What You Need To Know When Buying A Generator

First of all, decide what your power priorities are. If the power goes out, are you hoping to keep a few things running, or to power your whole home? It's a good idea to make a list of your needs and wants and figure out how much energy it would take. Between a refrigerator and a few computers, you might use more power than you thought. That information should give you a good place to start looking at generators.

If you want a whole-home generator, you should have an electrician install a transfer switch. A transer switch connects your generator to your home’s circuit panel and makes it easier to use. It can also help protect you from shocks. It's also wise to consider what fuel you want to use. Gasoline and propane both have specific storage requirements, and using your home’s natural gas needs a professional to hook it up.

PORTABLE GENERATOR

Portable generators can be cheap and versatile. But it's important to remember that they need maintenance and gasoline to work. Gasoline storage can be dangerous, so be cautious. Carbon monoxide is another serious threat. That's why you should keep it at least 15 feet from your home, doors, or windows. Never use one in an enclosed space.

STANDBY GENERATOR

The home standby generator is your largest-capacity generator. These units are permanent, so an electrician should install them. That extra cost is something to consider when checking out your options. But if you choose to go with a standby generator you get a system that kicks on by itself when the power goes out. You can even choose whether to use propane or a direct hookup to your home’s natural gas line to run it.