Vancouver has great weather and unforgettable views. That is why the city is always teeming with visitors who get to get a feel and taste of the place. However, with all its beauty, there are times when the power goes out, and for a city that thrives on electric power, this can be more of a problem than anyone can imagine.
The good news is that standby generators can save the day, especially when they are large enough to power entire houses, whether residential or commercial. But grabbing the first one in sight at the store is not ideal; you need to know what fits your needs. So, let’s take a look at standby generators and how you can make the right choice, whether you’re in Vancouver or anywhere else.
What to Consider When Selecting a Standby Generator
As mentioned, the best fit is not always the first one you see. So, how do you make the right choice? Here are a few things to consider:
Power Needs
This is about the most important consideration. You must know how much power you need for the house, which means calculating wattage. Now, not every appliance must be powered with standby generators when the power goes out. So, you must decide the most important things and how much power they need. However, you can go for an option that can power everything if you don’t mind the cost.
Noise Level
If you already have a power generating system picked out for your home, the one thing you should worry about is the noise. In almost every residential area, generators need to be somewhat quiet. This is because noise pollution is a serious thing.
Warranty and Support
A warranty and excellent customer service are good places to start when purchasing a generator for your building. Having a brand that is trusted, with warranty coverage and good customer service can put your mind at ease a little.
Installation and Maintenance
Professional Installation
Proper installation is essential to buying a standby generator. Your technician will need to install a connection to your home and the gas main (or propane tank), and the system will need to be anchored to the ground. The work needs to be up to local code, safe, and well done.
2. Regular Maintenance
To check up on the health of your generator, it is recommended that you have regular maintenance to make sure everything is running sufficiently. Proper maintenance should include:
- Testing the generator periodically
- Checking fuel levels and connections
- Cleaning or replacing air filters
- Inspecting the battery and connections
Most dealers and installers recommend annual maintenance on most systems, alternating to semiannual maintenance on generator sets that run a lot.
Cost of Standby Generators
Buying a generator for your home will cost, give or take, somewhere in the range of $1,750 to $5,000. The cost is dependent on the size of the system and its quality.
For a system of about 5-10kW (kilowatts), the cost should be about $3,000 – $5,000. You will also get some cool features and durability to last for some time.
For medium systems, ranging from 10kW – 20kW, the cost will be a little higher, around $5,000 to $10,000. These systems can handle an entire home’s electricity and will come with more features to last you many years.
20kW to 45kW systems are much bigger and will cost you a pretty penny, well above $10,000 in some cases. The fact that such systems are used for heavy-duty appliances and other usages, but you can pay in installments if you choose the right vendor.
You should also think about the installation cost, which can take an extra couple thousand dollars out of your pocket. This could cost from $2,000-$5,000, although it depends on the installer’s pricing and if your system or property requires any additional work. Click here to learn the importance of using a professional for the job.
Tips for Buying a Standby Generator
Assess Your Home’s Power Needs: Before you get to the process of purchasing a generator, you need to get an idea of what you’re looking for. What do you think is essential to power and what can wait until the fall and winter seasons are out of the way?
Get Pricing: When you have a list of pros and cons of your future generator system, you should get an idea of the costs and additional support. This should rank high on your priority list.
Get a Reference: When looking for a generator, you want the best vendors. You can only find this by getting reviews on them. Find a reliable installer who has the experience and training you can trust.
Plan For Regular Maintenance: You will also need to provide for maintenance. So, account for system checks. This critical step will keep your generator running well for years.
Who Needs a Standby Generator?
Standby generators are a valuable investment for:
Homeowners: Keep your family safe and comfortable during power outages.
Business Owners: Maintain operations and prevent revenue loss during blackouts.
Medical Facilities: Ensure uninterrupted power for life-saving equipment.
Remote Locations: Provide reliable power in areas with limited access to utilities. To decide whether or not you need one of these utilities, follow this resource: https://www.tomsguide.com/.
Conclusion
A standby generator protects against life’s most unpredictable and potentially destructive glitches. From keeping your family comfortable to preserving your valuable electronics, the perks of a standby generator make the purchase well worth it.
The question is: are you willing to invest in a standby generator? If you’re eager to get the process started, take a look at quality options for sale near you and enjoy a lifetime of peace of mind with an endless supply of power in your home.
Also Read: Choosing the Right Backup: A Guide to Types of Emergency Generators
