Standby Generator Video
Standby Generator
Here is my standby generator, that creates electricity automatically in case of a power outage. These standby generators are completely different from those portable gasoline generators, that you often see at tool rental stores and home centers. Those don't create nearly as much electricity and are not automatic.
This generator runs on propane, but they use natural gas. My generator creates 17,000 watts or 17 kilowatts of power. That is plenty to operate my boiler, microwave, refrigerator, well-water pump, my septic system pump, miscellaneous lighting in the house and some other circuits. Generators come in different sizes depending upon what you want to operate if the power is interrupted.
An automatic standby generator needs to be installed by a professional. These complex machines must be installed properly. Don't think for a minute, even if you are a serious DYI'er, you can do this job. They require a fancy, computerized transfer switch that automatically turns on and off when the power to your home is lost, and then restored.
Inside the standby generator control box is the transfer switch for my house. On the outside of the box, there is a light indicating whether the power is coming in from the utility company or the standby generator. In a power failure, the transfer switch flips to receive power from the generator. The switch does not allow electricity to go back outside the house through the utility company lines. This protects an utility company employee working on the lines. If power went out to the utility pole, he could be working on a line that he thinks is dead, but it is actually energized.
Secondly, there is a computer inside the panel that automatically turns the generator on once a week to exercise it. That is important so you know that the generator is working in case of that power failure.
The installer used metal conduit to run power cables from the generator to the main circuit panel in your home. Existing cables in your home have to be spliced into a new circuit panel that connects to the transfer switch. It is all very complicated, and believe me, it is not a job for a rookie.
Last year, there was a horrible ice storm here in New Hampshire. Many of my neighbors were without power for days and days and days. But my house was without power for about 5 - 6 seconds. These standby generators turn on automatically. You don't have to worry about a thing. Don't have to fuel it up. I was sitting by the fire, reading a book. It's that simple.
Standby generators are on guard 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They are waiting to do their job if the power goes out. You don't have to worry about a thing. You don't have to pull a cord to start the generator. You don't have run any extension cords. These generators are already connected to your electric system. Standby generators are fantastic.
Tim's wife, Kathy, was without power for days after a major storm. Click to read about that outage in the September 30, 2008 AsktheBuilder Newsletter
Read Rebecca's Generator Mistake in the November 29, 2015 Newsletter.
Read the December 2, 2015 AsktheBuilder Newsletter for a Standby Generator Follow Up.
What a great system to have, especially if you're in an area where the power goes out frequently!
I have a generac generator that was purchased 3 years ago through Lowes installed by a local electrician and it has gone on 3 times and I am very happy with this product.
Very interesting. I am concerned not necessarily about weather issues as I am about sabotage of the power grid. What is the potential for this to happen.
Hi Tim, considering a generator that runs on LP. Can you give some advice on how long it would take your generator to run out of LP assuming you have a 500 gal tank. I know it depends on how much juice you are using, but just looking for a base line. Would it last you a week or longer on average. And what is your advice on how full to keep it?
This is covered in the owner's manual of the unit you're considering. There is no one answer. It depends on the size of the engine.
I had a Generac system installed 3 years ago with the automatic switchover in case of a power failure. Not having natural gas, fuel is propane with two 100 gallon tanks having tank wireless monitors for resupply notification directly to the propane vendor. When considering purchasing vs rental of the tanks, evaluate the pros and cons of the propane supplier's policy on filling their rental tanks first before purchased tanks during high demand usage. Generator vendor coordinated with the propane vendor for installation of the tanks, permitting, testing, etc. Peace of mind was worth the cost, even with having had only three minor outages, none with Isaias in CT, with some unfortunately will be out up to or more than 8 days plus. My outside grill is connected to the same tanks.
Nice rundown on these. I'd like to add a few notes.
1. The ratings in ads, etc. are usually based on propane being used. Natural gas gives about 10% less electrical output, so keep that in mind when you size it.
2. If you need a bit bigger, generally it won't cost a lot more. The old "measure twice" comes to mind. And depending on where you are, keep in mind the need to power your HVAC systems - maybe a furnace (instead of a boiler), maybe your full air conditioning system, heat exchange systems. You don't have to be able to run every single appliance at the same time, but some do run together.
3. Today, most makers offer an extended warranty and service contract, some with a special deal when you first buy the unit. These systems MUST be regularly serviced. Many now 'call home' if they sense a problem in operation or testing.
4. Who you pick to install is important. Maybe the maker has a list of qualified installers. But be sure the installer will get you the needed permits and knows the rules (like how far from a window, outside wall, etc. it has to be).
5. Keep in mind that you need to hook up both to your fuel source and your electrical boxes. The longer the underground piping or conduits the more the installation will cost, but typically you will be near the electrical meter and box. It may be near your outside air conditioning units. It will need clearance from plantings as well.
Nice rundown on these. I'd like to add a few notes.
1. The ratings in ads, etc. are usually based on propane being used. Natural gas gives about 10% less electrical output, so keep that in mind when you size it.
2. If you need a bit bigger, generally it won't cost a lot more. The old "measure twice" comes to mind. And depending on where you are, keep in mind the need to power your HVAC systems - maybe a furnace (instead of a boiler), maybe your full air conditioning system, heat exchange systems. You don't have to be able to run every single appliance at the same time, but some do run together.
3. Today, most makers offer an extended warranty and service contract, some with a special deal when you first buy the unit. These systems MUST be regularly serviced. Many now 'call home' if they sense a problem in operation or testing.
4. Who you pick to install is important. Maybe the maker has a list of qualified installers. But be sure the installer will get you the needed permits and knows the rules (like how far from a window, outside wall, etc. it has to be).
5. Keep in mind that you need to hook up both to your fuel source and your electrical boxes. The longer the underground piping or conduits the more the installation will cost, but typically you will be near the electrical meter and box. It may be near your outside air conditioning units. It will need clearance from plantings as well.
6. Your gas company may need an enlarged meter and maybe even an enlarged pipe to carry the added load. You may want to inquire ahead of time so installation time doesn't come and the generator won't run.
Tim, I have a 2,300 sq. ft. one-level home that is called a "twin-home" in my area, but it's a duplex elsewhere. And I live alone. I have the usual household appliances and electronics. How large a generator should I choose and what will it cost me? And what brands do you recommend over others?
Thanks for your input.
Ann,
This is way beyond a comment reply. It requires a calculation. Go to the Kohler generator website and they have one that asks you questions. I'm going to guess you might get by with 17,000 watts. Let me know after you go through the exercise. Cost? Too many variables to even take a guess. I'm sure it's north of $10,000, but I could be wrong. Use this link to get FREE bids from LOCAL installers: http://www.homeadvisor.com/ext/32182034
Are Kohler generators still the best (better than Generac)?