5 TIPS For Buying A Whole-Home Generator
Why Buy A Whole-Home Generator? From 2003-2012, 88% of homes experienced at least one major power outage. (A major power outage means 50,000 homes lost power for at least an hour). As the US power grid continues to falter, this trend is likely to continue. A whole-home standby generator helps prevent many of the dangers associated with prolonged power outages: G! 8 Powered Medical Devices Safety & Security Lack of Heating/Cooling 5 Communication ÙÚ Comfort of Children and Seniors " Spoiled Food
Determine Your Wants & Needs Installing a whole-home generator is an excellent investment. Generators come in many shapes and sizes, with each style having its own pros and cons. Think of it like buying a car. Before you start shopping around, you probably know whether you want a sports car, an SUV, or a sedan. Similarly, you should go into your home generator search with an idea of what type of generator you re looking for. To get started, ask yourself a few key questions: How often does my power go out, and how much of an inconvenience is it? Do I want to power my entire home, or just a few key appliances? ú Ç G
Understand The Basics Unlike a portable generator, a whole-home generator is wired directly into your home s electrical systems. When the power goes out, your generator will automatically kick in, restoring power to your pre-determined systems and appliances. Most whole-home generators can be run on one of two fuel sources: propane and natural gas. Which one is right for you is entirely dependent upon the availability of natural gas in your neighborhood and your home type. Understanding the basics of how these generators work will help guide you as you consider options for your home and family. ( Y
Choose The Right Size Choosing an appropriately-sized generator depends mainly on three things: your wants, your needs, and your budget. Ç 10 KW Well Pump Sump Pump Refrigerator Microwave Lights TV Computer Ç 15 KW 20 KW+ Well Pump Sump Pump Refrigerator Microwave Lights TV Computer Air Conditioner OR Electric Range Ç If you want your generator to power things like a well pump, a water heater, a refrigerator, and a microwave, you ll be looking for something closer to the 10 KW option. On the other hand, if you need to return more appliances and functions back to their original capacity, you ll likely be looking more in the 20 KW range. After hearing your requests and inspecting your home, a comfort advisor will recommend the appropriate size to fit your home (and your budget).
Bring In The Experts Once you ve done your preliminary research, it s time to get an expert opinion. A Woodfin Comfort Advisor will come to your home, go over your options, and provide you with guidance -- for free! Remember, this is your time to ask questions. We pride ourselves on our in depth technical knowledge of home generator solutions, and we welcome the opportunity to showcase that knowledge to you! On this visit, you ll also receive an estimate and an installation timeline. As a guide, installation is usually completed over the course of two visits, spanning a week. V # $
Choose The Right Installer Many qualified electricians can install a generator at your home; however, a few key qualities separate the truly great companies from your average electricians. As you re deciding on an installer, be on the lookout for these four qualities: Dependability Do they offer a warranty or startup guarantee? 24hr Support Do they provide ongoing preventive maintenance, service, and support? Reputation What do previous customers say about their service? Reliability Do they perform all the necessary work or use subcontractors? Do they pull all the necessary permits? HINT: Beware of suspiciously low prices. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Time To Get Started Ready to learn more about installing a whole-home generator from Woodfin? Contact us today to schedule your FREE in-home consultation!! 7 o (804) 730-5000 www.askwoodfin.com 1823 N Hamilton St. Richmond VA 23230