What You Need to Know About Home Generators

A generator is a backup solution that provides electricity to your property. It is generally used when there is a power outage due to factors such as bad weather, low grid supply, and so on. By investing in a generator, you can use your gadgets without interruption, stay comfortable during outages, and most importantly, ensure you and your family’s safety.

In this article, we’ll tackle the basics of generators, including their different kinds, so you can decide which one suits you the best.

In this article, we’ll tackle the basics of generators, including their different kinds, so you can decide which one suits you the best.

There are different kinds of generators you can use for your Indiana home, including:

Standby Generators

A standby generator is a device set up outside the home, connected to your main electrical system. Your electrician can configure it to supply power to your whole home, or to select circuits. It relies on a transfer switch to sense the loss of power, triggering the generator to start.

Inverter Generators

Compact and lightweight, this generator is more energy-efficient than others. As the name suggests, it uses an inverter system to convert AC into DC and then back to AC, resulting in clean and consistent power

Portable Generators

A portable generator is a popular choice among campers. They come with built-in wheels, making them easy to transport. Technically, they can be used in homes. But as they’re designed for short-term use, they can only supply limited power.

What Fuel Do Home Generators Use?

What Fuel Do Home Generators Use?

• Gas. This is the most common source of fuel for generators. When using a gas generator, note that you will need to maintain a supply of gas to ensure it’s “fresh” when it’s time to use it.
• Propane. Standby generators often use propane, a clean—and more cost-effective—fuel source.
• Diesel. Portable generators generally run on diesel.
• Natural gas. Connected to your home’s gas line, a generator that runs on natural gas has the advantage of a consistent fuel source.

What Size Generator Do Homeowners Need?

Buying the right generator for your home is a crucial step in ensuring you have enough power during an outage. In most cases, a generator that offers 5,000 to 8,000 watts is sufficient for modern homes. However, you may want to take a tailored approach to make sure your generator suits your needs.

To do that, list down the wattage of items you’d most likely want to keep working during an outage, such as your fridge, freezer, computer, and more. Then, calculate the total wattage and seek a generator that’s in that’s within that range.

What’s the Best Type of Generator for Your Home?

Ultimately, the “best” generator is the one built to meet your home’s needs during an outage. Most homeowners opt for a standby generator with an auto transfer switch, as it’s more efficient and can sufficiently power a whole home. As for fuel, gas is a popular choice, as this means the generator can continuously run without the need for refills.

To determine the ideal generator and fuel type for your Indiana home, it’s advisable to consult the technicians at Beeson Mechanical Service. Our team will walk you through the common considerations when choosing a generator, such as its shut-off system, fuel gauge, noise, and more, giving you a unit that’s tailored to your preferences.

Call us today at 317-535-9338 to schedule a free consultation