Home Backup Generator Buying Guide

A backup generator is a must-have for homeowners who live in areas that are prone to power outages. Investing in a generator can save you from the inconvenience of sitting in the dark without electricity or waiting for days for the power to be restored in case of a natural disaster or severe weather.

However, buying a backup generator is not as simple as walking into a store and picking the first one you come across. There are several factors to consider when purchasing a generator to ensure that it meets your specific needs and budget. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed buying decision:

1. Type of Fuel

The type of fuel used by a generator determines how efficient it is, how much power it can produce, and the cost of running it. The most common types of fuels used in generators include:

• Gasoline: Portable generators typically run on gasoline, which is widely available and affordable. However, gasoline has a short shelf life, and you need to use it within the first six months to ensure that it does not spoil. Also, it emits fumes that can be harmful if inhaled, and it's not as efficient as other fuels.
• Propane: Propane is a cleaner, more efficient fuel than gasoline, and it has a longer shelf life. It's also more readily available and safer to use. However, it's more expensive than gasoline and requires a certified technician to install the propane tank and ensure that the system runs safely.
• Natural Gas: Natural gas is the most efficient and cleanest fuel option for a generator. It's also cheaper than propane, and it's easy to access if you have a natural gas line. However, it requires a professional to install, and you need to have a natural gas line in your home, which can be costly to install.

2. Wattage

The wattage of a generator is a measure of the amount of power it can produce. The size of the generator you need depends on the appliances and electronics you want to power during an outage. A good rule of thumb is to add up the wattage of all the essential items you want to power, such as your refrigerator, lights, and water heater. This will give you an idea of the size of the generator you need.

3. Portability

Portability is an essential factor to consider, especially for those who want a portable generator. If you plan to move the generator around, you need to choose a unit that is lightweight, compact, and easy to maneuver. On the other hand, if you prefer a stationary generator, you can choose a larger unit that is permanently installed outside your home.

4. Noise Level

The noise level of a generator is also an important consideration, especially if you live in a residential area with noise restrictions. Portable generators tend to be noisier than stationary units, so you need to choose one with a noise level that is acceptable for your neighborhood. Look for generators with a decibel rating of 75 or lower.

5. Brand Reputation

The brand reputation of a generator is essential in determining its reliability, durability, and performance. Choose a reputable brand that has a proven track record of producing high-quality generators that are reliable and long-lasting. Some of the top brands in the market include Generac, Honda, Briggs & Stratton, and Kohler.

6. Price

Lastly, the price of the generator is an important consideration. Generators can be expensive, and the price depends on the size, type of fuel, brand, and features. However, it's essential to invest in a high-quality generator that meets your specific needs and budget to avoid compromising on performance and reliability.

Conclusion

A backup generator is a valuable investment for any homeowner who wants to ensure that their home remains powered during an outage. Choosing the right generator requires a careful consideration of the fuel type, wattage, portability, noise level, brand reputation, and price. By following the above guide, you can make an informed buying decision and choose a generator that is reliable, efficient, and long-lasting.

Home Backup Generator Buying Guide

A backup generator is a must-have for homeowners who live in areas that are prone to power outages. Investing in a generator can save you from the inconvenience of sitting in the dark without electricity or waiting for days for the power to be restored in case of a natural disaster or severe weather.

However, buying a backup generator is not as simple as walking into a store and picking the first one you come across. There are several factors to consider when purchasing a generator to ensure that it meets your specific needs and budget. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed buying decision:

1. Type of Fuel

The type of fuel used by a generator determines how efficient it is, how much power it can produce, and the cost of running it. The most common types of fuels used in generators include:

• Gasoline: Portable generators typically run on gasoline, which is widely available and affordable. However, gasoline has a short shelf life, and you need to use it within the first six months to ensure that it does not spoil. Also, it emits fumes that can be harmful if inhaled, and it's not as efficient as other fuels.
• Propane: Propane is a cleaner, more efficient fuel than gasoline, and it has a longer shelf life. It's also more readily available and safer to use. However, it's more expensive than gasoline and requires a certified technician to install the propane tank and ensure that the system runs safely.
• Natural Gas: Natural gas is the most efficient and cleanest fuel option for a generator. It's also cheaper than propane, and it's easy to access if you have a natural gas line. However, it requires a professional to install, and you need to have a natural gas line in your home, which can be costly to install.

2. Wattage

The wattage of a generator is a measure of the amount of power it can produce. The size of the generator you need depends on the appliances and electronics you want to power during an outage. A good rule of thumb is to add up the wattage of all the essential items you want to power, such as your refrigerator, lights, and water heater. This will give you an idea of the size of the generator you need.

3. Portability

Portability is an essential factor to consider, especially for those who want a portable generator. If you plan to move the generator around, you need to choose a unit that is lightweight, compact, and easy to maneuver. On the other hand, if you prefer a stationary generator, you can choose a larger unit that is permanently installed outside your home.

4. Noise Level

The noise level of a generator is also an important consideration, especially if you live in a residential area with noise restrictions. Portable generators tend to be noisier than stationary units, so you need to choose one with a noise level that is acceptable for your neighborhood. Look for generators with a decibel rating of 75 or lower.

5. Brand Reputation

The brand reputation of a generator is essential in determining its reliability, durability, and performance. Choose a reputable brand that has a proven track record of producing high-quality generators that are reliable and long-lasting. Some of the top brands in the market include Generac, Honda, Briggs & Stratton, and Kohler.

6. Price

Lastly, the price of the generator is an important consideration. Generators can be expensive, and the price depends on the size, type of fuel, brand, and features. However, it's essential to invest in a high-quality generator that meets your specific needs and budget to avoid compromising on performance and reliability.

7. Features

When choosing a backup generator, you also need to consider the different features it offers. Some common features you may want to look for include:

• Automatic Start/Stop: This feature ensures that the generator automatically starts when the power goes out and shuts off when the power is restored.
• Overload Protection: This feature protects the generator from damage due to excessive power demand.
• Wheel Kit: A wheel kit makes it easier to move the generator around, especially for portable units.
• Electric Start: This feature makes it easier to start the generator, especially for those who have difficulty pulling a recoil cord.
• Low Oil Shutdown: This feature shuts off the generator automatically when the oil level is too low to prevent engine damage.

Conclusion

A backup generator is a valuable investment for any homeowner who wants to ensure that their home remains powered during an outage. Choosing the right generator requires a careful consideration of the fuel type, wattage, portability, noise level, brand reputation, price, and features. By following the above guide, you can make an informed buying decision and choose a generator that is reliable, efficient, and long-lasting.