How to Choose the Best Standby Generator for Your Home

Have you ever experienced a lengthy power outage that left your home without electricity for heat, lights, refrigeration, and other essentials? Or wanted backup power during severe storms but weren’t sure where to start?

Investing in a standby generator for your home can provide reliable protection against electric grid failures. It automatically turns on within seconds when utility power is lost, keeping critical appliances running. This prevents food spoilage, ensures basic heating or cooling continues, and avoids other inconveniences of extended outages.

But with so many standby generator options on the market, how do you select the right size, fuel type, and model? What features and placement considerations matter most? And what are typical installation costs?

This in-depth guide covers everything homeowners need to know about choosing the best home standby generator system. You’ll learn how to:

Calculate electrical load requirements
Compare fuel types – natural gas, propane, or diesel
Evaluate key generator features like voltage, noise, and connectivity
Determine ideal placement based on safety, permits, and weather protection
Understand routine maintenance needs
Compare top standby generator brand models and warranties
Get professional generator installation and ongoing service
Decide overall value based on the purchase price, operating costs, and more

Let’s explore these key decision points and considerations to help you invest in the optimal standby generator for your home.

Why Your Home Needs a Standby Generator

Before diving into the details of selecting and installing a unit, let’s look at the core reasons homeowners invest in these permanently installed backup power systems:

Protection From Power Outages

The number one motivation is having an automated source of electricity when the utility grid fails. According to the US Energy Information Administration, the average US home experiences around 5-10 power outages per year, with some areas seeing 15+ annually. Outage numbers also rise after major storms, floods or grid reliability issues.

Rather than suffering through hours to days without power – including losing food in refrigerators and freezers or dealing with extreme indoor temperatures – a standby generator seamlessly takes over to supply key circuits. It automatically runs appliances like:

Refrigerator & freezer
Lights, outlets, and other essentials
HVAC system (heating/cooling)
Medical devices
Security system

This capability brings substantial convenience and prevents safety issues or property damage.

Backup Power for Storms and Emergencies

In addition to bridging typical electricity grid outages, homeowners in regions prone to severe weather invest in standby generators for added defense. Hurricanes, ice storms, tornadoes, and other events can cause exceptionally long and widespread blackouts.

Rather than evacuating or struggling through dangerous conditions without power, an automatic backup supply from a permanently installed unit keeps critical systems running. This allows families to safely shelter in place until utility crews complete repairs.

Off-Grid Capabilities

In remote areas beyond the electric grid, homeowners use standby generators as the primary power source. Paired with solar arrays or other renewable energy, these whole-house generator systems provide completely off-grid lifestyles.

Peace of Mind

Regardless of outage frequency or duration in your area, having backup assurance gives homeowners confidence and comfort. Just knowing essential appliances will keep running during blackouts, and that your home’s crucial systems won’t fail when you’re away, provides significant peace of mind.

How to Size Your Standby Generator

One of the most important steps in the standby generator selection process is choosing adequate capacity to handle your home’s electrical loads. In generator terms, capacity equates to wattage (measured in Watts).

You’ll need to calculate the total running watts typically required across desired circuits, then use that load number to size an appropriately powerful unit.

Calculate Electrical Load Requirements

First, tally which lights, appliances, and other items you want to power during an outage. Your standby generator runs selected circuits through an automatic transfer switch that detects loss of utility supply.

So focus on only essentials rather than entire home coverage. Common inclusions are:

Refrigerator
Freezer
Furnace fan/blower
Air handler for AC
Sump pump
Kitchen circuits (outlets, lights, appliances)
Washer/Dryer
Home office
TV & internet equipment
Security system

For each circuit, note connected devices and required watts:

Major appliances = check the unit label for watt rating
Light bulbs = add watts of all bulbs on the circuit
Outlets = assume 1500 watts continuous draw unless measured otherwise
Hardwired equipment = check model wattage spec

Then total the individual circuit loads for your whole-house wattage needs.

Be sure to account for any future electric increases too – perhaps planning to add an electric vehicle charger down the road or pool heating equipment. This prevents buying undersized.

