What To Look For In A Backup Generator | Dillon, SC
Emergencies happen. They are a basic fact of life. Being prepared for an emergency will always keep you one step ahead of almost any situation that could put you in a bad place otherwise. Being prepared for events in which you could lose power is especially important these days, given that losing power will also lead to loss of communications and almost anything you would need to survive, including the ability to store food and water. While not something that happens very often in Dillon, SC, you can lose power for a wide range of reasons, including hurricanes and storms. In order to be prepared for any type of power loss, your best bet is to have a backup generator that will keep your lights on and your refrigerator running even under the worst conditions. But, do you know what type of generator will be the best to suit your needs? Keep in mind that not all generators are created equally, so not all will be good options for your home or business. Let’s take a look at some basic characteristics of backup generators to help you select the one that suits you best.
How Much Power Do You Need?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of backup generator selection, you must first ask yourself how much power will you need to keep your appliances running and your lights on. To figure out that amount you must check the wattage of your light bulbs and the power requirements of your appliances. If you are uncertain of your resulting amount, it’s always a good idea to ask an electrician to help you figure it out. Another important thing to keep in mind is that you should choose a generator that produces more power than you will actually need in your home in order for it to be able to support all your appliances during an emergency.
Choose the Fuel You Prefer
A backup generator will usually run on diesel or gas. In order for you to be able to choose the one that suits your home the best, it is a good idea to speak to an experienced electrician or your utility company for guidance on the type of fuel you should use to run a generator. Once you have settled on the type of fuel that works best for your needs, Mister Sparky Generators can help you select the most adequate generator for your power requirements and fuel selection.
Portable or Permanent?
While portable generators are a less expensive option, they are at greater risk for overheating or being placed in locations where they could become a danger to your home. Because of this, in the great majority of cases, a permanently installed backup generator is a better option.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay for a Generator?
This is one of those questions that are seemingly impossible to answer correctly, mostly because the cost of a generator will vary depending on the model, the amount of power it generates, the fuel it uses, and other factors, but one thing can be said with a fair amount of certainty, and that is that a gas generator will cost more than one that runs on diesel.
How Reliable Is a Generator?
When given proper maintenance, a backup generator is a very reliable source of power. As long as you keep it fueled, it will continue providing your home or business with the power you need to keep the lights on and your appliances running. At Mister Sparky Generators in Dillon, SC, we can help you keep your power on with the most reliable backup generator models on the market today.
How Long will a Generator Last?
This is another question in which the correct answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of generator you choose, but a permanently installed generator that is given proper maintenance can last about 20 years in good working order. As for how long a generator will run, it depends on the type of fuel, with diesel generators running for less time than gas generators that draw fuel from a nearby pipeline.
Where Should You Set Up a Generator?
Regardless of whether your generator is portable or permanent, the rule of thumb for setting it up is to NEVER PLACE IT INDOORS. All generators should be set up outside in an area where they are protected from the weather and where their emissions can’t get inside. Generators produce carbon monoxide and other emissions, which can cause serious injuries and even death when they are not ventilated properly.
Can I Install a Generator By Myself?
There may be some times in which you can install your own generator, especially when referring to a portable one, but if you are going to invest in a permanent generator, it is always best to get the pros to do so. Another thing to keep in mind is that you should never even try to install a gas run generator on your own. The risk of becoming seriously injured is very high and it is not worth the trouble. A professional service will ensure your backup generator is properly installed, connected and commissioned, which exponentially lowers the risk to yourself and your property. Additionally, getting professional help to install a generator will guarantee you get the most from your generator while maximizing its lifespan.
At Mister Sparky Generators in Dillon, SC we take great pride in helping our clients choose and install the best generator for their needs. Our representatives are trained to give you all the information you should have in order to make the most of your generator and can keep your lights on even during the direst of emergencies. So, don’t hesitate, if you are looking to get a backup generator for your home or business, give us a call today!