If you live in an area that gets a lot of power outages, you might want to consider buying a standby generator. These devices can come in all shapes and sizes, from whole house models to portable ones. While they might seem like a good idea at first, there are a number of factors to consider when it comes to whether or not you should buy a generator.
Cost of a standby generator
When you need to keep your home or business functioning, you may need a standby generator. It can provide power during an outage and keeps your phone, internet, and security systems running. It can also protect your property from flood damage.
A traditional standby generator is a permanent pad-mounted machine that requires multiple electricians to install. It is a substantial investment.
Portable generators are a more economical alternative. They are usually used for small-scale jobs.
The cost of a standby generator varies depending on the fuel it runs on. The cheapest fuel is natural gas, while the more expensive is gasoline or diesel.
The best way to determine the cost of a standby generator is to find out what your needs are. You can estimate the cost of installing a generator by considering the size and wattage of the appliances you’ll need to power. You can also check your homeowner’s insurance policy for premium discounts on a standby generator.
A standby generator will run on propane or natural gas. You can also opt for an automatic transfer switch that automatically starts the generator when the utility power goes out. It will then disconnect from the power source when the grid is restored.
Size of a standby generator vs. a portable generator
There are two main types of generators: standby and portable. Portables are smaller and less expensive. However, they are not as powerful. If you are looking for a generator for a long-term power outage, a standby generator will be a better option.
The size of your generator will depend on your needs. If you need to power a whole house, you may want to go with a high-end conventional generator. You should also take into account how you are going to use the generator.
While portable generators are easier to install and operate, they are not as powerful. The only exception is the DuroMax Portable Generator, which can run on natural gas or gasoline.
Although standby generators are more powerful, they are also more expensive. Standby generators can cost as much as $20,000, while portable generators are more affordable.
Both standby and portable generators require professional installation. Standby generators need to be installed in a safe location. They can’t be used in areas that are unventilated. They should be installed at least 15 feet away from your home.
Portable generators are designed to be used outdoors, but they can be stored indoors. Some models are equipped with security features. They are also very quiet.
Whole house generators vs. stationary generators
The choice of a whole house generator or a portable one depends on your needs. If you need a powerful, continuous source of power for an extended period, a stationary unit is the best option. However, if you have only temporary power needs, such as camping, a portable model might work just fine.
Home generators are becoming more common. They can help you stay warm during a snow storm or keep your Internet going during a blackout. They can also protect you against the ravages of natural disasters.
The average home needs about 5,000 to 7,500 watts of electricity, depending on the appliances you have. Some of the most popular devices that require a large amount of wattage include dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines. A good calculator can help you determine the right wattage for your needs.
A whole house generator can be powered by natural gas or propane. These systems must be inspected and approved by your local authority. Typically, a plumber will connect the fuel line to the generator.
Portable generators are usually less expensive than standby types. However, these units are usually not capable of powering all of your household appliances. They must be hooked up to a transfer switch.