Choose Sufficient Generator Wattage

Use your total calculated home load and add 20-30% extra capacity as a safety buffer. This overhead accounts for:

Start-up power surges – appliances/devices initially draw more watts upon turning on before settling into normal running loads. Air conditioners are a major example requiring very high starting currents.
Simultaneous loads – your full circuit total assumes everything wouldn’t run together, but some overlap is inevitable.
Capacity decreases over time – like most equipment, generators lose a bit of oomph from wear & tear over years of use.

Oversizing by 1.2 to 1.3 times your base load is perfect. Then compare your needed capacity against various generator models’ max wattage ratings. This indicates which has enough power to drive your backed-up electrical demands.

Professional electricians also offer load calculation services if you prefer turnkey sizing assistance.

Standby Generator Fuel Source Options

In addition to providing enough wattage capacity, choosing a suitable standby generator fuel type is vital. Models run on natural gas, diesel, or propane supply sources:

Natural Gas Generators

For homes already on utility natural gas service, tying into existing gas lines for the standby generator fuel feed is convenient and cost-effective. There’s no need to periodically refill any onboard fuel tank since infinite piped supply is available anytime.

Nat gas also wins on long-term affordability thanks to lower residential energy rates compared to alternatives. Maintenance needs are moderate.

On the downside, areas lacking gas line infrastructure install additional upfront piping for generator fuel intake. Areas prone to gas network breaks during natural disasters are also at risk despite having a generator.

Diesel Standby Generators

Diesel-powered systems store their long-lasting fuel supply onsite in integrated, large-capacity tanks (~60-100 gal.). Reduced maintenance needs combined with very reliable cold-weather performance make diesel generators popular picks.

The tradeoff is having to manually refill the diesel supply when depleted – unlike automatic natural gas. Tank corrosion and fuel stability/rotations are required too. Upfront unit costs also tend to exceed the other fuel options.

Propane / LP Gas Generators

For homeowners without natural gas, propane (liquefied petroleum / LP gas) is the leading fuel choice given easy portability and storage. No underground pipes or tanks are necessary. Self-contained propane capacity ranges from 60 to 150+ gallons.

Drawbacks include moderate runtimes before needing propane refills, along with the hazards & environmental/code considerations of keeping large flammable/explosive tanks onsite. Fuel expenses may be higher than natural gas too.

Key Fuel Choice Considerations

To choose the optimal energy source, weigh these aspects in the context of your property:

Available utility connections
Upfront fuel line/tank installation costs
Local utility provider prices
Typical weather-related outage durations (to gauge needed runtime)
Natural gas distribution & offsite generator compatibility
Onsite space for fuel system
Refilling convenience/logistics
Local codes and fire/environmental considerations

Discuss options with qualified generator installers to match the right fuel infrastructure to your home setup and regional factors. Blends using dual fuels are also possible for maximum flexibility.

Evaluating Key Generator Features & Functions

All reputable home standby generator models on the market provide the core capability to automatically power backed-up circuits when the utility supply drops offline. But looking beyond that basic feature, additional electrical factors, outputs, and functionality can vary:

Voltage & Phase Output

Voltage determines compatibility and backups for either:
120V systems to run smaller household loads on a single-phase
240V for larger equipment/appliances or multi-phase whole-home coverage
Phase further dictates supported circuits:
Single-phase – 120 or 240V for simpler household loads
Three-phase – Mainly for industrial sites, commercial buildings or very large properties needing robust power for heavy-duty equipment spanning multiple circuit breaker panels.

Consider whether you simply need backup lighting and kitchen/laundry appliances on 120V household circuits only. Or if you also require a beefier 240V supply for well pumps, HVAC condensers or other larger gear – dictating 240V single or three-phase abilities.

Installation pros assess your home configuration to spec the proper electrical outputs.

