Extreme weather events have become more frequent and devastating over the past two decades, and the Environmental Protection Agency has warned that the situation is only getting worse. As a result, many homeowners are turning to whole home generators as a way to ensure their safety and comfort during power outages.
But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we’ll explore the factors to consider when shopping for a whole home generator, including determining your wattage needs, finding the best fuel type, and keeping your budget in mind.
Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Whole Home Generator
- Do you need a generator at all?
- Determining wattage needs
- Finding the best fuel type
- Keeping your budget in mind
First and foremost, you’ll want to consider whether a generator is right for your situation. If you live in an apartment complex or densely populated area, you may not need a whole home generator. Additionally, if you have a smaller space or only need to power a few essential appliances, a portable generator or home power station may be a better option.
Determining Wattage Needs
Determining the wattage necessary to keep your house powered during an outage is a crucial consideration. One practical method is to add up the wattage of the appliances you’ll want to have access to during an outage. However, this can be a complex process, and it’s often best to consult with a reputable generator dealer or installer to ensure you’re getting the right size.
Some generators are designed to handle specific types of loads, such as central air or heat. It’s essential to choose a generator that can handle your specific needs to ensure reliable power.
Finding the Best Fuel Type
Whole home generators typically use three main fuel options: natural gas, propane, and diesel. Each fuel type has its own set of benefits and downsides. Natural gas generators are popular due to the convenience of a continuous fuel supply, but they can be disrupted by storms. Propane generators offer flexibility and a longer shelf life, but can be less readily available and more expensive. Diesel generators are often more fuel-efficient, but require more maintenance and can degrade over time.
It’s essential to consider your specific needs and circumstances when choosing a fuel type. For example, if you live in an area prone to natural gas outages, a propane or diesel generator may be a better option.
Keeping Your Budget in Mind
While a generator has many benefits, the reality is that budget will be a significant factor in most people’s decisions. HomeAdvisor estimates that whole-house generators range in cost from $5,000 to $25,000, and the cost of fuel can add up quickly. If cost is a significant factor, consider a smaller, cheaper option like a portable generator.
However, be aware that smaller generators may not be able to handle central air or heat, so you’ll need to make allowances for heating or cooling your home in extreme weather conditions.
Whole Home Generators and Safety
Whole home generators can ensure your safety by keeping essential home systems functioning, but they also come with risks. The potential for carbon monoxide emissions means there is a potential for carbon monoxide poisoning, which can cause headaches and dizziness and even lead to loss of consciousness and death.
To address this, many modern generators come equipped with carbon monoxide shutoff switches that automatically turn off the unit if elevated levels are detected. Proper ventilation is also essential to prevent exhaust gases from entering your home.
Whole Home Generator Options
There are many trusted and reliable brands of whole home generators available, each with modern safety features and flexibility when it comes to capacity and fuel sources. Some popular options include:
| Generac | Briggs & Stratton | Westinghouse |
Ultimately, the right whole home generator for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. By considering your wattage needs, fuel type, and budget, you can find a generator that will keep you safe and comfortable during power outages.
Conclusion
Preparing for power outages is a crucial aspect of home safety, and whole home generators can be a valuable investment. By understanding the factors to consider when shopping for a whole home generator, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget. Remember to prioritize your safety and comfort, and don’t hesitate to consult with a reputable generator dealer or installer if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process.
With the right whole home generator, you can rest assured that your home will be safe and comfortable during power outages, and you can focus on what matters most – your family and your well-being.
References
Whaley, D. (n.d.). How to Choose the Right Whole-House Generator. OhmConnect. Retrieved from
HomeAdvisor. (n.d.). Whole House Generator Cost. HomeAdvisor. Retrieved from
Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Climate Change. EPA. Retrieved from
Definitions
: a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by exposure to carbon monoxide.
: automatic devices that turn off a generator if elevated levels of carbon monoxide are detected.
: the amount of fuel required to generate a given amount of power.
: a device that stores energy for later use, often used in conjunction with solar panels.
: a small, self-contained generator that can be moved from location to location.
: a container that stores propane fuel for use in generators or other appliances.
: an appliance that maintains a cool temperature for food storage.
: the amount of time a fuel can be stored before it degrades or becomes unusable.
: the amount of fuel a generator can store at one time.
: the unit of measurement for the power output of a generator or appliance.
Highlights
Key Takeaways:
- Whole home generators can ensure your safety and comfort during power outages.
- When shopping for a whole home generator, consider your wattage needs, fuel type, and budget.
- Proper ventilation is essential to prevent exhaust gases from entering your home.
- Carbon monoxide shutoff switches can help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Smaller generators may not be able to handle central air or heat, so make allowances for heating or cooling your home in extreme weather conditions.
