The Size To Consider For Your Next Generator Hookup Service | Myrtle Beach, SC
Although it may be tempting to rush to the local hardware store to buy the only portable generator readily available, there are good reasons to plan ahead and have a larger generator installed at your Myrtle Beach, SC property through a professional generator hookup service.
A portable generator, for example, though it may provide backup power to kitchen appliances, won’t be able to supply enough power to allow you to additionally utilize your central HVAC system.
The unsafe use of portable units has resulted in many deaths over the past decade. Many of these deaths have been caused by carbon monoxide poisoning from placing the generator too close to a home, or even by incorrectly placing a generator inside the home. A professional generator hookup service will ensure the correct placement of your standby power source, whether it’s a portable unit or a large whole-home backup unit.
There are other safety concerns associated with portable generators. Some will plug them into extension cords that can trail throughout your home to the necessary appliance. This is not only inconvenient but also exposes you to the risk of a fall or electrical shock if the extension cords are tripped over and the cable is accidentally exposed.
A second unintended consequence of not using a reliable generator hookup service for backup power is the possibility of electrocuting linemen trying to restore power to your local electricity grid. These dangers can be eliminated by properly installing an electrical panel transfer switch or generator interlock kit, together with a whole-home generator.
One reason to consider something larger than a portable generator is that it can be difficult to predict how long a power outage will last. Most power outages will last for a short time. In the event of a major natural disaster, however, your home may require a backup power source to provide electricity, heat, and other essential home services for several days or even longer.
A whole-house standby generator installed using a generator hookup service can use propane or natural gas stored in large tanks to provide power. This means that they can run longer, provide you with more reliable power, and they are less hassle than a portable generator.
Portable generators require frequent refueling because they have a smaller fuel tank. Plus, the fuel they use is not always available. Natural gas and propane, however, are more popular options. Especially because you can affix a larger generator to a permanent gas supply line on your Myrtle Beach, SC property during a generator hookup service, and then you don’t have to worry about going outside to check on it and refuel.
A whole-house backup generator will provide sufficient electricity to run your heating and cooling systems during power outages. It will also protect your home from harmful mold growth and frozen pipe damage. Larger whole-home generators are installed in such a way that they turn on automatically when the power goes out.
The Trend Towards Whole-Home Backup Generators
A whole-house generator is becoming more popular among homeowners who are looking to make their home safer in case of an emergency. These generators eliminate the need for trailing extension cords and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Permanent standby generators can be connected to either large fuel tanks or natural gas lines so that they have enough fuel to last you through an extended outage.
Before you commit to a standby generator of a certain size, make sure you consider these important factors. This will give you a better understanding of the generator hookup service required.
#1 Generator Capacity
The power they can provide to your home is one of the most important factors in whole-house generators. Generators are rated according to the wattage they produce. 1000 watts equals 1 kilowatt (kW), so a generator of 10 kW can produce 10,000 watts. A microwave uses approximately 1200 watts to operate, while a bulb consumes around 60 watts.
You will need a larger generator to power more devices. A typical portable device can produce between 2 kW and 4 kW. However, a whole-house generator that powers your entire home will have a rating of 20 kW.
A small generator with 5-10 kW can be sufficient if you only need to keep the lights on and run your fridge and freezer. Medium-sized homes usually have a 20-22 kW range to cover air conditioners and furnaces.
#2 Electrical Connections
An automatic transfer switch is used to start standby generators in the event of a power cut. The switch can transfer power control to another breaker panel depending on the configuration. This will only send electricity to the circuits that you have chosen to be powered. A licensed, certified electrician will need to set this up for you during the generator hookup service to make sure it’s done safely.
#3 Plumbing Connections
If using natural gas or propane, you will need to connect your propane tank or natural gas line to your generator. Also, ensure you have the right valves fitted. It is possible to save money on installation costs by purchasing cheaper valves, but these may be the wrong type and can have deadly consequences.
#4 Building Permits/HOA Limitations
You may need a permit from the city and an inspection undertaken before any generator hookup service occurs. Consider any restrictions your homeowner’s association may have.
#5 Site Selection
The manufacturer will provide specific guidelines regarding the proximity of your generator to your home. You’ll also need to consider the distance between the generator’s exhaust and any entry points to your home. Some plots of land can only accommodate generators of a certain size.
A professional electrician from Mister Sparky Generators will have the experience and knowledge necessary to make sure that your next generator hookup service in Myrtle Beach, SC goes smoothly. Do not let the possibility of expensive generator installation discourage you. Pay for an appropriately-sized generator that meets your needs and choose us for your next generator installation project — you won’t regret it!