Buying a whole home generator is a smart way to keep your household running during unexpected outages, but there’s more to it than picking one off the shelf. From fuel type and sizing to installation and maintenance, several factors play into finding the right fit for your home.
Your location, power needs, and even seasonal weather patterns can influence your decision. Whether you’re looking to back up a few essentials or power everything, understanding the basics will help you make an informed choice.
This guide covers the key things to consider before investing in a whole home generator for peace of mind.
What Size Whole Home Generator Do I Need for My House?
The size of a whole home generator depends on your household’s energy needs during an outage. Start by deciding what you want to power, just essentials like the furnace, refrigerator, and a few lights, or your entire home. Calculating your total wattage needs is essential to avoid overloading the system or under sizing the generator.
In Minnesota, it’s especially important to consider heating systems, sump pumps, and other cold-weather equipment that must stay on during winter outages. These can add significantly to your total power requirement. A licensed electrician can perform a load assessment to help determine the right generator size for your situation. Choosing the proper size means better performance and peace of mind when the power goes out.
What Type of Fuel Should I Use for a Whole Home Generator?
Whole home generators typically run on natural gas, propane, or diesel. Natural gas is a popular choice in the Twin Cities, where homes often have access to utility lines, allowing continuous fuel supply without storage needs. Propane is common in rural areas and can be stored on-site, though it requires regular refilling. Diesel generators are powerful and budget-friendly in some cases, but they require larger fuel storage and produce more emissions.
Fuel availability during emergencies should also be considered. Natural gas is typically uninterrupted, while propane and diesel might be harder to refill. Natural gas and propane burn cleaner than diesel, with lower maintenance needs. Each fuel type affects installation, runtime, and upkeep, so it’s important to match your fuel source with your home’s location and needs.
Do I Need Professional Installation for My Whole Home Generator?
Yes, you need professional installation for a whole home generator. This process involves complex electrical work, gas line connections, and permits that should only be handled by licensed experts. In Minnesota, local codes and utility regulations often require inspections to approve the work.
The decision on if you should hire a professional electrician is about more than just plugging in a generator. A licensed installer can handle proper load balancing and set up the automatic transfer switch, so the generator starts seamlessly during an outage. Attempting a DIY installation can lead to safety hazards, expensive repairs, or even void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Professional installation gives you peace of mind and helps keep your home protected when the power goes out.
Where Can I Find a General Electrician Around the Twin Cities?
Choosing the right whole home generator involves careful planning, expert advice, and proper installation. From understanding your power needs to selecting the best fuel source and working with a licensed professional, each step plays a part in keeping your home safe and comfortable during an outage.
If you’re in the Twin Cities area and ready to take the next step, call Allpoint Electric today for a free quote! Our team is here to help you find the right solution for your home.