Home Generator FAQs
Home generators convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, by using propane or natural gas. This process generates electricity to power your home's circuits during outages.
Portable generators are mobile units that require manual setup and fueling, often used for specific appliances. Whole-house generators are permanently installed systems that automatically activate during power outages to supply electricity to your entire home. Read more about them both!
The cost of installing a whole-house generator can vary significantly depending on several key factors. These include the generator's size and capacity, the type of fuel it uses (such as propane, natural gas, or diesel), and the complexity of the installation process itself. For instance, larger generators designed to power an entire home typically involve more intricate electrical work and specialized components, which can increase overall expenses. Additionally, your home's existing electrical system, local permitting requirements, and whether the installation involves modifications like gas line extensions or additional wiring can also affect the total installation cost. Get a quote today!
Regular maintenance is essential every 6 months for keeping your home generator operating reliably during power outages. Typical maintenance tasks include regularly checking and changing oil to maintain engine efficiency, replacing air and fuel filters to ensure optimal combustion, and inspecting and replacing spark plugs to keep ignition consistent. Additionally, it's important to periodically examine the battery and connections, perform load tests to verify generator performance, and check hoses, belts, and cooling systems to prevent overheating. Always adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and guidelines, as timely servicing not only prolongs the generator’s lifespan but also ensures it's ready when you need it most.
Yes, a properly sized whole-house generator can power your entire home seamlessly during a power outage. To achieve this, the generator must have sufficient capacity to handle your household's total electrical load, including appliances, HVAC systems, lighting, and electronics. Because sizing the generator correctly is critical, it's beneficial to have a professional assessment conducted to calculate your home's precise power demands and recommend a generator tailored to your specific needs. This ensures uninterrupted comfort and safety, providing full confidence that your generator can reliably supply electricity throughout your home whenever power disruptions occur.
Home generators typically run on several common fuel types, including gasoline, propane (LP), natural gas, and diesel, each with distinct advantages and considerations. Gasoline generators are widely accessible but require careful fuel storage and regular replacement to maintain freshness. Propane generators offer clean-burning fuel, ease of storage, and excellent shelf life, making them convenient for many homeowners. Natural gas generators can directly connect to existing gas lines, providing continuous fuel supply without the need for on-site storage. Diesel generators are often chosen for their durability, fuel efficiency, and longevity, especially suitable for heavy-duty or continuous use. When selecting the best fuel option for your home generator, consider factors like fuel availability in your area, ease of maintenance, storage requirements, and your generator’s intended use.
The continuous runtime of a home generator depends primarily on fuel type, capacity, and overall design. Natural gas generators can often run indefinitely, provided there's an uninterrupted supply of fuel from the utility line. Propane and diesel generators typically run as long as fuel remains available in the storage tank, with the runtime extending proportionally to tank size. However, many manufacturers recommend periodically shutting down the generator to inspect fluid levels, perform routine maintenance checks, and prevent overheating or mechanical strain. Continuous operation without periodic downtime or inspections may accelerate wear and shorten the generator’s lifespan. Always consult your generator’s user manual and adhere to recommended runtime guidelines to ensure safe, effective operation.
Permit requirements vary by location. It's essential to consult local building codes and regulations to determine if a permit is necessary for installation.
Operating your home generator safely is crucial to protect your household from common hazards such as carbon monoxide poisoning, fire risks, and electrical shock. Essential safety practices include positioning the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and air intakes to prevent carbon monoxide buildup indoors. Installing carbon monoxide detectors inside your home offers an additional critical safeguard. Regularly inspect your generator for leaks, worn cables, or damaged components, and never refuel while the generator is running or still hot. Follow all manufacturer instructions meticulously for installation, operation, maintenance, and storage to ensure your generator remains a reliable and safe backup power source.