What is the best kind of residential Generator to install?
I get a lot of questions about different kinds of generators, and their cost versus benefit.
I personally have a small 3500w generator that I use when there is no available power nearby, in new construction for example. Theoretically it could power my furnace and my refrigerator or my well pump, but not both.
The upside is that is was under $400 dollars, and I can pick it up.
The downside is that it requires me to put 4 gallons of gas in it every 8-10 hours. This would be pretty inconvenient in an ice storm.
A standby, or emergency generator, will automatically come on, and stay on as long as the power is out. They run on propane or natural gas, so you never need to fill them up. The picture above is a 7KW example that I recently installed.
They vary in sizes that can handle from about 6 circuits (my little one can only do one), to units that will power the whole house or facility, including air conditioners.
So essentially, if you need it for emergencies, you need a standby generator. People who rely on electricity to survive, such as those with health problems, can't count on a little portable unit.
The downside to standby/emergency generators is the cost. A whole house unit might start at $3000, and go up to $9000. That is not including installation.
It can be a tough decision for some people. We are talking life safety versus budget. Then again, you could go years and never need it.
If you buy any generator at all, for your home or business, make sure it is installed by a true professional. Done incorrectly it may not work, or worse it could kill a linemen working to get your power back on.
Trust me, they frown on that.
I personally have a small 3500w generator that I use when there is no available power nearby, in new construction for example. Theoretically it could power my furnace and my refrigerator or my well pump, but not both.
The upside is that is was under $400 dollars, and I can pick it up.
The downside is that it requires me to put 4 gallons of gas in it every 8-10 hours. This would be pretty inconvenient in an ice storm.
A standby, or emergency generator, will automatically come on, and stay on as long as the power is out. They run on propane or natural gas, so you never need to fill them up. The picture above is a 7KW example that I recently installed.
They vary in sizes that can handle from about 6 circuits (my little one can only do one), to units that will power the whole house or facility, including air conditioners.
So essentially, if you need it for emergencies, you need a standby generator. People who rely on electricity to survive, such as those with health problems, can't count on a little portable unit.
The downside to standby/emergency generators is the cost. A whole house unit might start at $3000, and go up to $9000. That is not including installation.
It can be a tough decision for some people. We are talking life safety versus budget. Then again, you could go years and never need it.
If you buy any generator at all, for your home or business, make sure it is installed by a true professional. Done incorrectly it may not work, or worse it could kill a linemen working to get your power back on.
Trust me, they frown on that.
LaMorte Electric was founded by Brian LaMorte to provide quality electrical contracting services to Ithaca (14850), Tompkins County and the surrounding areas. All of our Electricians are highly trained, clean, polite, and prompt. It is not uncommon for electricians to be rude, late, or turn down work that they think is beneath them, we promise to treat you the way you want to be treated.
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Glossary -Good things to know
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If you would like to see our reviews of LaMorte Electric, click here.
Contact us by Service Request Form
Glossary -Good things to know
Need a Graphic Designer?
Check out Sunrise Studios Design at www.sunrisestudiosdesign.com