A whole house generator is a backup system that kicks in when the power goes out. It powers the entire home and is ideal for prolonged power outages like hurricanes and blizzards.
They come in a variety of sizes and can be powered by natural gas or propane. These fuel sources are clean, reliable and cost-efficient.
Cost
One of the first things you will want to do is calculate how much power your home needs. This can be done by asking the electrician to take a look at your current power consumption.
Then you can get a generator that will provide enough wattage to power everything in your house. This is called sizing your generator.
Whole house generators are typically sized between 6 and 20 kW, which is enough to power the majority of a home up to 3,000 square feet.
They are also more expensive than portable models because of the installation. Depending on the size of your home, installation can be as little as $5,000 or as much as $10,000.
The generator will need to be connected to the gas meter and electrical panel, as well as an automatic transfer switch. Often, this can be done by the installers in one visit.
Efficiency
A natural gas generator is a powerful choice for homeowners. It’s a reliable backup system that keeps power running, even during a hurricane or ice storm.
Because it’s a clean-burning fuel, natural gas produces fewer environmental impacts than diesel and gasoline. It’s also more energy-efficient, which means less fuel is wasted.
Whole house generators can use different types of fuel, including propane, natural gas and diesel. To select the best fuel source, you need to know which type is available in your area and how much it costs.
For instance, you may find that gasoline is a cheap option for your home, but it can be limited in supply at times of high demand, such as during a disaster.
Choosing a gas generator that uses high-efficiency fuel is important, since it helps save money over the long run and decreases emissions. But make sure that the generator you choose can handle the load of your entire home, and has a starting watt rating to support the most critical appliances.
Environmental Impact
When it comes to a whole house generator, natural gas offers a more environmentally friendly option than other fuels. Compared to oil and coal, the amount of sulfur, nitrogen and carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) released is significantly less.
Another advantage is that it does not emit a pungent odor, which is a common issue with generators powered by oil or diesel. This makes it a cleaner alternative, especially for consumers who live in areas where pollution is a major concern.
In addition to being a more sustainable choice, whole house generator natural gas is also one of the most efficient and affordable fuels available on the market. It is easier to access and can be delivered directly through pipelines, which eliminates the need for fuel storage in homes and businesses.
Maintenance
Natural gas generators can be more efficient than gasoline-powered ones due to their clean burn, but they also require regular maintenance. That includes checking your battery and exerciser circuits, changing your filter and oil, repairing coolant leaks, keeping up with belts, bolts, connections, and clamps, and of course, the usual checks on your alternator voltage.
Luckily, it’s not all that difficult to keep a natural gas generator performing at its best, as long as you have an experienced technician on your side. These guys can do everything from hooking up the generator to a home’s main natural gas supply to testing and tuning it to the max. They can even help you choose a model that’s right for your needs. Ultimately, you’ll save money by avoiding expensive repairs. Plus, a properly maintained natural gas generator can last 20 years or more. It’s a smart investment that can be a lifesaver in the event of a power outage.