Home Generator will Keep You out of the Dark

Winter is here, and if you don’t currently own a functional home generator, it might be time to make the investment for your family. Snowstorms and blizzards can cause extensive failure of the power grid. Families that have needs for continuous electrical supply, such as elderly with in-home care, or families with newborn babies, will have a hard time if they lose power for an extended period of time.

The Benefits of Having a Home Generator

There are a couple different types of generators – portable ones for a hours power of a single device, and standby home generators with larger capabilities. Standby generators are different from the portable generators you may be familiar with. They’re typically installed on a concrete pad in your yard and are connected to an independent fuel supply, such as natural gas or diesel. They can provide extended power for days; the smaller ones can power a few circuits at a time, while the larger ones (the size of a Smart car) can power a whole house for several days. When a disconnection from the main power grid is detected, the standby generator kicks on; once main power is restored, the unit will automatically shut off.

There are a few things to keep in mind before making an expensive investment in a large standby home generator. First, check your city’s code. Many municipalities restrict the number and size of generators that are able to be installed within city limits. This is due to noise ordinances, building codes (generators are usually required to be at least 5 feet from the structure), and the potential for complications from the generator’s fuel tank placement.

Installing a standby generator isn’t a DIY project for the weekend warrior. These require installation by a qualified professional with plumbing and electrical knowledge. You’ll also need a working knowledge of city building codes. The professional you hire for a consultation will also determine the load your generator needs to provide, and whether your secondary power supply can handle it. Finally, generators require a lot of maintenance – both preventative and occasional repairs. Due to their continuous use and the need for them to be responsive at all times, maintenance for these should occur on a regular basis, just as you would service your car.

If you have a need for continuous power and live somewhere that you experience or anticipate power outages, contact us at Tim Kyle Electrical Service to schedule an appointment. We have the proper training, experience, and tools to do the job right. To learn more about hot outlets, get in touch with Tim Kyle Electric. You can talk to an expert about new installations of lighting and wiring, among other things, for your home or business.