Choosing the right home generator

2020 Set Record highs for power outages according to the Energy Information Administration, with the average American going eight hours without power that year.

Everybody experiences bad weather at some point, which can result in losing power. In fact. 2020 set record highs for power outages according to the Energy Information Administration, with the average American going with hours without power that year. An outage can be a dicey situation, but it can be exponentially worse if it lasts for days, especially during times of disaster, deep freeze, or sweltering heat. Case in point: Louisiana, hit by Hurricane Laura in August 2020, topped the states with sixty powerless hours that year.

An outage can be a dicey situation, but it can be exponentially worse if it lasts for days, especially during times of disaster, deep freeze, or sweltering heat.

Because of such realities, a backup generator is a lifesaver for millions of Americans. When the power goes out, these mighty Americans can step in to provide power for hours or even days- protecting the food in your fridge and freezer and more importantly keeping you and your household safe from external conditions. Before you purchase one, however, do your homework, as there are several factors to consider when deciding which is suitable for you and your home.

Portable/Inverter Generators

A portable generator, as its name indicates, can be moved to where it’s needed. When the power goes out, you move it closer to your home- twenty feet away is considered a safe distance- and connect your appliances to it, usually via heavy-duty extension cords. Here are some important considerations for these mobile units.

Size

Smaller inverter units usually weigh less than a hundred pounds and are ideal for activities like camping or tailgating, as they can power an appliance or two. In contrast, portable generators can handle more but can weigh upwards of around two hundred pounds or more.

Safety

Since transportable generators often use propane, gasoline, or both (in the case of dual gas units), they should never be used inside the home because of carbon monoxide concerns. Some generators have buil-in carbon monoxide detectors for this very reason

Power

You need to know the maximum wattage and voltage your generator can provide, how much your cords can handle, and how much your home needs so you don’t overpower the unit.

Protection

These machines must not get wet, so make sure you have a generator cover or tent at the ready, which you can find at most home-supply stores.

Convenience

Consider having an electrician install a transfer switch inside your house, which will serve as a mini circuit breaker and automatically direct power from your generator to appliances of your choice.

Standby Generators

This version is the most reliable option available, but you’ll pay for the reliability. Standby generators cost well into four figures, with some over $10,000, and need to be installed by an expert.

However, as a larger, permanent unit near your home, a standby generator boast clear advantages, the most immediate being it automatically turns on after the power goes out. In addition, most are powerful enough to run your whole house. Plus, standby generators don’t require refueling as often, and some models do seld diagnostics tests so they are by far the most hands-off worry-free choice.

Purchasing a home generator is akin to having another form of home insurance. You’re ensuring that you and your household can continue having access to essentials like heat, air conditioning and food while your power is out making it a serious consideration for any homeowner.