Vital Things to Consider Before Investing in a Whole Home Generator

Power outages can be extremely disruptive, causing major inconvenience when critical systems like lights, appliances, and Wi-Fi go down. Installing a home generator brings reliable backup power whenever emergencies or storms cut off the grid. If you're considering this investment to safeguard your home, this guide covers critical factors to evaluate first.

Your Home's Full Electrical Load

The first step is properly sizing your generator. The size will depend on:

• Total square footage of your house
• Number of major appliances
• Essential circuits that need backup

Correctly rating the system prevents overload issues during outages. To determine the appropriate generator size for your home, consult a reputable generator installer.

Fuel Type Options

When choosing a generator, selecting the right fuel type is crucial for efficiency, convenience, and reliability. The primary fuel choices for home generators are natural gas, diesel, and propane. Each fuel type has unique attributes and considerations that can impact the overall operation and maintenance of the generator. Compare aspects like:

• Operating/maintenance costs
• Convenience of refueling during extended outages
• Required storage tanks

Discuss with your technician the feasibility of each fuel type for your location. They can provide insights into local fuel availability and cost trends and recommend the best solution for your needs.

Installation Costs

The generator's price is only a portion of the overall expenses associated with ensuring your home is equipped for power outages. It is essential to consider all the components that contribute to the total cost of the project, including:

• Any required electrical upgrades
• Professional installation/labor
• Fuel line connections
• Permitting fees

Understanding these additional costs is vital for setting realistic budget expectations and avoiding surprises during the installation process.

Maintenance Requirements

Regardless of size or utilization, all generators necessitate routine maintenance to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Key maintenance activities include:

• Tune-ups
• Parts replacement
• Load testing

Maintenance expenses can vary significantly depending on the generator's size, how often it is used, and the specific maintenance activities required. However, investing in regular upkeep helps avoid the much higher costs associated with major repairs or replacements due to negligence.

Generator Installers

Before installing a home generator, it is crucial to select a professional with the necessary experience and credentials. Doing your homework to find a qualified installer is essential for the success of your generator setup and for ensuring it's executed accurately and efficiently.

Your generator installer should have a strong background in the technical requirements and prioritize safety and compliance with local codes. The right installer should also offer the following:

• In-depth Consultation
• Experience and Certification
• Permit and Code Knowledge
• Transparent Quoting
• Positive Reviews and References

Ready to Secure Your Home's Power?

Contact HMC Generators today, a full-service dealer for Generac generators. Whether you need a turnkey generator installation or require skilled repair services to maintain your current setup, we are here to help. Serving the Baton Rouge metropolitan area, we're committed to ensuring your home remains powered through any situation.