Whether you need a standby generator for medical purposes or to power your home in the event of a natural disaster, it’s an important investment. You’ll want to get a quote from a top-rated pro who can help you choose the right one for your home.
The cost of a whole house generator is a significant outlay, but it pays off over time. Plus, it can increase the value of your home.
Cost
There are a number of factors that affect the cost of a whole house generator. It can vary based on the type of fuel you use (natural gas, liquid propane, diesel) and the size of your home.
The best way to determine whether you need a whole house generator is to get an estimate from a local expert. They’ll be able to help you assess the impact of a power outage on your household and recommend the right size generator for your home.
A good whole house generator will keep all the lights, appliances, and other essentials running, as well as your security system. This means you can sleep easy knowing your family’s safety is protected.
While the initial investment for a whole house generator may seem high, the return on your investment will pay for itself in energy savings over time. In addition, there are a variety of tax credits you can take advantage of to help cover the cost.
Energy efficiency
A whole house generator is a standby system that automatically turns on when there’s an outage and provides power to your entire home. This can help protect your food, air conditioning and other appliances.
Unlike portable generators, which can be plugged in or moved to another location during an outage, whole house generators are permanently installed outside your home and can provide backup power for a long time. They also use less fuel than portable models and require less maintenance, making them a smart investment for homeowners.
A whole house generator is an energy efficient addition that can increase your home’s value and reduce your utility bills. It also qualifies for an energy credit, and you may be able to use that credit to pay for the installation.
Peace of mind
The peace of mind that comes with having a whole house generator is well worth the investment. It can make coping with storms much easier, allowing you to continue your normal activities as usual.
In addition, standby generators automatically restore power when necessary, ensuring that critical appliances and home systems remain functioning while keeping the family safe and warm in the event of a blackout. This includes heating, refrigeration and water heaters.
A backup generator is particularly important for those who rely on medical devices and must maintain their health in the face of a power outage. In these situations, even a brief loss of power can be deadly.
Whole house generators are also more convenient than portable ones, which need to be fueled and manually started every time there’s an outage. They also don’t emit as many fumes as portable generators do, which is better for your health and the environment.
Tax credits
Homeowners who purchase and install whole house generators may qualify for energy credit. These credits can range from a small percentage of the purchase price to thousands of dollars, depending on the type of system.
The credit is applied to your federal tax return, and it factors in the cost of the generator and how much electricity it generates. To claim the credit, you’ll need to complete IRS Form 5695.
It’s important to note that not all states offer tax incentives for generator installation. Some, such as California, only provide rebates for backup power systems that are powered by renewable energy sources.
However, if you have a medical condition that requires frequent use of electrically-powered devices, your whole house generator may be eligible for a tax credit. It is similar to the business expense deduction, but you must keep detailed records of your equipment and how often you use it. This will allow you to deduct the full amount of your expenses on your taxes.