Should You Invest In A Backup Generator? | Marion, SC

Should You Invest In A Backup Generator? | Marion, SC

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The Marion, SC area is an area known to have rough storms. Just in the past year alone, the area has been under severe weather warnings at least 26 times. Doppler radar has detected hail around or in Marion, SC on 36 occasions, with 5 of these occasions occurring during the past year. The area also suffers from severe thunderstorms, which one could expect damage to trees and power lines.

Waiting out a storm without power is definitely not fun, especially in the summer where temperatures in the house reach up to 100 degrees. While there is a certain charm of having a candlelit dinner after the power goes out, that charm wears out quickly. There is also a matter of how quickly power can be restored. It can take longer than a day in some cases to have your power lines repaired. Meanwhile, your food in your fridge and freezer begins to spoil and melt. This is when a backup generator comes in handy.

 

When is a good time to invest in a generator?

Most people wait until they have experienced a few power outages in their home before deciding to buy one. Yet there is no best time to purchase or install a generator, it can be done anytime. It is however preferable to buy and install a generator before you experience a devastating power outage that could last for days.

I am renovating my home. Should I install a standby generator or just purchase a portable one?

There are a few types of generators. The generator you choose will depend on your power goals and budget. For example, do you want to only keep a few circuits powered up such as the kitchen and AC unit, or do you want the whole house powered up? Another factor to consider is that portable generators need to be set up manually and require fuel, which is most often gasoline. Portable generators are an issue if the power outage lasts several days unless you don’t mind frequent trips to the gas station to buy fuel. Portable generators require someone to set it up beforehand and service it in the event of a power failure, whereas a standby generator runs automatically. If natural gas is used to heat or power your house, a gas-powered generator will automatically start when there is a power outage.

I am building a new home. Should I invest in a backup generator?

Yes, absolutely. This is one of the best times to purchase a backup generator as the cost can be wrapped up into your mortgage. It is also more cost-efficient to install one during construction. You can fit your generator into the overall floor plan, saving you both time and money. The sense of security a backup generator provides is priceless, especially if you have a sump pump in your basement. The area’s frequent storms often cause flood warnings to be issued. The last thing you want is a basement flood. A generator can provide not only comfort during a storm, but also protects against damage to your home. Upon resale of your property, you can expect a 75%-100% ROI with a standby emergency generator.

How important is the size of a backup generator?

The size backup generator you choose will determine how much power you will get from your generator. You can power your whole house with a large standby generator, or power up essential items like your sump pump, various kitchen appliances, and some lighting with a portable generator. Size is one of the most important choices when it comes to choosing a backup generator. The size you choose will determine exactly how much of your home can be powered up during a power outage.

Here is your guide to generator size:

Portable generator: Powers a small limited number of items.

Medium to larger-sized models on wheels: Will power most of your essential appliances.

Large and permanently installed generators: Will power your entire home.

How Does a Standby Generator Work?

A standby generator is permanently installed whereas a portable is not. Often they have their own own weatherproof covering. They tend to use either propane or natural gas as fuel. The local area has natural gas available so models that use natural gas are a definite option. Standby generators have a life expectancy of 30 years, although they do require regular maintenance. Generally, standby generators turn on automatically in the event of a power outage, often within 30 seconds of power failure.

How Does a Portable Generator Work?

These tend to run on gasoline so they are less eco-friendly than their standby counterparts. These units produce less power than standby generators, as such, they can only be used to power up a few essential appliances. These units also produce more noise than standby generators. Portable generators require careful storage and to be brought outside when needed. You also need to protect your portable backup generator from the rain with a canopy or cover. To keep your portable unit operating, you’ll need to have a decent amount of fuel stored on your property. The plus side to a portable unit is the lower cost upfront.

What About Maintenance?

Portable generators require you to make sure that the fuel tank is empty each and every time it is not in use. Portable units also require regular maintenance to ensure fluids and fuel are in good condition. Standby generators models will often give you some kind of warning when they require maintenance. You can request a model that gives you an ample warning when it requires service, yet you should have your standby generator checked once a year by a professional.

At Mister Sparky Generator we provide the protection, service, and advice that you need to protect yourself against power outages. We have you covered for all of your backup generator needs. If you need advice on standby generators or portable generators, call us today at 843-213-6610.