Backup Generators

After the summer power outages and Hurricane Sandy on the east coast, many people have decided to invest in a backup generator to avoid going without power for too long. Here is some information about backup generators to help you decide if one is right for your home:

Types of Backup Generators

There are a two main options for backup generators. You can use a portable generator that requires it be run outside. Most people connect appliances to it with an extension cord. It’ll get the basic stuff done like power a toaster oven to make dinner. If you’re not sure you want to keep venturing out into inclement weather to reach your power source, the emergency standby generator might be a better choice. This type of generator is a permanent fixture outside your home just like your central air. Wired through a transfer switch, these appliances run on natural gas, propane, or diesel fuel.

Sizes of Backup Generators

First you may want to decide how much power you’d want restored during an outage and how much you want to spend on backup generators. If you decide on a portable generator, there are a few options. The smallest model, a five kilowatt, will help to power about four lights, a sump pump, a fridge/freezer, and a furnace fan. As you increase in size, it can power more things like a family room up to the entire house.

Transfer Switches

If you do opt for the higher-end backup generator, a transfer switch installation is required. A transfer switch can run you about $150 but it’s important that a competent electrician installs it for you. Wouldn’t you hate to have a power outage and a fried electrical system on top of that? Oh, and no power at all! So if you want to wire a backup generator to your home, contact us at Allen Electric today!