Picture this: a monstrous storm approaches, and the lights go out across your whole street, leaving you in total darkness. Then, like magic, a flicker of light and BAM! You have power.
The fridge is cold, the heat or AC kicks back in, and your family is safe and sound.
That’s the magic of a backup generator installation. But too many Property owners get caught in panic-buying a generator right before or after a huge storm, only to discover their new machine is too small to power the essentials, can’t be refueled during an outage, or doesn’t meet building codes.
Four Costly Mistakes and How to Ensure You Pick the Best and Get Reliable Generator Installation
Mistake 1: You Haven’t Calculated Your Real Power Needs
The biggest mistake everyone makes is picking a generator based on guesswork or the cheapest price tag. Buying a machine that’s too small will have it kicking out when you need it the most.
Underestimating Those Power-Hungry Start-Ups
Never just look at the sticker on your appliances. There’s a huge difference between ‘running watts’ (the power it needs to operate continuously) and ‘starting watts’ (the surge needed to kick-start it). Think of your fridge.
It runs on 700 watts but needs a whopping 2,200 watts just to get the motor spinning.
- To avoid this overload, list your “must-have” appliances and add up all their starting watts.
- You are only planning for today
A backup generator is an investment. Are you going to get an electric car in a few years?
Mistake 2: You Chose the Wrong Fuel or Generator Setup
Not every generator is created equal. Picking the wrong one can create major headaches when you least need them.
Portable Powerhouse or Permanent Security?
- Property owners debate between portable units and whole-house standby generators.
- Portables: Cheaper upfront. But you have to drag it outside in the storm, pull-start it in the rain, and lug those heavy extension cords to your appliances
Out of Fuel, Out of Luck
Make sure you have a practical fuel solution. Gasoline turns bad in as little as six months, and when disaster strikes, gas stations are dead too, without power. Natural gas is convenient but requires a direct line.
Propane is storable, but it takes a lot to run a generator for an extended time.
Don’t get stuck with a working generator and no gas!
Mistake 3: You Skimped on Professional Installation and Permits
Don’t cut corners here! DIY installation of generators can be illegal and downright dangerous.
Don’t backfeed! Seriously, don’t.
Backfeeding” is where you plug a portable generator into a wall outlet. It sends power back to the utility grid, potentially electrocuting line workers and starting house fires. It’s a huge no-no.
That Transfer Switch Is Non-Negotiable
To connect a generator safely, you MUST have a licensed electrician install a transfer switch. Whether manual (for portables) or automatic (for standby), it isolates your Property from the power company grid.
Mind the Codes (and Neighbors)
Generators are loud and produce CO₂ gas. Most areas require them to be placed a good distance (5-20 feet) from windows and doors. Skipping permits could cost you big bucks or even force removal.
Mistake 4: You Ignored Long-Term Maintenance and Costs
This isn’t a “set it and forget it” appliance. A generator is a machine that needs care!
It’s Not Set and Forget
Your generator needs regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and battery checks-just like a car. Most standby units test themselves automatically each week. Annual professional maintenance is crucial.
Conclusion
Choosing the right generator is a big step towards safeguarding your property and family during emergency power system outages. By avoiding these four common, expensive mistakes, you can be confident you are making a safe and smart investment. Don’t wait for the next blackout! List your must-have appliances now, or call an electrician to get a professional assessment.
FAQs
Can a portable generator run my whole house?
Generally, no. While a large portable generator can power essential appliances (like your fridge, lights, and sump pump) via a manual transfer switch, it rarely has the power capacity to run high-draw items like central A/C, electric ovens, and water heaters simultaneously.
What is an automatic transfer switch (ATS), and do I really need one?
An ATS is an electrical switch that senses a power outage, safely disconnects your property from the utility grid, and turns on your standby generator within seconds.
How often does a backup generator need to be serviced?
Standby generators should be professionally serviced at least once a year under normal conditions.
Is natural gas or liquid propane better for a standby generator?
Natural gas is often preferred because it offers an unlimited fuel supply tied directly to your utility line, meaning you never have to refill a tank.
Where should my generator be placed to ensure safety?
To avoid deadly carbon monoxide buildup, a generator must always be placed outdoors, at least 5 to 20 feet away from any doors, windows, or vents, with the exhaust pointed away from the house.