Whether you’re looking for a whole house or partial house generator, there are a number of things you’ll need to consider. Some of the things you’ll want to know include what type of generator you need, the maintenance of the generator, and how much weight you can expect from the generator.
Whole-house generators
Whether you’re planning for a power outage or you simply want to be prepared for a natural disaster, whole-house generators from backup generator manufacturers can help keep your home functioning. These devices are a great option for homes with multiple rooms and heavy appliances. They’re also an ideal solution for Florida residents during hurricane season.
In addition to offering backup power, a whole-house generator also helps keep your home running at full capacity when the power goes out. These units are generally larger than comparable AC units and are designed to provide the electrical needs of a whole house.
They are equipped with larger engines and sophisticated programming for better load management. Whole-house generators can also run on natural gas, liquid propane gas, or diesel. Typically, they are connected to a large tank. The amount of fuel required will vary with the generator’s capacity.
Generally, the wattage produced by a generator is the most important feature to consider when choosing one. This is especially true for large-draw electric appliances, such as refrigerators, air conditioning units, sump pumps, and water heaters.
Partial-home generators
Using a home backup generator can help you protect your home and your family during a power outage. It provides you with a secondary source of electricity to keep your home running and powering your appliances, lights, entertainment systems, and other important items. These generators are available in propane and natural gas, and they can be installed by a professional.
When you purchase a home backup generator, you are choosing a permanent fixture that will remain in your home for the life of your home. It connects to your home’s natural gas system, and it automatically comes on when the electricity goes out. It is also quiet, and its insulated weatherproof housing keeps it from being subject to damage during storms.
Home backup generators also have a factory-set maintenance reminder light. They can cost anywhere from $4,800 to $6,000. These generators are available in natural gas or propane. These generators can provide electricity for a few rooms of your home, or they can power your entire home.
Weight of the generator
Whether it is a new or an old standby, you need to know the weight of your generator. This information is critical to the proper operation of your home power backup system. You should also be aware of the various types of generators available in the market today. Choosing the right model for your home will ensure a smoky free environment and reduce your chances of power outages.
The weight of a 20 kilowatt (KW) standby generator will vary from model to model. Some units are as heavy as 650 pounds while others are as light as 250 pounds. You should also be aware of the size and sizing of the fuel supply tank. The best bet is to install the fuel supply above ground and provide a means to access it with ease.
To properly move a 20 kilowatt or more standby generator, you’ll need a team of four to eight. To get the job done, be sure to use the proper lifting techniques. Lifting equipment should not encroach on power lines or on the generator itself. In addition to lifting equipment, you’ll want to have access to fuel trucks and a well-stocked fuel tank. You should also plan for spill containment in case of an emergency.
Maintenance of the generator
Keeping a backup generator manufacturer well-maintained can ensure your unit’s performance and efficiency. Keeping your generator clean and free of debris will also help avoid the danger of carbon monoxide.
Most backup generator manufacturers recommend a regular maintenance schedule to keep your unit in good shape. Maintenance typically involves cleaning and testing the unit. This will ensure your generator has all of the parts needed to run properly.
A running time meter is a handy tool to use when performing maintenance. It can be used to record all services performed and provide a trend analysis. This can be especially important when working with warranty support.
Regular exercise keeps engine parts lubricated and prevents oxidation of electrical contacts. During your maintenance, you should look for loose wires or fittings.
You should also check the exhaust system. This includes the exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, and muffler. If you see signs of leaks, it is important to report these to an authorized service dealer.