Choosing the right generator for your home is a critical decision, especially if you live in an area prone to power outages or severe weather. A generator can provide you with backup power when you need it most, ensuring that essential appliances, lighting, and even heating and cooling systems remain operational during a blackout. With so many different types, sizes, and features available, it can be overwhelming to determine which generator is the best fit for your home.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a generator, the types of generators available, and how to ensure that your generator is properly installed and maintained for optimal performance.

Assess Your Power Needs

The first step in choosing the right generator is to assess your power needs. Generators come in various sizes, and selecting the correct size depends on the appliances and systems you need to power during an outage. Start by making a list of essential items you want to keep running when the electricity goes out.

Common appliances to consider include:

• Refrigerators and freezers: Keeping food from spoiling is a top priority during an extended power outage. Heating and cooling systems: Maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home is crucial, especially in extreme weather conditions.

• Lights: Basic lighting in critical areas of the home, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living room, can help keep your home safe and functional.

• Water heaters: For homes with electric water heaters, a generator can ensure access to hot water during an outage.

• Medical devices: If you or a family member rely on medical equipment, ensuring that these devices remain powered is essential.

Once you have your list, you can calculate how much power (measured in watts) these items require to run. This will help you determine the generator’s capacity, which is expressed in watts or kilowatts (kW). It’s important to choose a generator that provides enough power to meet your needs without overloading the system.

Types of Generators

There are two main types of generators to consider: portable generators and standby (or whole-house) generators. Each has its advantages and drawbacks, depending on your needs and preferences.

• Portable Generators: These are smaller, more affordable generators that can be moved around as needed. They are typically powered by gasoline or propane and can be used to power essential appliances through extension cords. Portable generators are ideal for shorter outages or when you only need to power a few key items. However, they require manual operation, including refueling, and they don’t provide automatic backup power.

• Standby Generators: These are permanently installed generators that automatically turn on when the power goes out. Standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane and are connected directly to your home’s electrical system. They provide seamless, automatic power for the entire house or specific circuits, depending on the model and your power needs. While standby generators are more expensive than portable options, they offer greater convenience, reliability, and power capacity.

Fuel Type

Generators run on different fuel types, and each has its pros and cons:

• Gasoline: Gasoline-powered generators are standard in portable models. While gasoline is widely available, it can be difficult to store for long periods, especially in large quantities, and may not be available during lengthy outages.

• Propane: Propane is a cleaner-burning fuel that is often used in both portable and standby generators. It has a longer shelf life than gasoline and can be stored in large tanks. However, it may require more storage space and is typically more expensive.

• Natural Gas: Standby generators are often powered by natural gas, which is convenient because it’s connected directly to your home’s gas line. Natural gas is reliable and doesn’t require refueling, but it may not be available in all areas.

• Diesel: Diesel generators are known for their fuel efficiency and long runtimes. They are typically used in larger, more powerful commercial models, but they can be noisy and require proper fuel storage.

When deciding on the best fuel type for your generator, consider the availability and price of fuel in your area and your preferences for long-term fuel storage and maintenance. 

Key Features to Look For

When choosing a generator, look for features that will improve its functionality, ease of use, and safety:

• Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): For standby generators, an ATS allows the generator to automatically switch on when it detects a power outage and switch off when power is restored. This eliminates the need for manual intervention and provides seamless power backup.

• Inverter Technology: Some portable generators come with inverter technology, which produces cleaner, more stable power. Inverters are especially important for sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and medical devices.

• Noise Level: Generators can be noisy, especially larger or portable models. If noise is a concern, look for generators designed for quiet operation, or consider installing the generator away from living spaces.

• Wheels and Portability: If you choose a portable generator, look for models with wheels and handles to make transportation easier. Keep in mind that larger generators can be heavy and difficult to move without assistance.

• Cold Weather Kits: For homes in colder climates, a cold weather kit is essential for ensuring your generator operates smoothly during the winter. These kits include features like battery warmers and oil heaters to prevent freezing and ensure reliable starting in cold temperatures.

Benefits of Professional Generator Installation

While portable generators can be operated without professional installation, standby generators should always be installed by a licensed electrician. A professional installation ensures that your generator is connected safely to your home’s electrical system, preventing overloads and potential hazards.

A licensed electrician will also ensure that your generator is up to code and meets local regulations. This step is essential for homes with larger power needs, as improper installation can lead to dangerous situations like backfeeding, which occurs when power flows back into the grid and poses a risk to utility workers.

Generator Maintenance

Routine maintenance is vital to keeping your generator in top condition and ready for action when needed. Regularly inspect your generator for wear and tear, check the fuel levels, and replace any worn-out parts. Many standby generators come with built-in self-diagnostic systems that alert you to maintenance needs, but portable generators require manual checks.

It’s also a good idea to run your generator periodically, even when there’s no outage, to keep the engine lubricated and ensure everything is functioning properly.

Find the Right Generator for Your Home

For professional generator installation and maintenance, contact Thomas Edison Electric. Our licensed electricians can help you select the perfect generator for your home and ensure it's installed correctly to provide reliable backup power whenever you need it.