Circuit Breakers & Power Distribution

Sufficiently powerful breaker panel(s) safely channel generated watts across your covered circuits via the transfer switch. Withstand ratings and type vary:

The main breaker size (amps) must meet your total load
The number of circuits/breakers should match your backed-up branch count
Load center models include integral breaker panel
Separate external panels house supplied breakers

Again, the generator’s integrated current ratings and electrical infrastructure must align with your specific home wiring and devices for safe functionality.

Generator Enclosures

Units come in open-frame or enclosed cabinets:

Open-frame models are typically only weather-resistant on their control panels. They must be sited indoors or under protective cover to prevent external equipment damage. Cheapest option.
Metal enclosures shield the entire generator, allowing flexible outdoor placements. But noise emissions remain.
Sound-attenuated enclosures use high-density acoustic insulation for remarkably quiet operation as low as 52 decibels. Allows flexibility even near bedrooms or gatherings. The preferred solution where noise matters.

Extreme Weather Operation

Generators rely on internal combustion engines susceptible to failure in sub-zero cold. So adequate protections ensure reliable running no matter the temps if you experience frigid winters:

Cold weather coolant improves viscosity
Battery & oil warmers ease ignition
Enclosures or insulation retain warmth
Engine block heaters further protect

Additional Integrated Features & Options

Advanced generators boast extra capabilities via digital controls, connectivity, and accessories:

Link to home automation systems for remote monitoring and operation via smartphone
WiFi enables wireless data logging, alerts, and diagnostics with vendors or technicians
Multiple fuel capability allows switching between direct natural gas and LPG/propane tanks to prevent disruption based on outage scenarios
Extended-run tanks and kits provide larger fuel capacity if afforded space on smaller properties
Supplemental solar power inputs let standalone solar arrays or batteries contribute additional runtime during longer multi-day outages.
Portability kit trailers allow large generators to be towed to alternative rural sites as needed
Hospital-grade outlet guarantees perfectly stable power for delicate medical equipment despite dips elsewhere

Carefully evaluate which bonus attributes matter for your situation or possible future needs if investing in premium standby power protection.

Ideal Standby Generator Placement

Beyond technical specifications, homeowners must consider physical placement factors so their backup system runs safely while avoiding hazardous or disruptive conditions:

Follow Safety & Building Codes

Strict regulations govern generator installations to avoid fires, explosions, electrocution risks, or CO poisoning:

Verify separation distances from windows, doors, HVAC intakes, and occupied areas
Maintain ample clearance around fuel lines, exhaust piping, and hot components
Ensure weather-protected, tamper-resistant housing if outdoors
Get all required permits and pass inspections before operation

Consider Noise Impacts

Even “quiet” home standby units emit up to 60-70 dB of engine/exhaust drone and vibration. This disturbs households and neighbors if poorly positioned:

Keep greater than 7 m distance from bedrooms and patios
Add sound baffles behind the unit if bordering other properties
Face exhaust away from gathering areas or sightlines

Accommodate Fuel & Exhaust Infrastructure

Generators require various mechanical linkages plumbed to external areas, constraining possible placements:

Propane models need large onboard tanks plus intake/return fuel lines.
Natural Gas types involve new direct pipe feeds trenched from the main utility line.
Diesel generators require filler access plus spill catchments and ventilation around tanks.
All units need exhaust piping safely routed away from windows and intake flows according to code.

Professional guidance for ideal system orientations is vital.

Secure From Theft & Interference

These expensive investments warrant properly controlled access so they’re not stolen or damaged:

Locked, tamper-proof metal or concrete enclosures
Installation above ground level to inhibit water submersion or flooding
Avoid openly visible locations attractive for theft
Alarm systems to notify about physical interference

With good positioning that meets technical specifications, your home generator brings years of seamless backup protection.

Understanding Routine Standby Generator Maintenance

While today’s automatic standby systems are designed for convenient hands-off operation, they still rely on mechanical and electrical components needing periodic maintenance to keep performing reliably over decades:

Testing & Exercising

It’s crucial to verify normal functioning and run diagnostics by having units exercise under load at least monthly. This confirms full operational readiness when actually needed during a real powers loss. Never just assume your system works unless tested!

