February 27, 2019
What You Need to Know About Installing a Home Backup Generator
When you live in New England, and especially on Cape Cod, every year brings the threat of storms that can cause power outages. The weather can be unpredictable, and you want to be prepared for the worst. Want to protect yourself and your family from the next blackout? Consider installing an automatic standby generator at your home. But, as with every large purchase, there are some things you should know before you buy. In this blog post, we will go over the top 6 considerations when installing a standby generator. Continue reading to learn how a standby generator works, how they work, and why you need a qualified technician to perform the job for you.
Top 6 Considerations When Installing A Home Standby Generator
1. Who is a Standby Generator Best For?
The main benefit of a standby whole house generator installation is that they will power your house for days after a power outage. Every year, living on Cape Cod brings the possibility of a hurricane or blizzard. Don’t want to live in fear of a major power outage that will cause problems for your family? Then, it might be a good idea to look into a standby generator installation. Who is a standby generator ideal for? It is best for anyone who needs uninterrupted use of electric-powered equipment. This includes businesses, families with small children, or those with medical equipment.
2. What Size Generator Do You Need For Your House?
What about the size of your generator? Do you have power requirements for installing an automatic standby generator? How many electrical appliances do you need to keep going if your power goes out? Is it the entire house or just a few appliances? These questions will guide you in choosing the standby generator sizing and power of your unit. Obviously, the more you need, the bigger the size of the unit and the more power it will require. At Hall Oil, we can supply either big or small standby generator installations.
3. How Do Standby Generators Work?
Standby generators, as opposed to portable generators, are installed on the outside of your property on a concrete slab. They should be located where it is easily accessible for maintenance and repair. These generators are directly connected to your electrical system, as well as an external fuel supply, such as natural gas, propane, or diesel.
The beauty of a standby generator is that they have an automatic transfer switch. When it detects an interruption in your main utility service, it safely switches you from that power source to the standby generator’s power. Then, it will run on the standby generator’s power supply until your normal utility service resumes working again. Once your main utility comes back online, then the standby generator shuts off.
4. Are Standby Generators Noisy?
It is important to note the amount of noise that a standby generator will generate. Older standby generators were very noisy. However, newer generators are being made nowadays that are much quieter. If you live in close proximity to neighbors, one of these quiet standby generators is probably best for you. With possible local noise ordinances, many residential generators come standard with a sound attenuated enclosure. As a result, this has meant the development of some of the quietest standby generators recently.
5. Who Should Install Your Standby Generator?
Installing a standby generator is no joke. Don’t try to do this yourself or with the help of someone who isn’t qualified. Hire a professional like Hall Oil Gas and Electric. You’ll need to determine how big of a generator you need, and how to install it at your property. The service professional can help you safely connect to your electrical system and external fuel source. Failure to use a certified and licensed professional like Hall Oil will cause you to run the risk of damaging the unit or your fuel source itself.
Please trust us – this type of project requires advanced electrical and plumbing skills, as well as knowledge of building codes, pulling permits, and inspections. So, do yourself a favor and call Hall Oil for your whole house generator installation. You’ll be glad you did.
6. How Often Should You Get Your Standby Generator Serviced?
Just like a car, you need to service a standby generator in order to maintain it properly. This means changing its oil and filter after using for multiple days in a row. So, if you want your generator to stay healthy for many years, then check the engine regularly. Not sure how to service your standby generator? We understand – there’s more to it than just checking the oil and filters. Look to the experts for an automatic generator maintenance program. A local Cape Cod service professional, like Hall Oil, can help you with servicing your equipment. Staying on top of regular maintenance will ensure that your investment lasts as long as it should.
Related: Why You Need an Annual Tune-up of Your Heating System
Hall Oil Gas and Electric: Your Cape Cod Standby Generator Installation & Service Experts
Hall Oil Gas and Electric is your go-to supplier, installer, and servicer of automatic standby generators on Cape Cod. We are proud to offer standby generators to our customers all over the Cape. When you choose Hall Oil for your backup power needs, you can expect to receive the same professionalism, workmanship, and service that our delivery and heating system service customers know and love. We are pleased to sell, install, and repair a variety of automatic standby Generac home generators. Also, our HVAC specialists can find the best generator model and size for your needs. Speak to a Hall Oil representative today to get a free consultation for installing a generator on your property.
Hall Oil Installs Other Heating Products Too
No matter your budget or type of residence, Hall Oil has a solution for you. In addition to generators, we can also help you with several other types of heating plans and services. This includes automatic heating oil delivery, heating system installations, annual heating system tune-ups, natural gas conversions, and heating service plans.
Hall Oil installs brand new heating systems across Cape Cod, including boiler and furnace installations. We are your go-to source for heating and cooling products, such as water heaters, ductless mini-split heat pumps, oil tanks, gas fireplaces, and more. So, if you have any questions regarding our heating services, installation options, or our standby generators, contact us today. You can visit us at our South Dennis office, call us at 508-398-3831, or contact us online below. Most importantly, we can answer all your questions and guide you in the right direction so that you consider all of the factors of your purchase.
