Buying a Whole House Standby Generator? What You Should Know

Having emergency backup power like a standby generator should be an essential part of every home. Outages can happen at any time, from a simple electrical malfunction to bad weather or a natural disaster, and a standby generator keeps you and your family comfortable and secure. Since it is an investment, choose a unit that fits your household needs.

Five features to look for

1. Automatic shutoff

Do not underestimate this safety feature on high-capacity units. Automatic shutoff turns the generator off if it begins to overheat, and the same switch turns it on automatically during an outage so you do not fumble in the dark to start it manually.

2. Type of enclosure

Standby generators sit outside and need a sturdy enclosure that withstands years of harsh weather. Look for brands with a steel or corrosion-resistant composite enclosure. If sound is a concern, you may add an extra enclosure, but consult your installer first.

3. Warranty and delivery

Read the fine print on the warranty; most manufacturers offer 4 or 5 years, so make sure you are happy with the coverage before buying. Since standby units are large and heavy, buy from a qualified Cummins dealer that offers delivery, installation, maintenance, and service.

4. Generator capacity

Capacity is the most important feature. First work out your home's total power needs, then decide whether you need backup for everything or whether a smaller unit keeping essentials running will do. Use a wattage calculator to estimate capacity based on home size and equipment.

5. Generator fuel source

Large-capacity standby generators run on natural gas or propane. Natural gas is the preferred choice and is slightly less expensive; if no gas line is available, schedule delivery and installation of a propane tank instead.

A&A GenPro's skilled technicians help you evaluate your space and choose the right size and level of generator. Call (713) 715-6618 or request a free quote today.