Exercise runs also prevent stale fuel or mechanical issues from sitting idle. Checking battery charging, wiring integrity, filter statuses and combustion quality during tests gives technicians a head start addressing any minor issues promptly too.

Fluid Changes

Oil, coolant and filter changes every 100-200 running hours (or annually if unused) ensures optimal internal lubrication and engine cooling year-round. This maintenance matches most manufacturers’ specifications.

Skipping fluid upkeep accelerates wear or valve/seal leaks over time. Extreme outdoor conditions may necessitate more frequent inspections and rotations than milder climates.

Fuel & Additive Care

Models running on liquid propane or diesel stores require special fuel precautions for long equipment life and outage readiness:

Top off tanks before severe weather seasons when prolonged supply is crucial
Add stabilizer chemicals to handle aging diesel or gasoline during normal conditions
Treat tanks for moisture or algae risks in humid regions
Rotate supply before expiration/degradation sets in from storage – usually under 12 months depending on formulation

Connection & Wiring Inspections

Technicians should check associated generator wiring, cables, pipes/hoses and linkages during routine maintenance for:

Loose electrical contacts
Leaky, worn or crimped fuel/exhaust lines
Corrosion especially on battery terminals or outdoor enclosures
Rodents or insect nests that chew insulation
General wear plus weathering cracks on sound enclosures

Addressing minor connection issues promptly is essential to avoid bigger problems or downtime.

Schedule maintenance periods per manufacturer guidance to keep your major generator investment running reliably whenever needed.

Comparing Top Standby Generator Brands & Models

Industrial generator manufacturers produce home standby product lines alongside commercial units. Across popular brands like Generac, Cummins/Onan, Kohler, Briggs & Stratton and Champion, you’ll find models scalable to residential needs with considerations like:

Enclosed weather resistance
Quieter noise ratings as low as 52 dBA
Smaller size footprints to fit home placement constraints
Single fuel capability with integrated tanks as warranted
Simplified controls and maintenance procedures

Let’s compare technical specifications and ratings amongst the market’s top rated and most reliable players:

You’ll notice strong diversity in capacities, supported fuel sources and backup duration targeting different homeowner scenarios. Warranties often dictate overall brand confidence more so than buying only by model numbers or ratings alone.

Evaluate both product specs and reputation based on first-hand reviews. Installers also typically recommend or prefer working with certain brand product lines they trust and source parts/support for locally.

Getting the right professional partnership matched to equipment capabilities you understand is key – rather than just buying standalone on model specs alone.

Why Professional Installation Is Essential

Attempting generator or electrical work without licensed credentials and experience risks equipment problems, voided warranties or serious hazards if incorrectly handled.

Always hire certified local pros for standby unit placements:

Ensure Proper Sizing & Hookups

A reputable vendor’s consultation should start by gathering details on your home systems, loads and outage priorities. This drives suitable generator and switchgear selection considering:

Electrical panel capacity & phases
Appliance/device wattages
Runtime duration needs
Fuel infrastructure
Load controlling to prevent tripping

The transfer switch integrating with utility supply is extremely delicate work reserved only for qualified electricians.

Meet Building & Safety Codes

Permitted generator installations must satisfy numerous local regulations governing safe practices. Professionals ensure:

Proper handling of fuel systems to avoid contamination, explosions or environmental hazards
Ventilated generator housing preventing dangerous CO buildup
Fail-safe transfer switchgear not backfeeding utility lines or risking electrocution
Watertight enclosures seal out moisture or floods
Exhaust directed safely away from doors, windows and intake vents per code
Sound buffering meets noise ordinances
Tamper-protected, well-grounded electrical boxes and conduits

Lacking any such precautions risks injury, fines, lawsuits or very expensive damage if your system isn’t fully compliant.

Simplify Maintenance & Repairs

You’ll want assurance that qualified service networks are available to assist once your generator is running. Perks like mobile fleet maintenance, discounted parts inventories and rapid emergency response give peace of mind your valuable investment stays reliable for the long haul.

Seek out licensed dealers belonging to reputable brands’ dealer networks within your region. Review maintenance packages beyond just basic annual tune-ups too.

