A 2022 report by Electrek showed that only 15% of American homes had backup power sources like standby generators. Even with these statistics, the demand for reliable backup power in U.S. homes continues to grow.
Blackouts happen unannounced, and they may cause damage like food spoilage. They can also stop security systems from functioning, making your home vulnerable to break-ins. That's why a reliable generator is more than a convenience - it's a necessity.
But before buying a generator, it's good to know what to ask to avoid making wrong decisions. Uncover the essential generator questions to ask before making a purchase.
Why Do I Need It?
This is one of the standby generator buying questions that will help you determine the generator's purpose. Your purpose will affect other factors, such as size and your budget.
It's good to first determine what the generator will be powering. If you want a standby generator to back up your home, calculate the wattage of all the available appliances, including:
● Washing machines and dryers
● Refrigerators
● Cookers
● Electronics like TVs and subwoofers
● Lighting
● Water heaters
● Security systems
Also, consider how frequently you'll use the generator. You may need it for a long-term power supply or short-term power outages.
How Much Does It Cost?
Understanding the total cost of a generator will help you plan a fitting budget. The costs cover everything, from the pricing and transportation to installation.
Take time to compare generator prices from several sellers before deciding. This will help you determine what you can afford so you can potentially save some money.
Request that the seller give you an estimate of the long-term costs of ownership. These include:
● Fuel costs
● Maintenance and servicing costs
● Insurance costs
If you have a limited budget, consider a refurbished unit. However, don't buy a used generator before testing it to ensure that it's in good condition.
Consider purchasing a generator when demand is lower. For instance, spring and early summer are off-season when you can find a good generator at an affordable price.
Don't forget to ask about discounts and rebates. They're a good way of getting a high-quality generator for less.
What Fuel Does It Use?
The type of fuel a generator uses can determine its overall operational efficiency and runtime. To make the right choice, research the pros and cons of each fuel.
Some types of fuel used by home generators include:
● Diesel
● Gasoline
● Propane
● Natural gas
Diesel is an ideal option because it's readily available. It's also more fuel efficient and has a longer engine lifespan. However, it's quite costly and releases more carbon emissions.
Gasoline is widely available and more affordable than diesel. It's ideal for small-sized and portable home generators. It's, however, less fuel efficient with a shorter shelf life.
Propane produces lower emissions and promotes quieter generator operations. It's a good choice if you have an external tank or regulator. Its low density causes it to reduce a generator's runtime.
Natural gas doesn't need extra storage and is also readily available. It's not ideal for portable generators.
Your generator purchase tips should include the best fuel qualities. Factors to help you buy quality fuel for your generator include:
● Safety and storage
● Cost
● Sustainability
● Availability and delivery
● Environmental impact
How Loud Is It?
A loud generator will make your home uncomfortable for everyone, including the pets. If you live in an area with noise restrictions, you may get fined by authorities.
Loud generators can also lead to complaints from neighbors. This isn't something you want.
Quieter generators are more fuel efficient. They also produce cleaner power output, helping you promote environmental sustainability.
Before buying a generator, get it tested. Compare the noise it produces when idle and when operating at full power.
Don't forget to read the generator's decibel ratings. Lower ratings reflect lower noise levels, and vice versa.
Read the generator's manual to understand its noise levels. Researching the brand online and reading reviews from other owners can also enlighten you about a generator's noise levels.
What Size of a Generator Do I Need?
The power output of a generator determines its size. Buying the right-sized generator helps prevent electrical overload and safety hazards.
An overly large generator consumes a lot of energy, spiking your monthly electricity bills. It may also be costlier than a small-sized one.
With the right-sized home generator, you won't have to worry about power surges. This can help prevent unexpected damage to other sensitive devices like microwaves and TVs.
In addition to power output, other factors that can determine a generator's size include:
● Usage requirements
● The type of fuel it consumes
● Starting vs. running watts
● Portability
Portable generators are likely to be smaller in size than standby home generators. The available sizes of generators include:
● Small-sized generators (portable generators)
● Medium-sized generators (home backup and business use)
● Large generators (large commercial and residential use)
● Extra-large generators (factories and hospitals)
Does It Have a Warranty?
Your generator may unexpectedly fail immediately after purchase. Therefore, this should be among the key questions to ask before buying it.
A warranty will cover repair costs in case of performance issues. Generator warranties also come with quality maintenance services. You can get your generator diagnosed and repaired without incurring high costs.
Some warranties to inquire about when buying a standby generator include:
● Parts and labor warranty
● Manufacturer's warranty
● Installation warranty
● Extended warranty
What Are the Available Safety Features?
A standby home generator with functional safety features can help prevent:
● Fire hazards
● Carbon monoxide poisoning
● Electrical shocks
● Appliance damage
Buy a generator with a carbon monoxide sensor. Other safety features to consider include:
● Automatic low oil shutoff
● Circuit breaker protection
● Remote start and auto-transfer Switch
● Spark arrestor
● Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Outlets
Buying a Generator: The Ultimate Guide to a Reliable Home Power Backup
Buying a generator isn't just about power - it's also about peace of mind. Asking the right questions enables you to compare your options, which is key to finding a reliable generator.
If you need a consistent power source for your home or business, get in touch today. We provide premiere generator services, which include installation and servicing of all makes and models. Our quality generators include residential, commercial standby, and portable generators.