Owning a backup generator can be beneficial, no matter where you live. There are so many ways a backup generator can make things easier and more comfortable whenever power is lost. But, in the long run, one of the best ways a backup generator can be useful is by what you WON’T lose during a power outage. Let’s look at 5 ways owning a backup generator is the way to go.
Five Reasons You Need a Backup Generator
- The air conditioning/heat stays on for the health and safety of your family and pets. Even if you use gas for heat, you need a fan to circulate that heat and it is likely to be electric.
- Refrigerated and frozen food won’t spoil if the power stays out for hours (or days).
- When you are away from your home, you don’t need to worry about storms that could cause a power loss.
- A generator means you have hot water for your home, and the pumps and plumbing all operate properly.
- Wi-Fi, cell phone charging, working from home, schooling from home take electricity. If you have a lengthy power outage, a backup generator can be beneficial to keeping everyone working smoothly.
Standby or Portable Backup Generator?
There is no doubt that the benefits of having a backup generator for your home outweigh not having one, but which generator should you go with, a standby or portable?
Portable generators generally cost less than $1000. Whereas a standby generator will cost considerably more. So why spend extra money? Here are several good reasons:
- Portable generators require cords to specific areas of your home and for you to manually turn them on. You will need multiple long extension cords and you still can only pick and choose what you will keep running.
- Portable generators require refueling every 12-24 hours. If you aren’t home when your power goes out then your generator doesn’t turn on.
- Portable generators, if they aren’t used and maintained regularly, will not work.
- Standby generators come on by themselves whether you are home or not. This saves you the trouble ofn worrying about food going bad or your basement sump pump not running.
- A standby generator runs off propane or natural gas already at your home.
- A standby generator runs diagnostic tests on itself regularly, so that even in the middle of winter, you know it will run when needed.
So though you may spend more for a standby generator, the peace of mind and hassle-free experience is worth every cent.
Your Standby Generator Is Beneficial if You Keep it Maintained
Once you have a permanent backup generator installed, it’s crucial to keep it maintained so it remains in proper working order when it is needed. It’s wise to have your standby generator serviced for maintenance at least once a year. Regular maintenance includes ensuring the battery is working properly, checking on the coolant level and replacing air filters. When professional electricians install your generator, you can trust the wiring is done properly to avoid breakers flipping or other power shortages.
When you’re looking for experts at installing and maintaining standby generators, look no further than 3 Phase Power in Waukesha, WI. We have trained electricians to do the job right the first time and ensure you are ready for the next power outage.
