A generator can save you from the inconvenience—or disaster—of a power outage. Here's a guide to help you select the right size and type based on your needs.
Key Factors to Consider
1. Appliance Wattage
- Add up the wattage of appliances you need to power (fridge, AC, sump pump).
- Account for surge wattage, the extra power needed when some appliances, like refrigerators, start up.
2. Frequency of Power Outages
- Frequent/Prolonged Outages: Consider a standby generator or large inverter/portable models.
- Occasional Outages: Large inverter or portable generators may suffice.
- Rare Outages: Opt for a midsized or small inverter for essentials.
3. Fuel Type
- Gasoline: Most common but requires storage and stabilization.
- Propane/Natural Gas: Available for home standby generators; eliminates refueling.
4. Budget
- Small inverter generators: $450–$1,600
- Midsized inverters: $500–$2,400
- Large portables: $950–$2,000
- Large inverters: $1,300–$7,000
- Home standby: $2,000–$6,000+ (installation extra)
Generator Types and Recommendations
1. Small Inverter Generators
- Wattage: Up to ~2,000 watts
- Ideal For: Running a fridge, phone chargers, lamps, or TVs.
- Pros: Lightweight, quiet, portable, and easy to store.
- Cons: Limited capacity; can’t connect to breaker panels.
2. Midsized Inverter Generators
- Wattage: 2,000–3,500 watts
- Ideal For: Fridge, window AC, lights, and small appliances.
- Pros: Efficient, quiet, and portable.
- Cons: Limited to 110-volt items; transfer switch options are less practical.
3. Large Portable Generators
- Wattage: Up to 8,500 watts
- Ideal For: Entire home with essential hardwired equipment like well pumps.
- Pros: Affordable and versatile.
- Cons: Noisy, bulky, and requires gasoline; heavy at ~250 lbs.
4. Large Inverter Generators
- Wattage: 5,000–7,500 watts
- Ideal For: Fridge, lights, furnace, and small AC units.
- Pros: Quiet, fuel-efficient, and provides clean power for electronics.
- Cons: Expensive; limited to gasoline use.
5. Home Standby Generators
- Wattage: Up to 20,000 watts
- Ideal For: Entire home during long outages.
- Pros: Permanent installation, automatic activation, runs on natural gas or propane.
- Cons: High upfront and installation costs; immovable in flooding scenarios.
Generator Safety Tips
CO Safety Technology: Ensure your portable generator has an automatic shutoff sensor for carbon monoxide (CO).
Safe Placement: Operate at least 20 feet from your home with the exhaust directed away.
Transfer Switch: For larger generators, have a transfer switch professionally installed to connect safely to your home’s circuit.
Protection: Use an open-sided tent for portables in rain or snow.
Pro Tips for Selection
- Interactive Tools: Use wattage calculators to estimate power needs.
- Backup Power Plans: Evaluate your home's must-haves during outages, like heating, cooling, and medical devices.
- Installation Costs: Factor in professional installation for standby generators and transfer switches.
With the right generator, you’ll stay powered up and prepared, no matter the storm.
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