Is Your Home Prepared For Power Outages?

November 15, 2024      

Hire a top-rated generator installation service for your home to stay up and running even in the event of a power outage, blackouts or utility shortages.

Whole House

Also known as a home standby generator, the whole house generator can keep all of your appliances running, the lights on and your HVAC system working, in an emergency. Most whole home generators can be connected to the existing fuel supply at your home, such as natural gas or propane. Some whole home generators have a backup power source, such as solar or gasoline, to ensure that the machine can run even without fuel from your home. Newer generators usually connect to an app so you can run regular checks on the generator. If you live in an area where natural disasters like hurricanes or strong storms frequently knock out your power, a whole home generator is a good investment.

Expect a hefty price tag with this type of generator. You’ll be paying for the generator itself as well as installation and yearly maintenance to ensure that the generator is working properly. Most whole home generators are large and will take up more space than a standard air conditioner.

Pros

• In an emergency, will turn on automatically
• Can power an entire home
• Connected to your home circuit board so no need for extension cords
• Will connect to your existing fuel line
• esigned to run for a long time

Cons

• Expensive
• Take up a lot of space
• Requires yearly maintenance
• Can be noisy

Gasoline Generator

A gasoline generator is the most common type of generator and is a great option for lower-powered appliances and tools. When it comes to costs, gasoline generators tend to be the least expensive, but over time, the cost of the gas is more expensive than other fuels.

While gas is readily available, this may not be the case during an emergency. Storing gasoline in an airtight container is only safe for three to six months. If a fuel stabilizer is added, the gas is safe to use for up to three years.

Pros

• Tend to be the least expensive generators
• Gas is readily available
• Easiest type of generator to find
• Quieter than diesel generators

Cons

• High emissions
• Gas is more expensive than other fuels
• Highly flammable
• Can only be used outdoors

Diesel Generator

Diesel generators work well in tough conditions, like freezing temperatures. These types of generators are more durable because the low burning temperature of diesel puts less strain on the engine. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient than gasoline generators, so you’ll spend less money over time on the diesel generator.

However, these generators tend to be heavier, and thus, less portable. Also, diesel generators produce harmful emissions that can be toxic if inhaled.

Pros

• Runs more efficiently than gasoline
• Cheaper to operate than gasoline
• Has a longer lifespan

Cons

• Harmful emissions
• Can only be used outdoors
• More expensive than gasoline generators
• Noisy

Natural Gas Generator

Generators that run on natural gas produce less emissions than gasoline and diesel. Natural gas generators are typically the most cost-effective and don’t require any storage since the natural gas is delivered through gas pipelines.

The initial setup of a natural gas generator, as well as the maintenance, can be expensive. However, with regular maintenance, they are very durable. Since the generator is reliant on natural gas, if the supply is cut off during an emergency, the generator will not work

Pros

• Low emissions
• Cleaner fuel
• Can be connected to existing pipeline

Cons

• Maintenance costs are high
• Cannot be used indoors
• Higher installation costs

If you are considering buying a generator, contact South Shore Generator Sales & Service and get started on your backup power plans!

Source: forbes.com

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