Understanding Standby Generator Costs

There’s no single universal price tag to define a “good deal” on home generators. Many variables in local equipment, builds and site-specific complexity swing costs widely. But understanding the main factors affecting budget overall helps set realistic expectations:

Main Elements of Total Home Generator Cost:

Generator unit purchase price
Transfer switch gear
Installation labor
Permits, site surveys, drawings
Fuel system parts & configuration
Base pad, housing or weather enclosures
Applicable sales taxes

Ongoing Considerations Affecting Total Cost of Ownership Over Time:

Fuel consumption & supply
Manual or automatic exerciser utilities
Testing & inspection service rates
Fluid maintenance
Load bank diagnostics
Major part replacements
Remote monitoring subscription plans (optional)

Ballpark investment ranges go from around $5,000 to $15,000+ for complete installed systems. Smaller portable units fall under $5,000 (with less capacity and manual operation). And large permanent whole-home setups with premium enclosures, dual fuel kits or residential-grade warranty maintenance easily justify $15-25,000+.

Get multiple upfront quotes from licensed integrators to compare options matching your property’s custom needs. And weigh ongoing costs over decades against the advantages of outage protection.

Key Decision Factors on Home Standby Generator Value

With so many considerations around optimal standby power systems for households, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed evaluating if the investment is justified, and what capabilities best match your situation.

Let’s recap key questions homeowners should ask themselves when objectively assessing value:

Do the Benefits Outweigh the Costs For You?

How many and how long are typical outages in your area?
What household systems or members are vulnerable without backup power?
Are harsh weather risks increasing in frequency or severity long term?
Can you financially absorb expensive food spoilage, water damage etc?
Is peace of mind and outage insurance worth the major purchase cost?

If your home risks and electrical needs warrant it, generators often prove very worthwhile despite high upfront pricing.

How Much Would a Standby Generator Save You?

Estimate costs from recent outages like replacing spoiled food/medications, staying at hotels, eating out, loss of income sources etc.
Factor long term reductions in utility bills by running essentials off a generator fueled by cheaper natural gas
Compare against paying typical monthly generator financing payments or rental fees instead

Crunch the numbers to see if returns offset your real-world losses and inconveniences experienced now.

Are You Able to Make Effective Use of Backup Power?

Does your home layout or family situation allow easily restricting electric usage to key circuits, without exceeding generator capacity attempting to run too many loads?
Are codes, permits, equipment space or other restrictions blockers to properly installing home standby equipment?
Can you responsibly maintain the generator long term given your interest or ability to handle mechanical systems?

If limitations exist preventing you harnessing the technology’s potential, seek alternatives like preparedness plans, portable units or community shelter options instead during grid failures.

Carefully weighing feedback to the above questions will determine if and where investing in permanent standby power generation makes sense for your household now or later down the road. Consider both emotions and numbers – outages trigger real anxiety and expenses for many families, but generators carry major budget impacts as well.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Key Takeaways: Modern home standby generators automatically supply backup electricity to keep essential appliances safely running during grid power failures. Homeowners need to evaluate options matching their family’s electrical loads, fuel availability, weather risks and total budget. Licenced electricians then handle complete code-compliant installation and maintenance for long term reliability.
Where To Learn More: Consult additional home standby buying guides, manufacturer product specifications, and local dealer advice tailored to your property’s unique needs.
Decide Generator Viability: With all the information this guide provided on permanent standby generator systems, carefully consider costs, risks and benefits before choosing to upgrade your home’s backup capabilities. Installation quotes from reputable professionals in your area will clarify exact budgets and specifications to help finalize if now is the right time to invest.

Reliable electricity is an essential foundation of comfort and security for families. Standby home generators provide an added layer of outage protection many homeowners increasingly prioritize – especially amid aging utility infrastructure and worsening extreme weather threats.

Hopefully this detailed walkthrough gave you greater insight on finding the ideal solution to match your household’s budget and needs for automatic backup power. Reach out with any other questions as you explore options further!