7 Questions to Ask Before You Install a Generator in Your Home
Since 2015, power outages have risen by 60%, which explains why more households are investing in generators.
As there are so many models available, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one for your home and budget. But if you rush the decision process, you could end up with a generator that won’t power your home during an outage.
If you know little about generators and want to know the basics, you’ve come to the right place. Here are seven questions to ask before installing a generator.
Table of Contents
1. Which Type of Generator is the Best?
Familiarizing yourself with the different types of generators will help narrow down your options.
The first is a home standby generator, which is a lifesaver if you need an emergency backup. This will kick into gear whenever your power goes out, giving you peace of mind.
Or you may prefer a portable generator. As the name suggests, these are smaller, so you can move them around the property. Ideally, these generators should be around 20 feet from your home as a safety precaution and for optimal power.
2. What Size Do You Need?
Another useful question is figuring out how much electricity you need. The frequency and length of power outages are difficult to predict, so you want a backup power generator that will operate for a long time.
To help you choose the right option, decide which appliances you need to operate during a power outage because you likely don't need many on at once.
Because portable generators are smaller, these are best if you need 3,000 to 8,000 watts. In contrast, a standby residential generator runs anywhere between 5,000 to 20,000 watts, making them perfect for properties with a large furnace.
Aside from energy demand, decide how long you need the generator to run. If you're in a storm-prone area or often experience blackouts, a standby generator is your best bet.
3. Which Fuel Type Should You Use?
Your choice of fuel will determine the type of generator.
Propane is the most popular for emergency generators, and because you have an external tank, you can store a large amount of fuel, so you're always prepared. The beauty of propane is that it's more energy efficient than other options.
Natural gas is another possibility, but this is provided by your local utility company. You'll still get access to power during an outage, but you'll have to pay the provider's rates.
Another popular option is gasoline generators.
These are great because they are lightweight and produce high levels of electricity, making them the go-to for residential use. Gasoline generators are also easy to maintain; simply check the oil level and candles to extend their lifespan. But because their engine must be constantly air-cooled, you must change the oil frequently and wait for it to cool down for at least 48 hours.
Homeowners can also choose a diesel generator. A major perk is that they can run non-stop for several weeks before changing the oil. They also last 20 times longer than other options out there.
Although it's deemed a safer option, as it's less flammable, you must keep a supply ready and replace it often as it has a short shelf-life.
4. Where Will You Put the Generator?
Before installing a generator, decide where it should go, especially if it's permanent.
The key is to leave enough room around it, so it's easy to access, and make sure it's not near a window or entryway into your home. Note, the type of fuel will influence where you can install the generator. For instance, if you choose a natural gas generator, your utility provider will change your meter and add additional gas pipes to accommodate it.
5. Can You Install a Generator Yourself?
Generator installation is tricky, and it should always be done by an experienced professional. To install a standby generator, you must handle electrical wiring, plumbing, and potentially natural gas components, so it should never be a DIY job.
These contractors will ensure that there's a permit and will meet local or standard code requirements.
6. Any Safety Information to Consider?
Although generators are generally safe, there are rules to take on board.
A major one is never running a portable generator inside your home. Because most run on gas or oil, they emit carbon monoxide, which could have fatal consequences. Regardless of the weather conditions, always store your generators outside.
If you choose a portable generator, let it run for several minutes before adding appliances one by one. For fuel-based generators, never add fuel when it's running, and wait 20 minutes after you've switched it off to cool down. Otherwise, you could potentially start a fire that could be catastrophic.
The generator should always be cool before you drain the fuel, which is a crucial step to protect the machine's carburetor.
7. Is There a Warranty?
Like with any major investment, only buy a generator that comes with a warranty.
Make sure you read the fine print because many manufacturers limit it to emergency use. This means that, if you have a portable generator, you can't use them to go off-grid or for your next camping trip. You'll likely notice this statement on natural gas, propane, and gasoline generators.
Hire Professionals to Install a Generator Today
Now that you understand the basics, it's time to hire a professional to install a generator on your property.
There are many factors to consider, such as figuring out your needs and choosing the most fuel-efficient generator for your property. Homeowners should also decide where to place the machine and always get it professionally installed for safety reasons.
If you need help installing a generator, we'd love to help. Contact us here to learn more.
FAQs
What do I need to know before installing a generator?
Before getting a generator installed, you need to know the type of generator (we recommend Generac since they are #1 for whole home generators.) You also need to know what size generator you need and what fuel type (gas or propane) works best for your home.
For installation purposes, you need to know where you want the generator installed and who is going to install it (for a Generac generator, work with a Generac-certified dealer to preserve the warranty).
how do I prepare my house for a generator?
Prepare your house for a generator by…
Finding a certified installation expert
Reviewing the electrical system
Choosing the right home backup generator
Choosing a warranty and maintenance plan
Finding the optimal location
can you install a whole house generator yourself?
Generator installation is tricky, and it should always be done by an experienced professional. To install a standby generator, you must handle electrical wiring, plumbing, and potentially natural gas components, so it should never be a DIY job.
These contractors will ensure that there's a permit and will meet local or standard code requirements.
how much does it cost to add a whole house generator?
The average cost of a home standby generator is between $8,000 and $15,000, depending on the size and type.
If this exceeds your out-of-pocket budget, work with a dealer who offers financing options that fit your financial situation.
where should a whole house generator be installed?
The installation process typically involves anchoring them to a prefabricated concrete pad. Moving the generator after installation would be quite a hassle.
It should be situated in a spot that is:
Easily accessible to the electrician for installation and maintenance (ideally, close the utility box).
Won’t send carbon monoxide exhaust into the home through an open window, door, or vent
Far enough away from bedrooms to avoid extra noise.