It’s not uncommon for there to be power outages in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Intense heat, high winds, and violent thunderstorms all could lead to power outages. When that occurs, you are at risk for:
- Spoiled food
- Flooding (especially if you do not have a battery backup to your sump pump)
- Loss of data
- Discomfort as your house becomes super warm during summer months or freezing cold if you lose power during winter months (not to mention the risk of frozen and burst pipes)
The way around that is to have a standby generator. A standby generator (aka whole house generator) provides peace of mind because it automatically switches on whenever your home loses power, providing instant and reliable protection. These are preferable to portable generators, which can move from room to room, but will not protect your whole home or turn on automatically.
Given that, here is what to consider when buying a standby generator.
Fuel Source
When buying a standby generator, you first need to pick the type of fuel you will use. Note that some generators run on diesel fuel, but these are more expensive than other fuel sources and generally more than a residential home needs.
The other two types are natural gas and liquid propane (LP). Both can power generators up to 22 kilowatt hours (KW), which is sufficient for most residences.
- Natural gas is what we would consider a preferred source because the generator is hooked up to your natural gas line, ensuring you never run out of fuel. You just need to connect the gas line to the generator.
- Liquid propane (LP) would be an alternative if you do not have a natural gas line. You do run the risk of running out of LP, so choose as large a propane tank as possible, and have a second one on hand in case the first one runs out.
Size
You will need to know how much power you will need during an outage before buying a standby generator. One consideration is whether you want to back up the whole home or just certain critical things like your sump pump, furnace, AC and refrigerator. Our sense is if you are going to invest in a standby generator, invest in one that will protect everything, including your lights, computers, and entertainment systems.
So how much power do you need? You can go online to help figure this out, or your electric contractor can help you determine how much you need.
Transfer Switch
There are automatic transfer switches that automatically power on when the generator senses a power loss, and manual transfer switches that you need to turn on. It makes sense to use an automatic transfer switch, so you do not have to worry about turning on the generator when the power goes out. This is even more important if you are not at home when there is an outage.
To buy the right transfer switch, you will need to know the amperage of your electrical service panel, which should be by the main breaker of the panel. The average home has a 200-amp main breaker.
Enclosures
Your standby generator sits outdoors, so you will need an enclosure for it. We recommend an aluminum or composite enclosure, as they will prevent corrosion and rust.
Remote Monitoring
Many standby generators offer remote capabilities, so you and/or your electrical contractor can monitor the unit via tablet or mobile phone. You will be able to check diagnostics and control the generator with this feature and can also integrate it with other “smart” systems in your home.
Maintenance
Make sure you also purchase a maintenance agreement from your electrical contractor when buying a standby generator. This plan will include scheduled service that can lengthen the generator’s life and may be necessary to keep the warranty valid. Make sure the plan includes remote monitoring by your electrical contractor. Some contractors will offer a free first year of maintenance when you purchase your unit.
Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric Can Help You With Standby Generators
The licensed electricians at Ravinia Plumbing can help you select and then install a standby generator as well as offer a free first year of our maintenance plan. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 96 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
