Energy is a leading provider in generator installation services throughout New England. Not only do we offer backup generator installation, but also maintenance, replacement, and repair services. We only employ top quality service contractors who are well trained in the most modern methods of HVAC and generator techniques. Call or contact us online today for more information on a Townsend Energy generator installation in your home today.
Contact us today to have all of your generator questions answered by the experts in the industry.
Contact us now at (800) 722-4101 to find out more!