Standby Generators
Standby generators are extremely reliable and robust. Because they wire into your home’s electrical system, they automatically detect a power outage when the electrical current ceases. As soon as the generator detects power loss, it begins generating electricity, delivering it directly to your home’s electrical system. Depending on the model, these machines can handle tremendous power draw—up to 48kW. At that level, a standby generator’s power supply rivals that of your utility company.
There are two types of standby generators: Standard and Whole-House. Standard generators are smaller and produce fewer watts. They are useful for powering your most critical electronics and appliances such as your sump pump, HVAC system, refrigerator, lights, and perhaps a few smaller appliances. Whole-house generators are significantly larger and extremely capable machines. In the event of a power outage, with a whole-house generator, your home will continue functioning as though there was never an outage.
A standby generator is a permanent fixture outside your home, so you’ll never need to worry about finding the apparatus, locating extension cords, plugging everything in, etc. Instead, a standby generator immediately restores power—you never even have to lift a finger.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are far less capable than their standby counterparts, but they can be convenient in a pinch. These machines do not wire directly into your home’s electrical system and typically require propane, gasoline, or diesel fuel for operation.
Because they’re much smaller, these machines are only capable of powering a small number of appliances simultaneously. In the event of an outage, a portable generator can typically power your most critical items, such as your refrigerator, a few lights, and perhaps a portable air conditioner or heater.
Why Use a Generator Electrician for Standby Generator Installation?
Standby generators that are wired into your home’s electrical system require the expertise of a licensed generator electrician. Because the wiring must follow current electrical code, installation is never a do-it-yourself job.
Before a generator installation can commence, you’ll need to select the machine that best fits your home’s current power consumption. We can guide you through this process after evaluating your home’s energy needs and determining the systems you’d like to power in the event of an outage.
Once selected, we’ll need to locate an appropriate site for placement, typically near your power panel or electrical meter. You’ll also require a reserve fuel tank to power the generator during operation. Typically, large standby generators require propane or natural gas; depending on the model, they can also connect directly into your home’s existing natural gas lines.
To transfer an electrical load from your home’s utility source to the generator, you’ll also require a transfer switch. The transfer switch monitors power levels and initiates the generator start sequence when utility power is insufficient. When the power fails, or output falls below a predetermined level, the switch transfers the electrical load to the generator. When the switch detects utility power has been restored, it will allow voltage to reach normal levels before transferring electrical load back to the utility source
Choose Revience for Fully Connected Backup Power for Your Home
At Revience, we know the safety of your home and family is paramount. Being without power for extended periods isn’t just inconvenient, it’s dangerous. Our licensed generator electricians will work with you to determine your unique power needs, recommend the appropriate setup, and complete the installation process.
For more information about backup generator installation or to request a consultation, give us a call at 763-497-4989.