What is a Standby Home Generator?

A standby home generator is a backup electrical system that automatically generates power during an outage. It is a permanent fixture that must be installed professionally, unlike a smaller portable generator. The standby home generator uses an automatic transfer switch that can sense a power loss and, within seconds, command the generator to start and then transfer the electrical load. Once power has been restored, the automatic transfer switch returns the electrical load back to the utility and shuts off the standby generator.

A standby home generator acts like an insurance policy. You never know when you may need it, but it is worth the investment if you do. While having a portable generator is convenient during an outage, having a standby home generator may have some other benefits you hadn't thought of before.

Benefits of a Standby Home Generator

There are numerous benefits to having a whole house generator at the ready. While it's an upfront investment, it pays off to have it in place throughout the year. Some of the main benefits a standby home generator can provide you include:

  • Reliable power when you need it most. Having a standby home generator offers homeowners peace of mind during unexpected power outages. It allows a homeowner to maintain the comfort and safety levels needed during emergencies like a weather-related disaster. So much of what we use in our daily lives depends on electricity. A standby home generator allows you to run the appliances you need during an emergency, like air conditioners, heaters, sump pumps, refrigerators, televisions, and lights.
  • Several days of power. A standby home generator can provide more power than a portable generator, allowing it to run more appliances. Standby home generators can produce power in upwards of 30,000 watts. Considering that heavier appliances like refrigerators and washing machines need approximately 1,200 watts each, the larger generators could easily power anything in your home.
  • Quiet and safe backup power. They're also quieter than portable generators. Also, with a standby home generator, you don't need to worry about connecting cords or storing gasoline. It can run off your home's natural gas supply or an underground propane tank.
  • Increased value of your home. Installing a standby home generator increases the value of a home. According to the 2013 Cost vs Value Report by Remodeling, adding a generator can increase the resale value of a home by over 50 percent of the generator's cost. That is a sound investment in the safety and value of your home.
  • Prevents backfeeding. Standby home generators also utilize a transfer switch to automatically turn on and off, making them safer and eliminating the chance of accidentally "backfeeding" electricity into the local power grid.

Finding the Right Whole House Generator

When it comes to finding the right system for your needs, there are a few key things to look out for, including:

  1. Shut off. Why would you worry about an automatic shut-off feature when backup generators are all about automatically turning on? It's a good question, but automatic shut-off capabilities are crucial for whole house generators. When the power turns back on, your generator should turn off right away to avoid excess power or overheating. Similarly, if your unit overheats during an outage, the last thing you want is a potential fire hazard. Most modern systems have automatic shut-off capabilities, but testing it out after installation is essential.
  2. Enclosure. Unlike portable generators, standby home generators are permanent installations that live outside of your home, similar to your HVAC unit. Your generator should be made of material that withstands the outdoor elements and is placed in an area of your yard that is easy to access in case the unit requires repairs or maintenance.
  3. Capacity. Generators come in all shapes and sizes to best fit individual needs. Depending on the size of your home and how many people live with you will help determine how much power you need access to in case of emergency. Some homes will work just fine with a standby home generator that has a capacity of 20kW. In contrast, others may need to double that capacity. Our generator experts can help you do the math and uncover the suitable capacity for you.
  4. Fuel source. Unlike portable generators that rely on gasoline, standby home generators need access to natural gas or propane. Ideally, your unit will be connected to your gas supply and can, therefore, flip on as soon as the power goes out. However, other options are available in case natural gas is not an option.

Depending on your needs and budget, Bradley Mechanical can help you find the right generator for your home. We offer a full range of generator units, and our experts can help you design and install a new system. For over 50 years, Bradley Mechanical has been the trusted name in installing, servicing and repairing generators throughout Central Virginia.

Give us a call today at (804) 748-6728 to learn more about our standby home generator systems.

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