You have two options: either get a large portable generator that you can move around, or install a home standby generator that is permanently connected to the house. A portable generator is the cheaper and more flexible solution, while a stationary standby generator is the more expensive but long term solution to the problem of power failures.

Introduction

The ideal solution to power failures is to install a home standby backup generator because it is permanently connected to a fuel line and to the house. This eliminates the constant refueling and unrolling of extension cords associated with a portable generator.

A whole-house home standby generator is the best for home use because it can run for many days on either propane or natural gas. It is also safely connected to the house through a home transfer switch.

Of course, such powerful luxury comes at a price: a home standby generator is an investment that stays with the house. However, these generators will keep the lights on when the power fails. If installed correctly by a professional, then it should be able to run for many days without stopping or refueling.

The generator should always be connected to the electrical system of the house via a transfer switch to prevent damage to the house or utility workers working on the power lines.

A home standby generator is usually connected to either a natural gas fuel line or a large propane tank. Standby generators that run on diesel fuel are very rare and might need to comply with additional regulations. It is easier to use propane or natural gas as a fuel source.

A home standby generator can provide most or all of the power needs of a modern household. The size might range from 7000 watts up to 22000 watts or even more.

A quick note on phases: for most homes, a single-phase generator should be sufficient. However, you might want to get a three-phase generator if you need backup power for your business.

Home Standby Generator That Runs On Natural Gas Or Propane

Home standby generators can power your essential household appliances during a power outage. Generac has a few home standby models that are part of their Guardian series.

For example, a Generac Guardian 10 kW home standby generator is a good choice for basic home backup power. It can be connected to the electrical system of your house with a 100 watt transfer switch that prevents power from the generator accidentally feeding back on to the utility power lines.

Yet, what if your budget is constrained, like most people’s budget? Well, Generac does offer a budget-friendly version of their home standby generators called the PowerPact series. The Generac PowerPact is smaller and more affordable when compared to the Guardian series. It provides 7500 watts of backup power for your home and is capable of operating up to 8 circuits with a 50-amp automatic transfer switch.

There are other manufacturers that also make home standby generators, such as Briggs & Stratton. For a small home, you might get a Briggs & Stratton 10 kW or even 12 kW automatic standby generator.

Home Standby Generator That Runs On Diesel Fuel

Generac does make a home standby generator that runs on diesel: it is the Protector series. The Protector series diesel generator sets are available in various standby power ratings from 15 kW up to 50 kW.

These diesel generators produce power with less than 5% total harmonic distortion that is similar to utility power. These models also have electronic voltage regulation that adapts quickly to changes in the power load. The Generac Protector series also comes with its own line of transfer switch systems.

Conclusion

Depending on the size of your home, you can choose a smaller or larger size generator to power a few essential circuits or the whole house. A standby generator is the best option if you want to power an entire home. Furthermore, some home standby generator systems will start automatically once it detects a power failure.

A portable generator can be used in an emergency or unexpected power outage. A dual fuel portable inverter generator such as the Westinghouse WGen12000DF gives you the flexibility to use either gasoline or propane as a fuel source during a power cut.

If your home needs less than 10,000 watts, then a portable generator can do the job. However, you will need much more than 10,000 watts if you want to power a whole house.

Photo by Brian Babb on Unsplash.