Whole house generators are designed to keep things running during a power outage. Although many businesses use them to reduce the risk of food contamination or damage to temperature-regulated equipment, homes can also greatly benefit from a whole house generator. Let’s discuss the importance of installing a whole house generator in your home.
What Is a Whole House Generator?
Before deciding whether you should have one or not, it’s important to understand exactly what a whole house generator is.
A whole house generator is installed outside your home and runs on propane or natural gas. They are connected to a switch that triggers the generator to begin powering the house should an electrical outage occur.
Once installed, they require very little effort from the homeowner.
Why Do You Need One?
Power outages are unexpected and unpredictable. Storms, broken transformers, and any number of natural or unnatural causes can suddenly take the power from your house for hours or—even worse—days.
With most generators, a home will have refreshed power within 90 seconds, as per code, after the generator is triggered to start working when the power goes out. That means no spoiled food, computers that continue to work, laundry that can be done, and lamps that continue to bring light to the darkness.
Sure, not every home has a whole house generator, but should the power go out, you’ll be thankful you do have one.
How Much Does a Generator Cost?
Generators are an investment, and they do come at a price. You can expect to pay anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000 + for a residential whole house generator, depending on the size of the home and your needs.
However, there is a way to get a less expensive generator. Consider adding backup power to only the most essential areas of the home, as this will allow you to choose a smaller generator.
Appliances such as refrigerators and freezers are extremely important due to the perishable food items they store. Everyone’s lifestyle is different. When deciding which generator to purchase, first select which appliances you need to receive power at all times, then go from there.
A licensed electrician is able to properly install your whole house generator. Contact C&S Electric of Louisburg LLC for any questions you have about installing a whole house generator in your home.