Electrical Products & Services
A standby generator ensures your home stays powered during outages, protecting essential systems like heating, cooling, medical devices, and security. Choosing the right one involves understanding your power needs, selecting a fuel type, and planning a proper installation.
Here’s a quick guide to get started:
- Calculate Power Needs: List essential appliances and their running/starting wattages. Plan for future needs by adding a 10-20% buffer.
- Choose a Fuel Source: Options include natural gas (low maintenance, requires gas lines), propane (clean-burning, good for rural areas), or diesel (efficient but noisier).
- Select Generator Size: For whole-house coverage, aim for 15,000-25,000 watts. For essentials like heating and refrigeration, 7,000-12,000 watts may suffice.
- Consider Features: Look for automatic transfer switches, remote monitoring, and weather-resistant designs.
- Plan Installation: Hire a licensed professional, ensure proper permits, and choose a safe location.
A professionally installed generator can cost $3,000-$5,000 but offers peace of mind during power outages. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each step.
How to Select the Right Size Residential Standby Generator
Calculate Your Home’s Power Requirements
Figuring out how much power your home needs is key to picking the right generator for outages. Here’s a straightforward way to calculate your power needs and make a smart choice.
List Your Total Power Usage
Start by listing all the electrical devices and systems in your home. Pay attention to two things: running wattage (what they need to operate) and starting wattage (what they need to power up). Some appliances use a lot more power to start than to run.
Here’s a handy table of common appliances and their usual power requirements:
| Appliance | Running Watts | Starting Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 150-200 | 2,000 |
| Central Air Conditioner | 2,000-3,000 | 4,500-6,000 |
| Electric Water Heater | 3,000-4,000 | 4,000-4,500 |
| LED Light Bulb (per bulb) | 20-100 | N/A |
| Medical Equipment* | 100-1,000 | Varies |
*Check the manufacturer’s specifications for exact wattage on medical devices.
Select Critical vs. Optional Circuits
To determine the generator size you need, start by identifying which systems are essential during an outage. These might include things like:
- Security systems
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Heating or cooling systems
- Medical devices
- Sump or well pumps
Then, consider which systems are optional, such as entertainment devices, washers/dryers, or garage door openers. By focusing on the essentials, you may be able to choose a smaller, more cost-effective generator.
Account for Future Power Needs
Think long-term when calculating your power requirements. A generator should meet your household’s needs for the next 10-15 years. Consider:
- Future renovations or new appliances that might need more power
- Lifestyle changes, like a growing family or modifications for aging in place
Add a 10-20% buffer to your total wattage to ensure you’re covered. For example, if your current needs are 5,000 watts, go for a generator rated at 6,000 watts or more.
Once you’ve got your power needs figured out, the next step is choosing the right fuel source for your generator.
Pick the Best Fuel Source
Choosing the right fuel type is key to dependable backup power. Each option has its own perks and challenges, so understanding them can help you make the best choice.
Comparing Gas, Propane, and Diesel
Natural gas connects directly to existing gas lines, making it a hassle-free option for urban homes. It offers a steady supply and requires little upkeep.
Propane works well for homes without access to gas lines. It burns cleanly, handles cold weather effectively, and can be stored for long periods without degrading.
Diesel generators are less common in residential settings but are known for their efficiency and durability. However, they require more frequent maintenance and are noisier than other options.
Fuel Cost and Supply Chart
Here’s a quick look at how these fuel types compare:
| Fuel Type | Advantages | Limitations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Gas | – Continuous supply – Lower fuel costs – Cleaner emissions |
– Needs a gas line – May fail during disasters |
Homes in urban or suburban areas with gas lines |
| Propane | – Long storage life – Portable tanks – Cleaner burning |
– Higher fuel costs – Requires tank installation |
Rural homes without natural gas access |
| Diesel | – High fuel efficiency – Long-lasting engines – High power output |
– Regular maintenance – Noisy operation – Limited storage life |
Larger homes with significant power needs |
Practical Considerations
When deciding on a fuel source, keep these factors in mind:
- Installation Needs: Natural gas systems must be installed by licensed professionals to ensure safety and compliance. Propane setups require proper tank placement and periodic checks.
- Maintenance Requirements: Diesel units generally need more frequent servicing, like oil changes and filter replacements, compared to natural gas or propane generators.
- Environmental Impact: Natural gas and propane produce fewer emissions, making them better suited for areas with strict environmental rules.
- Fuel Availability: While natural gas offers an uninterrupted supply, propane and diesel require careful planning for storage and delivery.
After selecting your fuel type, the next step is figuring out the right generator size to meet your energy needs efficiently.
Select the Right Generator Size
Choosing the right generator size is essential to ensure your home gets the power it needs during an outage. The correct size will provide reliable performance without wasting money on excess capacity.
Full House vs. Partial Coverage
First, decide whether you want to power your entire home or just the most important systems. A generator for the whole house typically requires between 15,000 and 25,000 watts, while a system for partial coverage may only need 7,000 to 12,000 watts.
Here’s a breakdown of the options:
| Coverage Type | Typical Size Range | Best For | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole House | 15,000-25,000W | Homes needing power for all systems, including luxury items | $7,000-$15,000 |
| Essential Circuit | 7,000-12,000W | Homes focusing on heating, refrigeration, and basic lighting | $3,000-$7,000 |
| Critical Load | 5,000-8,000W | Homes needing minimal power for critical systems | $2,000-$4,000 |
Essential circuits often include heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, basic lighting, water heaters, and security systems.
