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A whole-home generator can be a lifesaver when it comes to unexpected power outages in your area due to severe weather, natural disasters, or overloaded electrical grids. Without it you can be left in the dark, lose internet capabilities, home appliances will stop working and your home security systems will be down.
So, if you have a whole-home generator, also known as standby and emergency generators, in your home, here are what the folks at Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric want you to know about it.
Whole-home generators run on natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Natural gas tends to be the preferred method for running generators because it’s conveniently piped in through your city’s natural gas hookups.
The generator restores power within seconds after sensing the utility is interrupted. After power is restored, it will automatically shut down. This means you don’t have to worry about it turning on and off if you aren’t at home to make sure it works. This is particularly helpful when you have a security system.
It takes several days to install an emergency generator, however the process leading up to the install can take significantly longer. In some cases, due to permitting regulations and if you are installing an underground tank, it can take upwards of 90 days to complete the entire permitting, installation, and inspection process. If it didn’t take you that long, it means that you probably have a portable generator. A whole-home generator is commonly installed outside your home by your generator contractor.
A whole-home generator has become a necessity, especially if you’re living in the South Florida area. Therefore, you must make sure it’s in tip-top shape by protecting it from the elements, such as rain and salty air.
It’s important to have your owner’s manual handy for maintenance. Information like types of oil to use and how often to replace the oil and filters on your generators can be found in the manual.
It’s important to note maintenance dates and how many hours were on the machine at each replacement. Owners usually change the oil and filters annually or after 100 hours of service.
If you’re not confident enough to do it on your own, you can always give your generator contractor a call. It’s also important to make sure to clear any leaves, grass clippings and debris that can block your generator’s louvers and air intakes.
Every month, you should conduct a visual inspection on your generator’s fuel lines, coolant level, oil level, battery, air filter and enclosures. The vibrations on your generator can loosen its fuel lines that cause oil leaks. If you notice or suspect a leak, you should call your authorized dealer immediately.
When it comes to checkups, generators conduct weekly self-testing, unless you have a portable generator that requires monthly manual exercise. Despite that, it’s advised to have your generator contractor come service it bi-annually.
These little steps make a big difference to ensure your generators continue to run for the long haul. Your generator can last for about 20 to 40 years if properly maintained!
A standby generator can be expensive – often costing $15,000 or more – but one having is a great investment. It can potentially increase the resale value of your home by 3% to 5%, according to Consumer Reports. However, the generator has to be part of your home’s electrical system for the long term and in good condition when you plan to put your home up for sale.
If you have any more questions about installing a whole-home or standby generator in your home, call the professionals at Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric in Boca Raton at 561-391-1048. We’ve been in the business for decades, so you know with Art, you’re never left in the dark.
