Get A Residential Generator So Your Home Systems Keep Running During A Power Outage
Posted on: 24 February 2022
If you've ever had to struggle through a long power outage after a storm, you know what a major inconvenience it is to be without power. If it's summer, you get hot fast, and your food goes bad if your refrigerator has no power.
A portable gasoline generator might help, but those are inconvenient to use, and they're also dangerous if not used properly. The solution for this situation is to have a residential standby generator installed. Here's how it works.
You'll Need A Gas Hookup
A residential generator installation requires natural gas or propane to operate. Since the electricity is out, the generator needs an alternative source of power to run. You won't have to worry about hauling gallons of gasoline back from the gas station because a standby generator only operates on propane or natural gas, which makes things much more convenient for you.
The Generator Is Always On Standby
Unlike a portable generator that you have to set up each time you need it, a standby generator is installed once and then it's always standing by and ready to kick on when there is a loss of power. The generator is connected to your electrical panel so it can supply power to the circuits you want operational, such as your refrigerator, lights, and HVAC.
An Electrician Installs Your Generator
Since the generator is hooked up to your electrical panel, a residential generator installation has to be done by an electrician. The installation requires a transfer switch so the system knows if the power is coming from the generator or electrical panel. This lets the generator know when to turn on and off.
The Generator Turns On By Itself
A great thing about a standby generator is that it turns on all by itself. If the power goes out in the middle of the night, you know your important systems will keep running until the power comes back on, and then the generator turns itself off. Automatic operation is convenient any time, but it's especially helpful in the winter since you won't have to go outside in the bitter cold just to start up a generator.
You don't have to do much to enjoy the convenience of a generator unless you have a prolonged outage that lasts several days. In that case, you might need to service the generator to keep it working, so it's important that you understand how your generator works and how to maintain it.
In addition, you'll want regular maintenance on your generator, just like you do with an HVAC or other home appliance. Maintenance ensures your generator is always ready to go and is safe to operate.
For more information about generator installations, contact a local electrician.
Share