Power outages can be unpredictable and disruptive, especially when they affect essential systems like heating, cooling, refrigeration, and security. A whole-house backup generator ensures that your home remains powered during outages, but choosing the right size is critical. An undersized generator may not support all your necessary appliances, while an oversized unit can lead to unnecessary fuel consumption and higher costs. Understanding your power needs will help you select the right system for your home.
Assessing Your Power Requirements
The first step in selecting a generator is determining how much power your home requires during an outage. Every appliance has a specific wattage requirement, which falls into two categories:
- Running watts: The continuous power needed to keep an appliance operating.
- Starting watts: The extra power required to start an appliance, especially for large equipment like air conditioners or refrigerators.
To estimate your home’s energy needs, consider the appliances you want to keep running during an outage. Critical systems such as heating and cooling units, sump pumps, medical devices, lighting, and kitchen appliances should be factored into your total wattage calculation.
Understanding Generator Size Categories
Once you have a general idea of your power requirements, you can determine the appropriate generator size. Generators are typically categorized based on kilowatt (kW) output:
- Small Generators (10-15 kW): These can handle basic essentials such as a refrigerator, a few lights, and small appliances. They are ideal for homes needing only partial backup.
- Medium Generators (16-22 kW): A popular choice for many homeowners, this size can support HVAC systems, kitchen appliances, sump pumps, and more. It provides a comfortable balance between power and efficiency.
- Large Generators (25-30+ kW): Designed for whole-home coverage, these units can power high-demand appliances, multiple air conditioners, and even luxury features like hot tubs or electric vehicle chargers.
The right size for your home depends on your energy consumption habits and the number of appliances you need operational during an outage.
Choosing the Right Fuel Type
Another factor to consider is the generator’s fuel source. The two most common options are:
- Natural Gas: Ideal for homes with an existing gas line, natural gas generators provide a continuous fuel supply, reducing the need for refueling.
- Propane: A reliable alternative for homes without natural gas access. Propane offers a longer shelf life and can be stored on-site in designated tanks.
Your fuel choice should align with availability, storage capacity, and long-term usage.
The Importance of Professional Installation
Choosing the right generator size is only part of the equation—proper installation is essential for efficiency and safety. Garber offers professional load calculations to determine the exact power needs of your home. Our experienced technicians ensure that the generator is correctly sized, installed, and integrated into your home’s electrical system.
Planning for Future Expansion
A generator should not only meet your current energy needs but also allow for future growth. If you plan to add appliances, expand your home, or switch to electric heating, opting for a slightly larger generator can prevent the need for an upgrade later.
Trust Garber for Your Whole House Backup Generator Needs
At Garber, we help homeowners find the right generator size for their specific requirements. With our expertise in installation, maintenance, and system integration, we ensure that your home remains powered no matter the conditions.
If you’re ready to invest in a reliable whole-house backup generator, contact Garber today for expert guidance and professional service.
