Do you frequently have power outages, or are simply worried about losing power for a long time? If so, a backup generator is a great way to give yourself peace and mind that you will have electricity when you need it the most. Here are some things to consider when getting a generator.
Portable or Permanent
You should start by deciding what kind of generator you want for your home, with the choices being either a portable or permanent generator. A portable generator can be taken with you anywhere that you go but is quite limited in how you can use it. They typically require gasoline as the energy source, and you will plug in extension cords to the unit to provide power to certain items. The main benefit of a portable generator is that it is portable, so you can take it to a friend or relative's home if they lost power to help them out
A permanent generator is going to be installed at your home in a single location. These generators have enough power to provide electricity to a portion of your home and often require a secondary electrical panel. This allows you to provide power to only certain circuits of your home and prioritize the appliances that are most important. For example, you may want to keep refrigerators running, provide lights to various rooms, or focus on running the air conditioner on a hot summer day.
Fuel Source
You have a couple of options for what kind of fuel you will use when you have a permanent generator. Many people decide to use natural gas because there is an existing natural gas line running to your home and it is convenient. However, if natural gas is not dependable in your area, you may want to look for alternative options. There are also generators that run on gasoline or diesel fuel, with the option of a storage tank so that you do not have to keep refilling the generator. If you are installing a standby generator, it probably won't run on gasoline since diesel fuel is much more effective at providing electricity.
If you do not have access to natural gas, then a propane-powered generator will be your best option. The fuel will be stored in a propane tank, and you don't have to worry about it going bad from not being used. A large storage tank should give you enough energy to run a generator for a few days, but you will need to have a propane delivery service refill the tank when it is empty.
For more information, contact a local company that provides generator installations, such as Express Electrical Services.