Starting vs. Running Power Needs
It’s important to understand the difference between starting power and running power. For example, a refrigerator might need 1,000 watts to run but could require 2,000 watts to start.
To figure out your total power needs, consider two factors:
- Running power: The continuous power needed for all devices operating at the same time.
- Starting power: The highest power surge required when appliances turn on.
"Common mistakes include underestimating power needs and ignoring future or surge requirements".
Choose a generator with enough capacity to handle peak demands and any future household changes. This ensures your generator runs efficiently and lasts longer. An undersized unit can struggle and fail during critical moments, while an oversized generator wastes fuel and money.
Once you’ve determined the right size, you can move on to exploring the features that improve performance and usability.
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Compare Generator Features
Choosing the right generator means understanding its features and how they match your home’s needs. This ensures reliable performance over the long term.
Power Transfer Systems
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) makes power transitions smooth, switching to generator power within 10-30 seconds during an outage. For instance, Champion generators include features like smart load management, weekly self-diagnostics, voltage stabilization, and cold-weather settings for dependable operation.
| Transfer System Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Smart Load Management | Avoids overload by prioritizing critical circuits |
| Self-diagnostic Testing | Runs weekly checks to maintain reliability |
| Voltage Regulation | Keeps power steady for sensitive electronics |
Monitoring and Control Options
Today’s generators often come with advanced monitoring tools, like mobile apps and smart home integrations, allowing for remote control.
"Remote monitoring systems provide real-time information on the generator’s performance, alerts for maintenance needs, and the ability to start or stop the generator remotely, enhancing overall reliability and convenience".
These systems let you track performance, receive maintenance alerts, and even check weather forecasts – all from your phone.
Sound and Weather Protection
High-quality generators are designed to handle the elements while keeping noise to a minimum. Features like noise-dampening enclosures, weather-resistant housings, and vibration-absorbing mounts ensure quiet operation and durability. Look for corrosion-resistant coatings, all-weather enclosures, and raised mounting bases to guard against rust, harsh weather, and water damage. These can help extend the generator’s life to 10-20+ years.
Some key features to consider:
- Noise-dampening enclosures for quieter operation
- Weather-resistant aluminum housings to withstand the elements
- Vibration-absorbing mounts to reduce wear and tear
Once you’ve pinpointed the features you need, you can move on to planning the installation for safe and efficient use.
Plan Your Generator Installation
Once you’ve chosen the right generator, proper installation is key to making sure it works safely and effectively when you need it.
Check Local Rules and Permits
Before starting, check what permits you’ll need. This might include an electrical permit for connecting the generator to your home, approval for meeting building codes, and certification for safe gas line connections. Hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) helps ensure everything meets local rules and safety requirements.
Choose the Installation Location
Pick a spot that’s stable, well-drained, and at least 5 feet away from windows, doors, and vents. Make sure the area allows for good drainage and easy access for maintenance.
"The generator should be positioned on level ground, which can be achieved using a pre-cast concrete pad or creating a pad from materials like interlock stone or flagstone. Ensure the generator is properly fastened to the base using stainless steel bolts".
Hire a Pro vs. Self-Install
Hiring a professional for installation, which typically costs $3,000-$5,000, takes about 1-2 days and ensures everything is done safely and up to code. Companies like Draper Electric handle the entire process, including system evaluation, transfer switch installation, gas line setup, and testing. While doing it yourself might save money upfront, mistakes can void warranties and pose safety risks.
Pro Tip: Always verify that your installer is licensed and certified to meet safety regulations.
Once installed correctly, your generator will be ready to keep your home powered during outages.
Conclusion: Next Steps
Now that you’ve got a handle on your power needs, fuel options, and generator features, it’s time to move forward with your selection and installation plan. Here’s how to ensure you’re making the right choice:
Key Criteria to Review
- Power Needs: Make sure the generator you choose meets your calculated power requirements. Add a 20% buffer to accommodate future needs or extra conveniences you might want during outages.
- Fuel Source: Confirm that your selected fuel type is both affordable and readily available in your area. Factor in long-term costs and maintenance for your chosen fuel option.
- Expert Advice: Consult a licensed electrical contractor to ensure your generator is correctly sized and installed.
"The generator should be properly sized for your specific needs and installed by a licensed professional to ensure safe operation and compliance with local regulations".
Moving Forward
- Schedule a professional assessment and secure any permits needed for installation.
- Work with your contractor to handle the installation. Plan for routine maintenance to keep the generator reliable over time.
- Professional installation guarantees the system operates safely and meets local codes.
While the upfront cost can feel steep, a well-chosen generator offers peace of mind during power outages. Ready to get started? Reach out to experienced professionals who can guide you through the process and ensure everything is done right.
FAQs
What is the disadvantage of a propane generator?
Propane generators are dependable for backup power, but they do have some downsides:
| Disadvantage | Details |
|---|---|
| Storage Needs | Propane tanks require outdoor space and must meet safety clearance rules. |
| Installation Costs | Installing involves complex piping, which increases overall expenses. |
| Higher Costs | Equipment and installation are pricier compared to natural gas generators. |
| Regular Maintenance | Tanks and fuel lines need frequent inspections to check for leaks. |
"The storage requirement for propane tanks can complicate the installation process, as it necessitates additional space and potentially more complex piping arrangements".
Despite these challenges, propane remains a practical choice for homes without gas line access. To ensure safety and efficiency, regular maintenance – like checking fuel lines and tank levels – is a must. Weighing these factors can help you decide if propane is the right fit for your standby generator needs.
