How to Choose the Best Backup Generator

Why You Need a Home Backup Generator

Imagine this scenario: You’re sitting at home, enjoying a quiet evening with your family, when suddenly the power goes out. The darkness envelops your surroundings, leaving you in complete disarray. Your dinner plans are ruined, and you realise that all the perishable food in your refrigerator is now at risk of spoiling. Moreover, without electricity, you and your loved ones are left without crucial amenities like heating or cooling systems, hot water, and even the ability to charge your phones.

Power outages can have significant implications for both your comfort and safety. They can be caused by severe weather conditions, utility failures, equipment malfunctions, or even accidents. No matter the cause, they disrupt our daily routines and leave us vulnerable.

Let’s say a strong storm hits your area, causing power lines to go down for several days. During such times of blackout, having a home backup generator can be a true lifesaver. Rather than being completely reliant on the unpredictable timeline of power restoration from the utility company, you can regain control over your household’s electricity supply.

A backup generator acts as an emergency power source that automatically kicks in when the main power supply fails. It is designed to provide electricity to critical appliances and systems in your home until regular power is restored. This means that you can keep essential appliances running, such as refrigerators, freezers, medical equipment, sump pumps, and HVAC systems.

Now that we understand the importance of having a home backup generator during power outages, let’s explore the role of backup power in more detail.

• Power outages can disrupt our daily routines, leaving us vulnerable and uncomfortable. Having a home backup generator can be a true lifesaver during blackouts caused by severe weather conditions, utility failures, equipment malfunctions, or accidents. It provides electricity to critical appliances and systems until regular power is restored, enabling us to keep essential appliances running such as refrigerators, freezers, medical equipment, sump pumps, and HVAC systems. Therefore, it is important to consider having a backup generator installed in our homes to maintain comfort and safety during power outages.

Backup power is not just about convenience; it’s about preserving our safety and well-being.

Backup power also enables us to maintain communication in times of crisis. With a generator powering our home, we can charge our phones and other devices, ensuring that we stay connected with emergency services and loved ones. This can be especially vital when facing natural disasters or other emergencies.

As we have now explored the significance of backup power during power outages and its role in maintaining comfort, safety, and communication, let’s move forward to understand the different types and features of backup generators available on the market.

• According to Grand View Research, the global market for diesel generators, a common type of backup generator, is expected to reach around $21.37 billion by 2025.
• A report from MarketsandMarkets indicates that the overall generator sales market is projected to grow at a rate of about 5.60% during the period 2017–2022.
• Data from Statista stated that in 2019, approximately 14% of homeowners in the United States had a backup generator.

Types and Features of Backup Generators

When it comes to choosing a backup generator for your home, understanding the different types and their features is essential. Backup generators can be categorised into two main types: standby generators and portable generators. Each type offers distinct benefits and features to consider.

Standby generators are permanent installations that operate automatically when a power outage occurs. These generators are connected to your home’s electrical system and powered by an external fuel source such as natural gas or propane. Standby generators can provide continuous power for an extended period, making them ideal for long-term power outages or homes that require uninterrupted power supply due to medical equipment or other critical needs.

Picture this scenario: You’re in the middle of a severe storm, and the power goes out. With a standby generator installed, you won’t even notice the disruption because it will kick in almost instantly, ensuring that your essential appliances like refrigerators, heating systems, and lights continue working without interruption.

On the other hand, portable generators offer flexibility and convenience. These generators are typically smaller and designed for temporary use. Portable generators run on gasoline or diesel fuel and need to be manually started during a power outage. They are easy to transport and can serve as a reliable source of backup power for short durations or specific appliances during emergencies or outdoor activities.

An example of when you might lean towards a portable generator is when you’re planning a camping trip in an area without access to electricity. In such cases, a portable generator can provide the necessary power for your camping equipment, lighting, and even small appliances like electric grills.

In addition to understanding the types of backup generators available, it’s crucial to consider the features they offer. Some key features to evaluate include:

1. Power capacity: Different backup generators come with varying wattage capacities. Assess your electrical needs during an outage and choose a generator that can handle the total load comfortably. It’s advisable to work with an electrician to determine your specific power requirements.
2. Automatic transfer switch: Standby generators typically include an automatic transfer switch, which senses power outages and switches on the generator automatically. This feature eliminates the need for manual intervention, ensuring a seamless transition to backup power.
3. Noise levels: Consider the noise produced by the generator during operation. Some models come with noise-reducing features or are designed to operate quietly, making them more suitable for residential areas or situations where noise pollution needs to be minimised.
4. Fuel efficiency: Look for generators that offer fuel-efficient operation, as this can save you money in the long run. Generators that consume less fuel while still providing adequate power output are preferred.

By understanding the different types of backup generators and their features, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Now that we have explored types and features of backup generators, let’s dive into understanding the key differences between long-term and portable generators.

On the other hand, portable generators are more versatile and designed for temporary use or when mobility is required. They run on gasoline or diesel fuel and must be manually started during a power outage. Portable generators are often used in situations where a temporary power source is needed, such as outdoor events, camping trips, or for powering specific appliances or tools.

Let’s say you live in an area prone to frequent power outages due to severe weather conditions, and you require constant access to electricity for medical equipment. In this case, a long-term generator like a standby generator would be the most suitable choice as it provides continuous power automatically without the need for manual intervention.

One key advantage of long-term generators is their ability to deliver higher power capacities, making them suitable for powering an entire house and supporting critical systems such as heating, cooling, and security. Portable generators, although smaller in size and power capacity, offer flexibility and portability that can be advantageous in temporary or mobile settings.

It’s important to note that long-term generators typically require professional installation by a licenced electrician to ensure proper integration with your home’s electrical system. Portable generators, on the other hand, can be easily transported and set up without professional assistance.

Ultimately, the choice between long-term and portable generators depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Consider factors such as power requirements, duration of use, mobility needs, and budget when making your decision.

Now that we have elucidated the key differences between long-term and portable generators, let’s move on to evaluating generator size and fuel type to further aid the selection process.