Installing a whole home generator is one of the best investments you can make in your home, as it will keep your family safe by avoiding unexpected power outages. Home generators can keep all of your major appliances running, such as your water heater, HVAC system, and even your refrigerator or freezer, during a power outage or blackout.
Unlike portable generators, a whole home generator doesn’t require frequent refuels to keep it running, as it is powered by gas or propane. This will not only keep your home powered and your appliances running during unexpected regional power outages but will save you money on appliance repairs that would otherwise be necessary due to a loss of power. Investing in a whole home generator is the best way to secure your peace of mind and your family’s comfort, as you will be able to rest assured that you will be safe and with power even amidst inclement weather or other conditions that could lead to a power outage.
So, what does a whole home generator installation consist of, and what can you expect when undergoing such a project? Keep reading to find out!
Choose the Right Capacity
One of the most important decisions you will make when installing a whole home generator is choosing the best generator capacity for your home. To choose the correct generator capacity, you will need to calculate the number of wattages you’ll require by assessing your home’s exact wattage. Add the running wattage to the starting wattage to get the total wattages you’ll need to power each device. Then, add up the devices’ total wattages to determine which generator capacity you need. A professional electrician can help with this process to ensure you get the most accurate results and choose the generator capacity that best suits your home and your specific needs.
Choose the Right Fuel
Whole home generators can run on natural gas, propane, and diesel. Each fuel type has numerous pros and cons, and the type of fuel that you choose will largely influence the overall cost of running your generator.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is the most affordable fuel for whole-home generators. Natural gas carries less energy than the other options but is the most widely available. Most local utility companies will deliver the natural gas through pipelines to your home, which can be a major benefit depending on where you live.
Liquid Propane
Propane is the most environmentally-friendly fuel and has an indefinite shelf life; however, liquid propane requires a large amount of storage space.
Diesel
Diesel is easy to maintain since you don’t need spark plugs for this fuel.
Upgrade Your Electricity and Mechanical Piping
The installation of a whole home generator requires many homeowners to make upgrades to their home’s current electrical system in order to power the generator as needed. Additionally, if you plan on using natural gas or liquid propane that will be delivered through pipelines to your home, you will need to invest in necessary upgrades in your piping system.
Acquire a Permit
Installing a whole home generator often requires permits from your local government due to the electrical and piping upgrades that will need to be made to install and power your generator. The contractor or electrician who installs your generator will be able to obtain these permits for you.
Hire a Professional
Installing a whole home generator requires extensive knowledge of your home’s piping and electric systems, assembly, permits, and more. Hiring a professional electrician is the safest and most effective way to ensure that your whole home generator is installed properly.
Equipping your home with a reliable generator has never been easier, thanks to the services offered by Oak Electric. Our innovative process makes it easy and stress-free to upgrade your home’s electrical system and install a whole home generator that will keep your home comfortable and safe, even amidst an unexpected power outage.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a free quote from a member of our team.