All About Generators: What Is a Backup Generator & Why Do You Need One?
Many people think of a generator as a large piece of heavy equipment that only big businesses and construction sites need to invest in. But a standby generator or backup generator can be one of the most useful pieces of machinery in your entire home if disaster strikes.
In this article, we describe what a generator is and the reasons to have a generator in your home. We’ll also discuss important considerations like generator sizing, generator maintenance, and where to buy one.
What Is A Generator?
The history of the generator dates back to 1831, when a British scientist named Michael Faraday created a mechanism that led other scientists to pick up where he left off with the invention. Today, there are a couple different kinds of generators.
Standby generators are permanently installed into your home, much like an air conditioning unit, and run on propane or natural gas. These generators work with a home’s pre-existing wiring and are constantly ready to function within seconds of an emergency.
Meanwhile, a backup generator is a small portable machine that you can wheel into the desired space and connect to power with an extension cord or transfer switch. These generators turn on an on-board alternator to create power, and they can be moved from place to place very easily.
Reasons to Have a Backup Generator in the Home
The primary reason that homeowners purchase a backup generator for their homes is to be prepared in case of a natural disaster. But generators have other uses too, even with the weather isn’t devastating.
For example, many homeowners use generators in their backyards as a source of extra electricity while doing home improvement projects that require high-powered sanders, grinders, and overhead lights. Backup generators are very useful for people who live in cold climates where power outages during very low temperatures could be deadly. This is also very important if you live with someone who has a medical issue that requires electricity or occasionally have guests over. Also, portable generators are great for outdoor camping so you can have all the conveniences of home in the great outdoors.
What Size Generator Do I Need?
Generator sizing is one big concern among homeowners who want to be prepared for emergencies. The best way to determine optimal size is to add up the wattage of the items that require power in your home, such as the refrigerator, air conditioner, washer and dryer, and television. It’s a good idea to select a generator model that can accommodate more than your current wattage so that you have the option of adding more devices later. Consult an electrician if you have any concerns about your wattage or adding it up.
Generator Maintenance and Other Considerations
In addition to generator sizing, there are other considerations about the functions of generators and generator maintenance to keep in mind when purchasing a new one for your home.
As a general rule, generators that are more powerful will have more available outlet connections. Cost is also a major consideration, and portable generators are considerably more affordable than standby models. Portable generators tend to only be between several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, while standby generators are several thousand dollars even at the low end. However, having a standby generator permanently attached to your home can greatly increase your home’s resale value.
Central Plumbing Specialties carries Honeywell Auto Standby Generators and Portable Generators to keep your home safe and secure in case of a power outage. This is a highly reputable and reliable brand of generators that will give you peace of mind and prevent irreversible devastation of the household items you love the most.