What Is A Standby Generator?
Even the United States and other highly developed countries experience power outages. Around 3.5 million Americans lose power every week. Households can typically go through five outages in a year. How long they take will depend on the underlying cause and the utility companies’ agility. Most people can only wait until the power comes back, while others get a whole-house generator to get through the outage. Read on to know the answer to the question, “What is a standby generator?”
What Is A Standby Generator?
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Standby generators can bounce into action when your home loses power. With this equipment, families can live their everyday lives despite blackouts. There are also large generators for industrial or commercial use. A standby generator’s weight and size make it necessary to have it settle in one area, typically on a concrete block outside of the home or building. They are meant to work as a backup when disaster strikes or the grid fails. They are not supposed to be used as a continuous primary source of power. However, they can still run for days when needed.
How Does A On-Demand Generator Work?
Whole-house generators consume fuel to run. Most depend on natural gas or propane, so get fuel depending on what line you have in your home. The fuel converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. The output depends on the generator size. Your home’s required wattage is based on your appliances. HVAC systems are typically the largest energy consumer in a home. Have an expert help you with selecting and connecting the generator to the wiring system in your home.
Expectations Of A Whole-House Generator
Here is a list of what to expect from a whole-house generator:
Automatic Blackout Detection
Whole-house generators can discern a blackout and start themselves when linked to an automatic transfer switch. This will start the power transfer in seconds. This feature is essential as power outages are typically followed by darkness and confusion. It might not even be practical to go outside to manually turn on the generator if there is a strong storm. Automatic detection will save you from the hassle and restore order immediately.
Sufficient Energy for the Entire Household
A whole-house generator can produce adequate energy to power all household appliances you have. You don’t have to hesitate to turn on all the lights, and you can watch TV for as long as you like. You also don’t have to worry about whether you can use air conditioning or other power-hungry appliances around your home.
On-demand Fuel for Nonstop Operation
The generator’s fuel comes from gas lines, so you don’t have to store them in your home. Many homes are fitted with a propane tank to power the generator. If you use natural gas, you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel if you have a properly working gas line. The generator will use up as much gas as needed during its operation.
Resistance Against Corrosion
Generators are generally durable. Most have multi-year warranties that let homeowners be confident in buying one. If you are concerned about corrosion, consider a stainless steel generator as these offer better longevity than carbon steel and aluminum.
Substantial Noise Emission
Expect to hear some noise from standby generators as they are machines made of several moving parts. Therefore, it is crucial that they are placed in the right area with respect to the house. They should be on a stable foundation to lessen vibration. They should also be placed far from bedrooms so the home’s occupants can sleep well at night.
The Benefits of Having a Standby Generator
Here are several advantages a standby generator offers:
Continuous Household Comfort
Harsh weather conditions and frequent blackouts can cause discomfort. You will be exposed to the unbearable cold in the winter and scorching heat in the summer. The elderly and children are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures as they can get sick. A generator helps you avoid this issue as you can use your HVAC system continuously.
Prevent Pipes from Bursting
Frozen pipes can expand. When this happens, they can burst open and will require expensive repairs. The best way to prevent this problem is to ensure that your home is at the proper temperature during the winter. Generators help ensure that you don’t have to worry about your plumbing system even if the grid is down.
Lighting for Safety and Security
It can be a challenge to move around in the dark. It can lead to accidents, and it can also be scary when there are no lights at night. Someone could sneak into your home without getting noticed. Generators ensure the lights stay on so you will feel secure and safe and have peace of mind.
Food Preservation
Some foods spoil quickly unless they are kept frozen. Examples of these are fish and meat. Extended power outages mean an increased risk of spoilage. Generators can help ensure everything stays fresh, so you don’t have to worry about food waste.
Uninterrupted Home Office Work
It is essential that lights and computers remain on and running now that more people are working at home. A standby generator helps keep you connected and productive. This way, remote work is possible even if you live in a place with unreliable power grids.
Continuous Power To Medical Equipment
Most medical equipment needs electricity to work. A standby generator will ensure that all medical equipment continues working even during a blackout.
Conclusion
Modern appliances and gadgets help us live our lives in comfort. Power outages can make it difficult for us as we are left vulnerable to elements, detached from our daily routines, and unproductive in our work. A standby generator can spring into action when you need power. Your whole house will be back to normal in seconds. All you need to do is ensure you pick the right generator for your needs and get professional installers to set it up.
Call R.F. Ohl For All Of Your Standby Generator Needs
R.F. Ohl is a leading generator installation service provider throughout the Poconos and the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. We offer backup generator installation and specialize in generator repair, replacements, and maintenance services. Our team is made up of the best service contractors who are well-trained in the most advanced methods of generator techniques. Call or contact us online today to learn more about whole-house generator installation. We offer free, in-home estimates.
Contact R.F. Ohl today and let experts in the industry answer all your generator questions.
Click here to contact us today or give us a call at (610) 377-1098 if you have any questions.