Why Buy a Backup Generator?

Power outages can occur at any time, whether it’s due to storms or other issues. These situations can be devastating for homeowners who are not prepared. One way to prevent this is by buying a backup generator. These are a great way to keep your refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner and other critical appliances running until power is restored.

Reliability

When it comes to protecting your home or business from a power outage, reliability is the name of the game. You need to be able to run essential outlets, lights and appliances without tripping your circuit breaker and causing damage to your belongings. The best backup generators offer features like remote control, regenerative cooling and a battery backup to keep your family or business going until the utility company can restore power. They also come with a fancy touchscreen interface to control your power output and schedule maintenance. One of the best ways to increase your standby generator’s reliability is to perform a load test and conduct preventive maintenance. A reputable company such as Generac can help ensure your backup generator is up for the challenge. The biggest hazard is leaving your backup generator on autopilot, so it’s worth the time to make sure you have all the tools you need to protect your home or business from a power outage.

Safety

Generators are essential backup power systems that help you avoid costly and damaging power outages due to storms, ice, wildfires, etc. It’s important to buy the right one based on your home and its needs and use it properly. It’s also very important to know which fuel it uses: diesel, natural gas or propane. You’ll need to know this so that you can store the right amount of it on hand in case your power goes out. Carbon monoxide is produced by most generators, and it can be deadly if you’re not careful. It’s a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that can kill in minutes if you breathe it. It’s important to keep your generator outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your house. It should also be positioned away from doors, windows or air conditioner units. It’s also a good idea to install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms around your home.

Cost

Backup generators are a necessity for people who live in areas where natural disasters are common, such as hurricanes. They provide a steady supply of power to your home during a blackout, saving you and your family from food spoilage and frozen pipes. Whether you purchase a portable or permanent backup generator depends on a few factors. These include the size, fuel source (natural gas or propane), and installation cost. A portable generator is a great solution for families who want to be prepared in case of a blackout and don’t have the time or money for a permanent installation. These units are easy to use and don’t need regular refueling with gasoline. Whole-house generators are a more expensive investment, but they provide greater output and protection than portable models. A whole house system costs between $1,500 and $6,000 plus the labor to install it.

Installation

A backup generator can be installed to power your home in case of a power outage. These units are usually sized to turn on your HVAC system or provide enough electricity for critical appliances such as refrigerators and well pumps. These units automatically disconnect your house or building from the utility lines during power outages and then reconnect when main power returns. This prevents dangerous power surges and spikes from reaching your devices when you first turn on the generator. Most installations can be done in a day or two with a team of licensed electricians and pipefitters. Your KOHLER dealer will handle all the necessary permits and coordination. All backup generators connect to the electrical system with transfer switches, which switch power from your utility to the generator and tell it to start. They can be part of a sub-panel or a whole house switch that transfers the entire breaker panel to the generator’s power.