Key Takeaways:
- Power outages are a pain and can cause significant problems
- A home generator is a great way to make sure you’re never without power
- Make sure to do your research before you buy a generator!
- Purpose, fuel type, power requirement, and budget are all critical factors to consider
Do you live in Texas? Then you might have faced frequent power outages. State media has reported that four million residents have suffered power outages over the past few years.
Thunderstorms and weather changes mainly cause these blackouts. Although the state government has addressed the problem, that doesn’t mean blackouts won’t happen.
Like most homeowners, you probably don’t think much about the home’s backup power until there’s a storm and the power goes out. And even then, you might only consider whether you have a generator. But what if you could have a whole-house generator that would keep your home running no matter what? Core Home Innovations discusses essential factors to consider before installing a whole-house generator.
Essential Factors to Focus on Before Home Generator Installation
1. The Purpose of the Generator
There is a purpose behind every action. The same goes for generators. Knowing why you’re looking for a generator in the first place can help you make a more well-informed decision.
Are you looking for a generator that keeps certain appliances running, or do you want undisturbed power running smoothly in your home?
Generators are costly, so you must consider the reasoning and weigh your options. Consult with a professional company to get the right generator for your purpose.
2. Power Requirement
Depending on your wattage needs, the price and size of the generator will vary. Watt is a power unit; your home will require a certain amount of power to maintain functionality.
Do some research or ask a professional to help determine how much power you’ll need to ensure everything in your home runs as smoothly as possible.
3. Fuel Type
Another crucial factor to consider is what fuel you would like your generator to run on. The most common options are gasoline, propane, and natural gas.
Depending on your location and the available resources, one option may make more sense than the others. Natural gas is often the preferred fuel source because it is less likely to spoil and is typically cheaper than gasoline or propane. But you can consider other options as well.
4. Noise Level
One of the main drawbacks of owning a generator is noise because generators are loud. The typical loudness of generators is 69Db or higher.
To give you an idea of how loud that is, a normal conversation is about 60 Db. So, if you have a generator that runs at 69 Db, it would make it difficult to have a conversation near it.
Diesel generators are noisier compared to other fuel-type generators.
Noise levels are essential during generator installation because you want to avoid placing it too close to where you sleep or work.
You will need to consider where you will be placing your generator. If it is going to be in your backyard, then the noise level may not be as big of a deal.
But if you plan to put it in your garage, the noise level may bother you more.
5. Maintenance
All generators, no matter the brand or type, require maintenance. You will need to perform oil and filter changes regularly. Depending on how often you use your house generator, you may need to do this every few months.
Checking the engine coolant levels and battery voltage is essential for routine maintenance. Without proper maintenance, you could be looking at expensive repairs. It’s always better to consult a professional about the dos and don’ts of whole-house generator maintenance.
Also Read: Here’s Why A Backup Generator Is An Excellent Addition To Your Home
6. Budget
You can’t forget to factor in the cost of purchasing and installing a generator.
Prices can range anywhere from a few thousand bucks to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the power and size of the unit.
Make sure to research and get quotes from multiple companies before making a final decision.
7. Installation
Installing a generator is not a DIY project. You will need to seek a professional installer to handle the installation. It is not something you want to cut corners on because improper installation can be dangerous.
Usually, the company you purchase the generator from will also offer installation services.
8. Location
Generators should be installed outdoors. They should be placed on a concrete pad in a well-ventilated area. The generator should also be far enough away from your home so exhaust fumes don’t enter the house. It will also help reduce noise if the generator is not too close to your home.
4 Reasons to Get a Whole-House Generator
1. Reliable Power Source
One of the main reasons to get a generator is for a reliable power source. A generator can be a lifesaver if you live someplace prone to power outages. A backup power source is always a good idea, whether due to severe weather or another emergency.
2. Increased Home Value
Another reason to install a generator is for the increased home value. If you plan on selling your home in the future, potential buyers will be impressed that you have a whole-house generator, which could even help you get a higher sales price.
3. Improved Quality of Life
Generator power can also lead to an improved quality of life. A generator can make a big difference if you live in an area with frequent power outages. Having a backup power source means you won’t have to worry about being without power for long periods.
4. Whole-House Coverage
One of the main benefits of a whole-house generator is that it can power your entire home. It is in contrast to a portable generator with limited power. They are the way to go if you want to ensure that all your appliances and electronics are covered in a power outage.
Bottomline
A generator is a significant investment; you want to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. It means researching and knowing what to look for in a quality generator. With these things in mind, you can be sure that you’ll make the best decision for your home and your family.
Professional Generator Installation in Cypress, TX
When considering installing a whole-house generator, Core Home Innovations is the company you can trust. We are a one-stop shop for all your home improvement needs, including solar installation/ maintenance, exterior home renovation, and patio designing, and we specialize in generator installation. We serve the Greater Houston Area, including Cypress, TX. Contact us today to get a free quote.
