A whole house generator costs more than a portable model but can save your life and property when the power goes out. They are hands-off and turn on automatically to provide backup power.
There are a few factors that affect your whole house generator price, including the type of fuel you use and the size of the unit. You may also need a permit, and some units need a concrete pad to protect them from shifting ground.
Installation
Whole house generators, also known as standby generators, are similar to those that hospitals and governmental buildings use during emergencies. They are commonly installed in areas where blizzards, hurricanes, and other natural disasters occur to provide extra security for homes that rely on power 24/7.
A generator costs more to purchase than a portable, but it pays off over time with the added peace of mind. Plus, whole house generators are permanently wired into the home and turn on automatically when power goes out.
It’s important to install a generator according to local codes and HOA restrictions, so it’s best to get a consultation with a licensed electrician and plumber. These tradesmen can complete the installation in a short time and help you save money in the long run by not having to re-wire, install new pipes or gas components.
Once the generator is purchased, have a site prepared for it and obtain a building permit for the job. Once that’s approved, set up the pad and have the plumbing and electrical rough ins completed.
Parts
There are several parts that make up a whole house generator, the most important of which is the main frame or skid. The main frame is where the magic happens – it holds the power and control units, and in the case of larger systems, it may also store a few essentials like the battery or fuel tank. The main frame isn’t the only part of the geno os that is important, the control unit also needs to be top notch. The control unit is what makes the geno os tick and keep your home powered up in the event of a power outage. The most expensive component is the control unit. The cheapest is the main frame or skid. You’ll have to weigh the cost against the benefits of a fully operational power backup system in a pinch. The best way to find out for yourself is to get a free quote from the pros at AP Electric and Generators.
Fuel
Power outages can be devastating, causing damage to plumbing and heating, loss of critical medical equipment, and even food spoilage. A whole house generator can help avert this situation by providing the power you need to keep your household operating.
The first thing to consider when purchasing a whole house generator is the fuel that it runs on. Gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and liquid propane are the most common options.
Choosing the right type of fuel for your generator will help ensure it operates for a long time and that you have a reliable supply when needed. Fortunately, you can get tri-fuel systems that allow you to use all three of these fuels, giving you more flexibility in the event that you run out of gasoline or propane.
Maintenance
Having a whole house generator can be a lifesaver in times of power outages. However, it won’t work as well without regular maintenance.
This type of device is quite complex, so it is important to have experts do the work if possible. The cost of repairs can vary greatly, depending on what goes wrong with the system and how many different parts need to be replaced.
A typical repair may include replacing a carburetor, which can cost around $50 to $75. More complex fixes or replacements will have a higher price tag and require more time.
Having a skilled technician inspect and maintain your generator is a worthwhile investment, as it will help ensure that your generator runs as smoothly as possible during power outages. This is especially true if you live in an area that is more susceptible to storms.