Home Backup Generator FAQs

March 17, 2023      

What is an automatic backup generator?

An automatic backup generator is a backup electrical system that operates whether you are home or away. Within seconds of an outage, it automatically supplies power directly to your home’s electrical circuit breaker box. After utility power returns, the generator shuts itself off and waits for the next outage. It operates on natural gas or liquid propane gas and sits outside just like a central air conditioning unit.

Why should I buy an automatic backup generator instead of a portable generator?

During a utility power outage, an automatic backup generator provides numerous advantages over a portable generator:

• The American Red Cross recommends permanently installed backup generators as a safer way to provide backup power to a home than a portable generator.
• With an automatic backup generator properly installed outside, your home is protected from deadly carbon monoxide poisoning that is a much greater risk with portable generators.
• Running on the home’s natural gas or LP fuel supply, it is less expensive to run than gasoline and sources such as natural gas do not need to be refilled.
• They start automatically within seconds of a power outage, and eliminate the need to haul a portable generator outside or run extension cords throughout your home.
• They provide protection 24/7, whether you’re home or away, and they turn themselves off when utility power returns, so there is no need to monitor the unit during an outage.

How do I correctly size a generator for my home?

The most logical way to determine your needs is to envision your home without power. Some outages may be short in duration, while others could last for days or weeks. What would your family miss during an outage? With some basic information, you can determine an estimated size by using a Generator Sizing Calculator.

The very best way to understand your options and work within your budget is to schedule a free in-home assessment. During your consultation, you will receive the personalized attention and detailed evaluation you need to find a solution that works for your needs.

With the broadest product line available, essential circuit coverage starts with the economically priced Generac PowerPact™ Series. Other systems are available to cover virtually any application:

• Essential Circuit Coverage – Generac takes the guesswork out of sizing by offering prepackaged Guardian Series generator systems. The generator is paired with a transfer switch containing a predetermined number of circuits based on the generator’s kW power rating. Each circuit is directly connected to a matched circuit on the home’s main circuit breaker panel, providing electricity to that specific appliance or area of the home.
• Managed Whole House Coverage – You can get more coverage with less generator, up to whole house coverage, by pairing a smaller generator with one of Generac’s load shedding options. This creates a managed power solution where non-essential circuits are shed when the generator approaches maximum capacity. They are cycled back on when essential circuits no longer require power, so all circuits receive power at different times.
• Complete Whole House Coverage – Easily cover every circuit in your home by pairing one of Generac’s larger kW units and the proper transfer switch to provide full coverage. No circuit is ever left uncovered, so every appliance is available every minute.

What is the difference between an automatic air-cooled generator and an automatic liquid-cooled generator?

The engines! Air-cooled generators come with engines that use fans to force air across the engine for cooling, while liquid-cooled generators use enclosed radiator systems for cooling, similar to an automobile. Generally, liquid-cooled engines are used on larger kW generators due to the larger engines required for the higher power output.

Can my home backup unit be set up to run on LP and NG?

No. Our Generac home backup generators are designed to run on one fuel source. They are factory set to run on natural gas, however; at the time of installation, your generator can be reconfigured to run on liquid propane.

What size gas line do I need?

We recommend contacting your gas provider, or a licensed plumber, and they will be able to size the gas line for you. Gas pipe size will depend on length of run from the source and how many elbows and T’s there are.

Every home is different, and so is every installation. The placement of the generator, the amount of materials required, and the installation of the natural gas or LP fuel source all make estimating installation costs unique. A simple installation might cost about $2,000, but it can be more than that depending upon your specific situation. The best way to know for sure is to get a free in-home assessment. They will listen to your needs, assess your home, and give you a detailed quote. All at no charge, with no obligation, and no pressure. We also encourage you to use our Sizer Calculator to make sure you are getting the generator that is best for you and your needs!

Contact South Shore Generator Sales & Service today for more information.

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