Power outages can strike at any time, leaving you in the dark and potentially compromising your family’s comfort and safety. With so many options available, finding the right home generator can be overwhelming. 

You need a reliable backup power solution that matches your needs and budget. Below, our crew from Miller’s Heating and Air explains how to choose the right generator for your home. 

Understanding Your Home Generator Selection Options

Knowing how to choose the right generator for your home starts with deciding between two main types: standby and portable models. Standby units are permanent installations that automatically activate when power fails. They connect directly to your home’s electrical system and can run on natural gas or propane.

Portable generators are less expensive and typically run on gasoline. They offer flexibility for temporary use and require manual setup during outages.

The decision between a standby generator versus portable options depends on your situation. Standby generators offer seamless protection, automatic operation, and higher power output levels. They require professional installation but provide peace of mind during emergencies.

Portable systems cost less initially and don’t require a permanent installation. You can store them when necessary and even take them to other locations.

Determine Your Generator Power Needs

Calculating power requirements is the most critical step in choosing home generator systems. You must identify which appliances and systems are essential during an outage.

Create a list of items you need to power, such as:

• Your refrigerator and freezer
• Heating or cooling systems
• Medical equipment
• Lighting

Add up the wattage of these appliances, including their surge requirements (the extra power needed at startup). Remember to add 15% to 25% of additional capacity to prevent overloading.

Generator Sizing Guide: Getting the Right Capacity

For most homes, power needs fall into three categories:

• Small capacity (3,000 to 5,000 watts): These can run essential appliances like refrigerators, lights, and charging devices. This level works well during brief outages. 
• Medium capacity (5,000 to 8,000 watts): These generators add capability for well pumps, small air conditioners, and more. 
• Large capacity (10,000+ watts): This provides whole-house coverage, supporting central air conditioning, electric water heaters, and nearly all appliances simultaneously for extended periods.

Home Backup Power: Safety and Maintenance Considerations

Any home backup power system requires proper safety precautions. Never operate portable generators indoors or near windows and doors due to carbon monoxide risks. Look for models with automatic CO shutoff features for added protection.

Regular maintenance ensures your generator will function when necessary. Schedule annual inspections for standby models. For portable units, run them quarterly, change oil as recommended, and keep fresh fuel available.

Miller’s Heating and Air Keeps Your Power On in Virginia Beach

A reliable home generator provides invaluable security during unexpected outages. Knowing how to choose the right generator for your home is crucial. 

At Miller’s Heating and Air, we offer comprehensive generator solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Call us today at (757) 623-6600 to discuss your needs and discover how we can help protect your Virginia Beach home from unexpected power outages.