If you are looking to purchase a whole house generator Orlando, there are a few things you should know. First, you will need to find out how much it will cost to install it and also how often you should test it. Finally, you will need to find out how to keep it running smoothly.
Cost of installation
The cost of whole house generator installation will depend on a variety of factors. How much electricity you use, the fuel type you choose, and the size of your home are some of the key considerations. You can find a number of free estimates from electricians near you.
Having a professional install your generator will save you time and money. They can also help you wire other electrical requirements.
A dedicated circuit for the generator will add between $550 and $1,000 to your total costs. This is because the electrician will have to upgrade your electrical sub-panel.
Installation is also influenced by the access you have to the unit. Generators with access to the garage are a lot cheaper than ones that are located elsewhere.
To lower the cost of installing a whole house backup power generator, you can choose to rent a solar model. It is expensive up front, but over time, it can save you a lot of money.
Standby generator vs. whole-house generator
It’s important to know the differences between a standby generator and a whole house generator. These are both great backup solutions for keeping your home functioning during a power outage. They can save you hundreds of dollars in unexpected expenses.
Standby generators are typically installed outside of your home. When an outage is detected, the generator will automatically start. If you have a large household, you may consider purchasing a whole house generator. Whole-house generators are more powerful and will run all appliances in your home.
Whether you decide to purchase a standby generator or a whole house generator, you will want to make sure you have enough fuel. Typically, standby generators run on natural gas or propane. However, you can also opt to purchase a home standby generator powered by diesel. This option is best if your gas line is not available.
Whole-house generators are sized to power your entire house, and they can be equipped with sophisticated programming to help keep your home running during an outage. In addition to being a reliable source of power, they also feature a liquid-cooled engine for longer run times.
Testing your generator
When you have a whole house generator, you can count on it to keep your home or business operating in the event of a power outage. However, you want to ensure it is in good condition. If you have any concerns, contact a residential generator specialist for advice.
You will probably find that your generator has automatic testing features. This may be an ohmmeter or a panel-mounted meter that monitors current flow.
There are also manual testing procedures that you can try. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
The ohmmeter is a useful tool to check whether your electrical connections are solid. A good ohmmeter should have a resolution of 0.2 ohms or less.
Another useful tool is the ground/neutral continuity tester. Testing your connections is an important part of maintaining your generator.
You can also test your generator’s watts and output frequency. These are a lot more complicated than the ohmmeter, but are still good indicators of your generator’s capacity.
Keeping your generator running well
One of the most important things to do when you have a whole house generator is to keep it running properly. Running it too close to your home or having it sit unused for long periods can lead to serious problems.
To keep a whole house generator running well, you need to follow a few simple steps. Keep it out of the elements and use it only when you need it. Store enough fuel to get you through a power outage, but not more than you can handle.
Make sure you store the fuel in an OSHA-approved container. Also, avoid touching the tank with wet hands. It may get damaged or clog.
Always read the owner’s manual before using a portable generator. You need to know how to use it safely and avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you’re buying a generator for a whole house, you should consult an electrician. They’ll help you decide on the size of your machine and list the appliances you’ll need to use it with.