One of the most important appliances to buy for your home may be an electric generator, particularly when you live in a place that is susceptible to severe seasonal storms. This device can supply electricity to a home during power outages. During emergencies, you can continue to use essential appliances like air conditioners, heaters, refrigerators, and also lights. Precisely speaking, electric generators are devices that will convert mechanical energy into electric energy. In electric generators for a house, the mechanical energy is created by a small engine.
Since we all live on a delicate circuit with power lines that are above the ground, all it takes to leave you without power is for one tree to fall. Of course, if it is only one tree, then more than likely the electric company will have your power back on within minutes or possibly hours because the power can be re-routed through the grid or an electric crew can be sent out to get you back online. When thousands of trees go down (like in a hurricane) then it can be weeks before the electricity is back on.
Today people are so dependent on electricity it is challenging for them to go without it for hours, much less days or weeks. Not too many years ago, the thought of owning an electric generator to power your house was only for the rich or businesses and hospitals. Those were the ones that could afford it or could not live without one. Not anymore! Like most commodities over time, the generator is now more affordable. Gasoline versions range in price from $500 to $2500. These have enough charging power for the essential appliances in your house for a short time.
Things to Consider When Buying Electric Generators
With so many selections to choose from, making a choice about which style is right for your needs can be challenging. There are a number of things you should consider before you purchase an electric generator. Take the following steps to assure a perfect fit for your necessities, and then you will be ready to weather out the next severe storm that hits your area.
Before you even study the type of generator you need for your house, find out what size generator that is needed.
If you want a permanently installed electric generator, then you will have a few possibilities for fuel. Your choice will be decided by the fuel that is available in the area.
- Propane
- Natural gas
- Gas-fueled - This type is most frequently found in portable generators
- Diesel-fueled - This type requires a large holding tank which will have to be filled by a diesel delivery truck.
Another feature to consider is the type of cooling system. This is important because generators will create a lot of heat when they are operating.
- Air cooled electrical generators
- Liquid cooled electric generators - More expensive, but more quiet, dependable, and efficient
Your generator will make noise when it is running. This is impacted by the RPM of the motor. The most common motors will run at:
- 1800 RPM - Quieter and last longer
- 3600 RPM - Lighter and more compact
Choose a name brand (at least a recognizable name) that actually makes the electric generator's motor. This is important for replacement parts.
Home generators can be portable or stationary. Also these machines may run on different fuels, like gasoline, diesel, natural gas, and liquefied petroleum gas. There are advantages and disadvantages for each type of fuel and each type of generator.
- Portable gas generators
These are relatively inexpensive, but you have to refill the tank several times during a day. This won't be suitable for long term because gas pumps might not work in a widespread blackout.
- Permanent standby generator
This is connected to the house wiring and a fuel source. It can start quickly.
Installation of Your New Home Electrical Generator
Do you want a generator that has to be installed? Generally, a stationary generator will be mounted outdoors on a cement pad, and if at all possible it should be placed close to the fuel source. Many electric generators will come with a mounting pad, but you will still have to prepare a site that is flat and has the provisions for water drainage.
You should locate the unit in an area that is well-ventilated area and away from the doors or the windows so exhaust gases won't enter the house. Due to the substantial weight of the some electric generator, you may need to request a lift gate service when the freight company informs you of delivery time.
It is important to consider the electric generator installation. Even if you choose the best type of generator, the full value will be achieved only if it is properly installed. To guarantee proper installation, look for a certified electric generator contractor that serves Contra Costa County in the major cities of Concord, Richmond, Antioch, Walnut Creek, and Pittsburg, as well as the smaller towns Alamo, Antioch, Clayton, Clyde, El Sobrante, Morago, Point Richmond, and Tara Hills.
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