Real Estate Innovation

Things You Need To Know About a Stand by Generator

In the past, most people deem it ridiculous when common households own their very own standby generator. Usually, a stand by generator would be needed only by businesses, hospitals and other establishments to supply electricity when a power outage occurs. What these people don’t know was that the stand by generator will later be considered as one of the most important piece of machinery the household cannot go without.

Nowadays, it is all too common to own a stand by generator. Families just couldn’t afford to go through yet another power outage. Important tasks might be delayed, their safety might be compromised and valuable information might get lost. If you do not want to risk this happening to you, the only answer would be for you to get a stand by generator.

What is a Stand by Generator?

A stand by generator is a variation of the electric generator, and it is permanently installed. Just as with any electric generator, it is used to supply electricity in case of a power outage. A stand by generator basically functions like your average appliance, like your air-conditioning unit, but maybe with a few differences.

A stand by generator has an engine, rather than the electric motors of an AC unit. Obviously, when a power outage occurs, the electric motors of your AC cannot function, while the stand by generator can.

Another difference is that a stand by generator uses an automatic transfer switch instead of a thermostat in order to monitor utility power. The automatic transfer switch is responsible for turning the generator on once a power outage occurs and turning it off once power is restored.

What makes stand by generators better than portable generators?

It all depends on what meets your needs. If you’d rather have a generator that is light, and can be transported anywhere, a portable generator is definitely right for you. On the other hand, a stand by generator is recommended to those who do not like having to turn the generator on every time a power outage occurs. A stand by generator also means not having to carry it with you, no power cords, and no need to fill up the gas tank.

OK. Now I know what a stand by generator is. What’s the first step in choosing the right one?

A stand by generator can either power the whole house or select circuits only. The first step in choosing one is to specify whether you want the whole house to be powered or only a few mission-critical circuits.

If you’re willing to shell out wads of cash to enjoy maximum power supply, you can get a stand by generator that has the capacity to power the whole house. A 20-kilowatt liquid-cooled generator costs $6,275 to $12,500, exclusive of automatic transfer switch and installation costs.

For those who cannot afford a stand by generator that powers the whole house, you can use a select circuit stand by generator instead. It can power 8-16 circuits and costs just $1,999 to $3,850, inclusive of the automatic transfer switch.

If you have the money to invest in a stand by generator that powers the whole house, go for it. It will be worth every cent. If you can’t afford one however, don’t fret. There are creative ways available for you to maximize your investment by reviving as many parts of the house as possible.