Do I Need A Whole Home Generator?

Generac Generators

By Hannah Brennan

Have you ever lost power in your home? Texas summer storms can leave you without air conditioning when you need it most. Moreover, electronics die, food spoils, and toilets run out of flushes.

With uncertainty regarding the Texas power grid, home generators provide peace of mind during any blackout.

How do whole home generators work?

Home generators, or backup/standby generators, are linked to your home and supply power when electricity is out. During an electrical outage, the generator automatically senses the outage and turns on. These generators are off until needed. However, for a few minutes every week, some generators automatically run to ensure they are in proper working order.

How do gas generators create electricity?

These generators create their own electricity using a gas combustion engine. Using natural gas or liquid propane as a fuel source, its engine fires and converts the gas to electricity. The only thing to monitor is the fuel tank, ensuring there is enough fuel in the system. 

There is a rotor on the engine’s shaft that feeds into the alternator. When the shaft rotates, mechanical power converts into electrical power for your home.

Whole home generators vs. portable generators

Whole home generators create power for your entire home during power outages. However, portable generators need electricity to function. Typically, portable generators will power tools for outside the home. If you want to ensure you will be protected from outages, whole home generators are the ideal choice.

Why have a whole home generator?

• Bad Weather → In severe weather conditions, electricity could be out for days or even weeks.
• Electric Car → If you have an electric car, a backup generator is nearly a necessity in case of an emergency. 
• Work From Home → Outages at home can cost you money. Keep all your electronics working with a generator.
• Rely On Well Water → Plenty of rural areas rely on wells and their electric pumps to bring water to the home. Without electricity, these areas have no access to water.
• Home Comfort → Home appliances and systems such as your air conditioner, refrigerator, and even lights can stay on with a home generator and keep you comfortable!

Where do I put my home generator?

Most backup generators are placed outside the home on a concrete slab. It needs to be outside or in a well-ventilated area because it uses gas as fuel. Depending on the size, the louder the generator is while running. 

How do I take care of my generator?

Whole home generators require annual maintenance, similar to that of an HVAC system. For instance, your generator will need air filters changed, a visual inspection of the parts, clean the exterior, change the oil, and monitor the spark plugs. The best, and most efficient, way to complete this maintenance is to call a professional from Malek Service Company. 

What is the best whole home generator?

While there are many options for whole home generators, we recommend Generac generators. With over 60 years of experience, Generac has been able to offer more affordable and reliable generators than other brands. Generac generators have a Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode that allows the generator to be quieter and more efficient.

Call us or schedule an estimate to learn more about installing a whole home generator at your residence. 

Check out our blog about how to choose the best contractor for you and your home.