Not that there’s ever a good time to have a power outage, but summer time would definitely be the worst. Thanks to air conditioners, our modern society has a very low tolerance for heat and when a power outage strikes, it can seem like the end of the world.
If you don’t own a power generator and don’t have a clue how to find the right one, here’s what you need to do before heading out to Home Depot.
- Ask yourself a few important questions.
Every time you make a significant purchase, it’s important to figure out exactly what you need in advance so you know what to expect in terms of features and pricing.
Which devices and appliances are essential to you?
When the power goes out, which devices are critical? For most households, the refrigerator, cellphone, smartphone charger, and air conditioner need to stay powered up.
How much power does your home use during the summer?
To answer this question, you’ll need to make a list of each appliance and its wattage requirements. Use this tool to calculate exactly how much power you’ll need.
What is your budget?
Depending on the type of generator you settle on, the price of a generator can range from a few hundred dollars, up to $20,000 for the largest standby generators.
- Research different types of power generators.
The three main types of generators are whole house generators, portable generators, and inverter generators.
Whole house generators provide blackout protection 24/7 and are permanently installed. They are powered using natural gas or liquid propane and can supply power to an entire home or to a few designated circuits.
Portable generators are designed for short-term use and don’t have the capacity to power an entire home. But if you’re only looking to power a few devices, then a portable generator is what you need.
An inverter generator is quiet, lightweight, and easy to transport. This is a great option for travel, though not typically used to power a home during an outage.
- Call Tucker Hill for recommendations and installation.
Once you’ve figured out how much power you’ll need and which type of generator you’d like, give Tucker Hill a call for help with the next steps. We’re happy to offer recommendations and take care of installation.