A whole house generator can help keep your home running when the power goes out. They’re wired directly into your electrical system and come with a fuel tank, so you won’t have to worry about extension cords.
To calculate the size generator you need, first list out all of the appliances and electronics you want to run in case of a power outage. Then, find out what their starting and running wattages are.
Cost
If you’ve ever experienced a power outage, you know how inconvenient it can be. Having to throw away spoiled food, repairing frozen pipes, and not having your sump pump work can be financially damaging.
Whole house generators offer a reliable, cost-effective way to prepare for prolonged outages. They also provide peace of mind for those who live in a vulnerable area.
How much a whole house generator will cost depends on the size of the system. It’s important to choose the right system capacity so it can power all your household appliances and systems when the power goes out.
Licensed generator installation companies can give you an accurate kilowatt estimate to determine the proper system size. They’ll also consider the load of your home’s electrical circuits, ensuring you have enough energy to power all your critical appliances and systems.
Installation
A whole house generator is a permanent backup for your home during an electrical outage. These devices use a natural gas or propane fuel source and can run for weeks without needing to be refueled, providing you with a safer power solution.
Generally, generators come in two sizes: smaller and larger. Smaller systems have the capacity to power one or more appliances and lights, while bigger ones can be sized for a full home.
When it comes to choosing a size for your generator, keep in mind that a large system can be more expensive. A generator with a 20 kW rating can be adequate for most homes under 2,500 square feet, but you may need a higher-capacity unit to power all your large appliances and lights.
Before installation, you’ll need to obtain a permit from your local building department. The permit will usually include a fee that will be added to the overall installation cost.
Maintenance
A whole house generator estimate is an important part of your home’s power protection plan. The right generator can keep your home warm, save you money on utility bills, and help keep your appliances and pipes working at their best during a power outage.
Like any mechanical appliance, a whole house generator needs maintenance and repairs. These can include oil and filter changes, and antifreeze checkups if the unit is water-cooled.
The cost of a maintenance or repair job will vary by the type of part needed, how complicated it is, and how experienced the technician is. Smaller portable generators might require simple repairs that can be done at home, while complex fixes on larger whole-house standby models may need professional attention.
Annual inspections and a load test are typically part of a standby generator’s regular maintenance schedule, and the cost of this service is about $75 to $300. These are usually scheduled just before the season when you most need backup power.
Warranty
Whole house generators are more than just a backup for your home, they can also be life savers during a power outage. They provide a way to keep your home powered up during severe weather and other power outages that are often caused by storms, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
If you want to be able to have all your appliances, electronics, and other equipment up and running during an outage, you’ll need a large generator that can handle these demands. Depending on the size of your home and its electrical system, you may need up to a 7,500-watt unit to run all of your critical equipment.
Manufacturers usually offer limited warranties that cover parts and labor for a specific amount of time. Most offer travel coverage for the first two years of the warranty.