Imagine sitting at home during a storm when suddenly the power goes out. No lights, no heating or cooling, no internet. It could be hours—maybe even days—before electricity is restored. In New Albany, OH, and surrounding areas, power outages caused by storms, grid failures, and other disruptions are common.
A whole-house generator is the best solution for homeowners who want reliable backup power. Unlike portable generators that require manual setup and can only power a few devices, a whole-house generator automatically restores power to your home, ensuring safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
We specialize in whole-house generator installation at Garber, providing expert solutions tailored to each home’s energy needs. This blog will explore how whole house generators work, why they’re essential, and how they can protect your home from the unexpected.
What Is a Whole House Generator?
A whole house generator is a permanently installed backup power system that automatically kicks in when the main power grid fails. These systems are designed to restore electricity within seconds, ensuring your essential appliances, HVAC system, and security features remain operational.
How It Works
- Automatic Power Detection – The generator’s automatic transfer switch (ATS) detects when power is lost and immediately starts the unit.
- Fuel Source Activation – Whole house generators run on natural gas or propane, allowing continuous operation without manual refueling.
- Seamless Power Supply – The generator automatically restores power to your entire home, keeping lights, appliances, and heating or cooling systems running until grid power returns.
Whole House Generators vs. Portable Generators
Power Activation: Whole house generators activate automatically when a power outage occurs, ensuring uninterrupted electricity without any manual effort. In contrast, portable generators require manual setup and activation, which can be inconvenient during emergencies.
Fuel Type: Whole house generators run on natural gas or propane, providing a consistent fuel source that doesn’t require frequent refueling. Portable generators, however, typically use gasoline or diesel, which requires regular refueling and may not be readily available during extended outages.
Capacity: A whole house generator is designed to power the entire home, including essential appliances, heating and cooling systems, and security devices. A portable generator, on the other hand, is limited to a few appliances and may not provide enough power to run everything you need.
Run Time: Whole house generators are built for long-term use, capable of running for days or even weeks as long as fuel is available. Portable generators have a much shorter run time, typically lasting only a few hours before needing to be refueled.
Safety: Whole house generators are permanently installed and designed to operate safely without carbon monoxide risks inside the home. In contrast, portable generators must be placed outdoors due to carbon monoxide emissions, which can be a significant safety hazard if not used properly.
Unlike portable generators requiring constant monitoring and refueling, whole-house generators provide automatic, long-term backup power.
By understanding these differences, homeowners can make an informed decision about which backup power solution best suits their needs.
Why You Need a Whole House Generator
1. Keeps Your Family Safe and Comfortable During Power Outages
- Maintains Heating and Cooling – Prevents heat-related illnesses in summer and frozen pipes in winter.
- Powers Security Systems – Ensures home alarms, security cameras, and smart locks remain functional.
- Prevents Food Spoilage – Keeps refrigerators and freezers running, avoiding costly food waste.
- Supports Medical Devices – Critical for homes with oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, and insulin refrigerators.
2. Protects Your Home from Storm-Related Damage
- Prevents Basement Flooding – Ensures sump pumps continue operating during heavy rain.
- Avoids Frozen Pipes – Keeps heating systems running in winter, preventing burst pipes and water damage.
3. Increases Home Value
- Whole house generators are a long-term investment that adds value to your home.
- Home buyers often look for standby power solutions in areas prone to outages.
Key Features of a Whole House Generator
1. Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
- Detects grid failure and activates the generator within seconds.
- No manual startup required—operates seamlessly.
2. Reliable Fuel Source
- Runs on natural gas or propane.
- Provides power for days or even weeks, depending on fuel availability.
Whole House Generators vs. Other Backup Power Options
If you’re comparing backup power solutions, here’s why whole-house generators stand out:
Activation: Whole house generators activate automatically during a power outage, ensuring a seamless transition to backup power without any manual intervention. Portable generators, on the other hand, require manual activation, meaning homeowners must be present to start and connect them.
Capacity: A whole house generator is designed to power the entire home, keeping essential systems like HVAC, security, refrigeration, and lighting operational. Portable generators have limited capacity, typically only supplying power to a few appliances at a time.
Fuel Type: Whole house generators run on natural gas or propane, offering a continuous fuel supply without frequent refueling. Portable generators rely on gasoline or diesel, which requires manual refueling and may not be readily available during emergencies.
Best For: Whole house generators are ideal for long-term outages, providing extended, uninterrupted power whenever needed. Portable generators are better suited for temporary use, such as short power interruptions or outdoor activities.
Understanding these differences helps homeowners choose the best generator option based on their needs, convenience, and long-term reliability.
Choosing the Right Whole House Generator for Your Home
1. Determining the Right Size
- Smaller homes may need 10-15 kW generators.
- Larger homes may require 20-30 kW to power HVAC systems, kitchen appliances, and water heaters.
- A professional assessment ensures you get the correct generator size for your home.
2. Choosing a Fuel Type
- Natural Gas – Provides continuous power as long as there’s a municipal gas supply.
- Propane – Ideal for homes without natural gas lines; stored in on-site tanks.
3. Professional Installation
- Placement must follow local codes and safety regulations.
- A certified electrician ensures proper wiring, transfer switch setup, and testing.
Why Choose Garber for Whole House Generator Installation?
1. Expert Installation & Custom Solutions
- Garber’s team evaluates your home’s energy needs and recommends the best system.
- Our licensed professionals ensure safe installation and compliance with local codes.
2. High-Quality Equipment & Dependable Service
- We provide industry-leading whole-house generators designed for long-term durability.
- Generators are built to withstand severe weather and heavy usage.
3. Ongoing Maintenance & Support
- Routine oil changes, battery inspections, and system diagnostics.
- 24/7 support for troubleshooting and emergency repairs.
Conclusion
Power outages are unpredictable, but your home’s safety doesn’t have to be. A whole-house generator provides automatic, reliable backup power, ensuring comfort and security no matter the weather.
At Garber, we specialize in whole-house generator installation and maintenance, offering customized solutions to keep your home powered when you need it most.
Don’t wait for the next outage—be prepared! Contact Garber today to learn more about whole-house generators and backup power solutions.
