Choosing the Best Generator for Your Home Power Needs

When it comes to power outages, having a reliable generator can make all the difference. Not only does it keep your essential appliances running, but it also provides peace of mind. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best generator for your home power needs. In this blog post, we will cover the basics of generators and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Understanding Generators

A generator is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. It consists of an engine, an alternator, and a fuel system. The engine runs on fuel, such as gasoline, propane, or natural gas, and turns the alternator, which generates electrical power.

There are two main types of generators: standby and portable. Standby generators are permanently installed and are designed to provide backup power to your home in the event of an outage. They are typically powered by natural gas or propane and can provide power for days or even weeks. Portable generators, on the other hand, are designed to be moved and can be used for a variety of purposes, from powering tools on a job site to providing temporary power during a power outage.

Generators work by converting the mechanical energy of the engine into electrical energy. When the engine turns the alternator, the alternator produces an electrical current, which is sent through wires to your home. This current can be used to power a variety of appliances, from lights and televisions to refrigerators and air conditioners.

It’s important to note that generators should never be operated indoors, as they can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Instead, they should be operated outside in a well-ventilated area, away from doors and windows. Additionally, generators should always be properly maintained to ensure they are functioning safely and efficiently.

Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home Power Needs

When choosing a generator for your home, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Assess your power needs: The first step in choosing a generator is to determine your power needs. This will depend on the appliances and devices you need to power during an outage. Make a list of all the items you want to power and determine their wattage. This will help you choose a generator that can handle your power needs.
Fuel type: Generators can be powered by propane, natural gas, or gasoline. Propane and natural gas are cleaner-burning fuels and are often preferred for standby generators. Gasoline-powered generators are typically more portable and are a good option for those who need a generator for occasional use.
Noise level and portability: Consider the noise level and portability of the generator. If you live in a neighborhood with noise restrictions, you may want to choose a quieter generator. Portable generators are typically louder than standby generators, but they are also more portable and can be moved where needed.
Budget considerations: Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget when choosing a generator and keep in mind that more expensive generators may have additional features or higher wattage capacities.

It’s important to choose a generator that meets your specific needs to ensure you have the power you need during an outage. Don’t forget to also consider any additional features, such as automatic start and shut-off or remote monitoring, that may be important to you.

Top Generator Options on the Market

There are many different generator options on the market, so it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some of the top generator options available today:

Generac Guardian Series: The Generac Guardian Series is a standby generator that is designed to provide reliable backup power to your home. It runs on either natural gas or propane and is available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 9 kW to 22 kW.
Champion Power Equipment 100692: The Champion Power Equipment 100692 is a portable generator that is designed for use during power outages or on job sites. It runs on gasoline and has a peak wattage of 6250 watts.
Briggs & Stratton 40336: The Briggs & Stratton 40336 is a standby generator that runs on natural gas or propane. It has a peak wattage of 20 kW and is designed to provide reliable backup power to your home.
Westinghouse WGen7500DF: The Westinghouse WGen7500DF is a portable generator that runs on both gasoline and propane. It has a peak wattage of 9500 watts and is designed for use during power outages or on job sites.
Kohler 20RESCL: The Kohler 20RESCL is a standby generator that runs on either natural gas or propane. It has a peak wattage of 20 kW and is designed to provide reliable backup power to your home.

When choosing a generator, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each option. For example, standby generators are more expensive than portable generators, but they can provide reliable backup power for days or even weeks. Portable generators are more affordable and can be moved where needed, but they typically have lower wattage capacities and are louder than standby generators.

To help make the decision process easier, here is a comparison chart of the generators mentioned above:

Generator Model	Fuel Type	Wattage	Price
Generac Guardian Series	Natural Gas/Propane	9 kW – 22 kW	$2,000 – $5,000+
Champion Power Equipment 100692	Gasoline	6250 watts	$700 – $800
Briggs & Stratton 40336	Natural Gas/Propane	20 kW	$4,000 – $5,000+
Westinghouse WGen7500DF	Gasoline/Propane	9500 watts	$1,000 – $1,500
Kohler 20RESCL	Natural Gas/Propane	20 kW	$4,000 – $5,000+

Remember, choosing the right generator for your needs is essential to ensure you have reliable backup power during an outage. Consider your power needs, budget, and other important factors when making your decision.

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Home Generators

Once you’ve chosen the right generator for your needs, it’s important to properly maintain and operate it to ensure your safety and the longevity of the equipment. Here are some maintenance and safety tips to keep in mind:

Regular Maintenance: Just like any other piece of equipment, generators require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to operate effectively. This includes changing the oil and filters, checking and replacing spark plugs, and inspecting the fuel system.
Safe Installation: Generators should be installed in a safe and well-ventilated location, away from flammable materials and with proper grounding. It’s also important to follow manufacturer instructions when installing the generator and connecting it to your home’s electrical system.
Carbon Monoxide Safety: Generators emit carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that is odorless and colorless. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, never operate a generator in an enclosed space, such as inside your home or garage. Always place the generator in a well-ventilated area, and install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to alert you to any potential danger.
Proper Usage: Only use your generator as intended, and never overload it with too many devices or appliances. Make sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage and safety precautions.
Regular Testing: Regularly test your generator to ensure it’s working properly, especially before a storm or other potential power outage. This includes checking the fuel supply, starting the generator, and checking the electrical output.

By following these maintenance and safety tips, you can ensure your generator provides reliable backup power when you need it most, while also keeping your family and home safe.

Conclusion

Having a home generator is an investment in the safety and comfort of your family during power outages. With the right generator, you can ensure that essential appliances and devices stay powered, and you can avoid the inconvenience of being without electricity for an extended period.

When selecting a generator, it’s important to consider your power needs, budget, and the pros and cons of various options. Additionally, proper maintenance and safety precautions are necessary to ensure the longevity of the generator and the safety of your family.

Whether you choose a portable or standby generator, make sure to follow manufacturer instructions and take appropriate safety precautions. By doing so, you’ll have reliable backup power for years to come, ensuring that your family stays safe and comfortable during power outages.

See the video below for more explanation

FAQs

What size generator do I need for my home? The size of the generator you need depends on your power requirements. Make a list of the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage, and add up their wattage to determine the size of the generator you need. It’s always best to choose a generator with a slightly higher capacity than your actual needs.
What type of fuel is best for a home generator? The most common fuels for home generators are propane, diesel, and natural gas. Propane is a popular choice because it’s clean-burning and readily available. Diesel generators are known for their durability, and natural gas generators are convenient because they can be connected directly to your home’s gas line.
Can I use a portable generator to power my whole house? While portable generators can power multiple devices simultaneously, they are not designed to power an entire home. Standby generators, on the other hand, are specifically designed for whole-house backup power.
Can I install a standby generator myself? Installing a standby generator requires electrical and plumbing expertise, and it’s recommended to have a professional electrician and plumber install it to ensure safety and proper operation.
How often should I maintain my home generator? It’s important to perform regular maintenance on your generator, including changing the oil and filters, inspecting the fuel system, and checking and replacing spark plugs. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance requirements and intervals.