When considering buying a whole house generator, there are some things you should know. The costs involved and the manual start options available are just a few of them. Also, there are a couple of different fuel sources, such as natural gas and gasoline, to consider.
Gasoline
When it comes to emergency power, you don’t want to leave your house unprotected. A whole house generator is a great way to ensure that you stay powered up no matter what happens. You can buy one that powers your entire home or you can connect it to your city’s utilities.
If you plan to buy your own, be sure to do your homework before you part with your hard earned cash. While the installation cost may be a small fraction of the actual unit, the overall cost can be astronomical. For example, a 20kw whole house generator that is connected to your natural gas service could run you anywhere from $2000 to $5,000. Unless you’re willing to take the leap of faith, it’s better to leave the heavy lifting to a professional.
One of the best ways to determine the right generator for you is to consult a professional. They will know exactly what you need and will recommend the most efficient and effective solution.
Natural gas
You might already know that natural gas can provide you with a stable source of fuel. If you want to install a whole house generator, you can connect it to your home’s natural gas line. There are many advantages to using natural gas to power your home.
First, natural gas burns cleanly. This means there are no problems with leaking or spilled fuel. It also reduces the exhaust in your home. Many homeowners find it a convenient choice. They can easily use it for cooking, heating and drying clothes.
Another benefit is that it is cheaper than other options. Natural gas is priced at about $60 to $120 per day. However, it depends on your usage. To calculate how much fuel you need, you can use the starting watts required for your appliances. The running watts are a little higher.
Once you decide to purchase a whole house generator, you will need to consult a professional. He or she will be able to advise you on which model is best for your needs.
Manual start options
In a pinch, a whole house generator can serve as a standby power source to keep your home powered up until the grid comes back on. These generators run on a variety of fuels, including propane, natural gas, and diesel. The best option for your needs depends on how much power you need to keep your home running, and your budget. However, it’s important to understand what these generators are capable of before making your final purchase. Here are some of the key features you’ll want to look out for.
It’s important to make sure you select the right model, as some models are more efficient than others. For example, some have a built-in manual start. This means you don’t have to worry about a battery drain or a broken wiring harness if the power goes out. Moreover, a whole house generator is more energy efficient than a portable generator, so you can avoid paying extra for fuel.
Cost of installation
Whole house generator installation costs vary depending on the size and type of generator, as well as the location. In addition, homeowners should be aware of other costs associated with the project.
Whole house generators can run off gasoline, natural gas or liquid propane. Each of these types of generators puts out a different amount of power. Natural gas generators are less expensive than liquid propane units.
Installation costs for whole house generators vary from $1,500 to $5,000. They are typically installed by a professional. Generally, these costs include the electrical panel, fuel, and materials. However, a poured concrete pad will add to the total cost.
Before purchasing a generator, homeowners should determine how many appliances they will be able to run during an outage. Generally, a home with multiple appliances will need a larger generator than a single-family dwelling. Likewise, homes with high-end appliances will require a bigger generator than a house without them.
Installing a whole house generator is a major investment. Taking time to consider and research your options before making a purchase can save you a lot of money in the long run.