Having a standby generator in your home is a great way to ensure that you and your family are always safe. But, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Here are a few factors to keep in mind.
Propane vs natural gas
Choosing a fuel source for your standby generator is a decision you’ll want to make carefully. Both natural gas and propane offer advantages and disadvantages. You’ll need to consider how you’ll use your generator, how you want to store the fuel, and how you’ll handle the installation.
Compared to gasoline, propane has a higher energy content, so it’s more efficient. Also, it burns cleaner. This makes it a good choice for use in your home.
Natural gas, on the other hand, has a lower energy content, but is more environmentally friendly. It is also cheaper per gallon than propane. It’s also available 24/7. However, it isn’t easy to identify a gas leak and it can be difficult to maintain the pipes.
Propane is an efficient fuel, and it has a near-limitless shelf life. It’s not as flammable as natural gas, and it’s less harmful to the environment.
Unlike propane, natural gas is not a liquid at normal pressures. It is stored in underground tanks. This is a good thing because it requires less space and maintenance. It is also less obtrusive to your home’s interior.
Natural gas is a good choice if you want a dependable fuel source. However, it can be expensive to convert a generator from propane to natural gas.
Preventive maintenance
Performing proper preventive maintenance on your standby generator installation is a necessary safeguard. Not only does it help ensure the safety of your generator in the event of an emergency, it can also prolong the life of the unit.
Regular maintenance can identify a number of minor problems before they turn into big problems, which could lead to costly repairs. The NFPA 110 Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems is a good reference for general maintenance requirements.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory reports that the cost of maintaining a 300 kW standby generator can range from $8,500 to $10,500 annually. This is based on the size and fuel type of the unit.
If your facility has a diesel generator, you should schedule preventive maintenance before the start of hurricane season. This will help you avoid damage to electrical wires and damage to the standby generator.
During this maintenance, the technician should also check the exhaust system and air cleaner units. The engine should be lubricated, and the battery should be checked for leaks and electrolyte levels. The generator should be cleaned and inspected, and the hoses and coolant lines should be checked.
When performing your own maintenance, follow manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. This can include checking the battery’s electrolyte level, checking the exhaust system, and reconditioning the fuel tank.
Cost
Investing in a standby generator can help you reduce the cost of your electric bills. They can also help you avoid costly repairs and keep you safe from hazards associated with electricity.
The installation process involves getting permits and hiring a licensed electrician. It also requires plumbing, wiring, and setting up a concrete pad.
Depending on where you live, the installation cost can vary widely. Some homeowners may avoid the purchase and installation of a standby generator due to the expense.
The size of the generator you choose can have a huge impact on the price. A whole house generator is typically around 15-20 kW, while a partial standby model supports only select circuits. The latter can be an expensive proposition, especially if you have a lot of landscaping or hard to reach areas.
The price of a standby generator might be high, but it can give you peace of mind. During power outages, it can run lights and other appliances, helping you keep your home functional.
A good standby generator can last for 15 to 30 years, with minimal maintenance. However, the cost of replacing malfunctioning equipment can easily surpass the costs of a standby generator’s installation.
The best part about having a standby generator is that it can provide you with the peace of mind you need to stay on top of your day-to-day routine. Even if your area is affected by severe weather, you can count on your backup generator to keep your lights and other appliances running.