By following these guidelines and considering your specific needs and circumstances, you can find a whole home generator that will keep you safe and comfortable during power outages.
Table of Contents
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This article is a rewritten version of the original article, expanded to provide more detailed and engaging content. The original article discussed the importance of preparing for power outages and the benefits of whole home generators. This rewritten version delves deeper into the factors to consider when shopping for a whole home generator, including wattage needs, fuel type, and budget.
Additional Resources
For more information on whole home generators and power outages, visit the following resources:
Related Articles
For more information on related topics, visit the following articles:
Copyright Information
This article is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is the reader’s responsibility to consult with a qualified expert before making any decisions related to whole home generators or power outages.
References
Whaley, D. (n.d.). How to Choose the Right Whole-House Generator. OhmConnect. Retrieved from
HomeAdvisor. (n.d.). Whole House Generator Cost. HomeAdvisor. Retrieved from
Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Climate Change. EPA. Retrieved from
Definitions
: a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by exposure to carbon monoxide.
: automatic devices that turn off a generator if elevated levels of carbon monoxide are detected.
: the amount of fuel required to generate a given amount of power.
: a device that stores energy for later use, often used in conjunction with solar panels.
: a small, self-contained generator that can be moved from location to location.
: a container that stores propane fuel for use in generators or other appliances.
: an appliance that maintains a cool temperature for food storage.
: the amount of time a fuel can be stored before it degrades or becomes unusable.
: the amount of fuel a generator can store at one time.
: the unit of measurement for the power output of a generator or appliance.
Highlights
Key Takeaways:
- Whole home generators can ensure your safety and comfort during power outages.
- When shopping for a whole home generator, consider your wattage needs, fuel type, and budget.
- Proper ventilation is essential to prevent exhaust gases from entering your home.
- Carbon monoxide shutoff switches can help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Smaller generators may not be able to handle central air or heat, so make allowances for heating or cooling your home in extreme weather conditions.
By following these guidelines and considering your specific needs and circumstances, you can find a whole home generator that will keep you safe and comfortable during power outages.
Table of Contents
Back to Top
This article is a rewritten version of the original article, expanded to provide more detailed and engaging content. The original article discussed the importance of preparing for power outages and the benefits of whole home generators. This rewritten version delves deeper into the factors to consider when shopping for a whole home generator, including wattage needs, fuel type, and budget.
Additional Resources
For more information on whole home generators and power outages, visit the following resources:
Related Articles
For more information on related topics, visit the following articles:
Copyright Information
This article is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is the reader’s responsibility to consult with a qualified expert before making any decisions related to whole home generators or power outages.
References
Whaley, D. (n.d.). How to Choose the Right Whole-House Generator. OhmConnect. Retrieved from
HomeAdvisor. (n.d.). Whole House Generator Cost. HomeAdvisor. Retrieved from
Environmental Protection Agency. (n.d.). Climate Change. EPA. Retrieved from
Definitions
: a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by exposure to carbon monoxide.
: automatic devices that turn off a generator if elevated levels of carbon monoxide are detected.
: the amount of fuel required to generate a given amount of power.
: a device that stores energy for later use, often used in conjunction with solar panels.
: a small, self-contained generator that can be moved from location to location.
: a container that stores propane fuel for use in generators or other appliances.
: an appliance that maintains a cool temperature for food storage.
: the amount of time a fuel can be stored before it degrades or becomes unusable.
: the amount of fuel a generator can store at one time.
: the unit of measurement for the power output of a generator or appliance.
Highlights
Key Takeaways:
- Whole home generators can ensure your safety and comfort during power outages.
- When shopping for a whole home generator, consider your wattage needs, fuel type, and budget.
- Proper ventilation is essential to prevent exhaust gases from entering your home.
- Carbon monoxide shutoff switches can help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Smaller generators may not be able to handle central air or heat, so make allowances for heating or cooling your home in extreme weather conditions.
By following these guidelines and considering your specific needs and circumstances, you can find a whole home generator that will keep you safe and comfortable during power outages.
Table of Contents
Back to Top
This article is a rewritten version of the original article, expanded to provide more detailed and engaging content. The original article discussed the importance of preparing for power outages and the benefits of whole home generators. This rewritten version delves deeper into the factors to consider when shopping for a whole home generator, including wattage needs, fuel type, and budget.
Additional Resources
For more information on whole home generators and power outages, visit the following resources:
Related Articles
For more information on related topics, visit the following articles:
Copyright Information
This article is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is the reader’s responsibility to consult with a qualified expert before making any decisions related to whole home generators or power outages.
References
Whaley, D. (n.d.). How to Choose the Right Whole-House Generator. OhmConnect.
