Many homeowners have suffered a power outage at some time. One minute you are engaging your everyday household tasks and responsibilities, and the next, the power is out. You quickly look out the window to see if your neighbors have power. Most of the street is dark, but you spot that once house that has their bright lights shining through all the windows. It is likely the house you are seeing has a residential generator. Residential generators provide the household with electricity, even when the grid is offline. The following are the most common concerns and causes for avoiding residential generators.
The cost of residential generators
It is possible that you have previously considered purchasing a residential generator, but were turned away by the high cost. You might be surprised that generator services are much more affordable today. Additionally, if you factor in the costs savings during multiple power outages, you will quickly make up the costs spent. For example, a household with a lengthy power outage will lose funds in the form of spoiled groceries and having to order in every meal, until the power returns. It is also possible that when a power outage occurs, you will no longer care about the price for convenience.
Simple care of residential generators
Another common reason for avoiding residential generators is their upkeep. Although residential generators do require some amount of upkeep and preventative maintenance, the work put in is worth it. Any homeowner can learn how to properly care for and run their residential generators. When you schedule a generator installation, the generator company or repairman will give you care and upkeep instructions to ensure proper care of the unit.
They are actually safe, with proper use
Electric generators sometimes get a bad name because of the possibility of home fires. However, if the residential generator is used properly, the risk of fire is minimal. In fact, you carry a much higher risk of fire due to your electrical setup. Electrical fires currently cost $1.4 billion a year in property damage. To prevent this, armored cable insulation should be checked every five years or so. To avoid and reduce your risk of fire, always follow the directions included with the residential generator. Additionally, never put gas into a generator inside of the house. Opt for an electric generator for an even safer option.
Choosing the right type of electric generator
There are a few different types of electric generators available to purchase. Different residential generators are designed for different household sizes, different amount of electrical needs, and for residential versus commercial usage. If you plan on using your electrical generator for a long period of time, or plan on putting a large amount of electrical items onto it, you will want a larger one. For example, air conditioners use about 5% of all the electricity produced in the United States. If your generator also needs to power your generator, you may require a larger version.
Where to purchase your generator
Avoid running to the local store at the last minute to purchase your residential generator. You will be forced to choose from the generators that are currently in stock and there is unlikely to be a qualified generator contract on staff to provide you with safety information. It is best to prepare for your generator needs ahead of time. Research the available models, have it professionally installed, and ensure it works, before you actually need it. You are also more likely to save money on the generator, when you are able to price shop.
Every homeowner has wished for a residential generator when the power goes out for an extended period of time. Avoid inconvenient power outages by purchasing a home generator before it is needed. You will be prepared for safe handling, proper usage, and you won?t have to spend hundreds on a lower level model.
