How to Select the Right Generator for Your Home

With so many home generator options on the market today, it can be overwhelming to try and find just the right system for your house. It’s important to buy a generator that suits your home’s size, your power needs, and your budget. With the right guidance, you can choose a great generator that will provide all that you need.

In this article, we’ll discuss generator options, key considerations before making a purchase, types of generators, and more. Let’s dive into the steps you need to take to select the perfect generator for your home!

What Is the Right Size Generator for Your Home?

Generators come in a variety of sizes, so it’s vital to know the right size for your needs. A generator installer will know how to calculate generator size for your home, but here are a few tips that can guide you:

• Calculate your wattage needs by considering all the major appliances and systems you have in your home.
• Consider which systems you can’t live without during an outage and which ones you don’t need to run.
• Be sure to choose a generator that offers a bit more power than you’ll likely need.

Choosing the right generator size can be tough to do on your own, so always consult a professional before making a purchase.

Types of Generators to Consider

There are many different types of home generators on the market. Here’s a breakdown of the most common ones:

• Standby generators: A standby generator is wired into your home’s electrical panel and delivers all the electricity you need to power up your entire home.
• Portable generators: As the name implies, portable generators can be used and moved anywhere as needed, although they typically can’t provide electricity for every part of a home.
• Inverter generators: More economical and efficient, inverter generators are great at load management and operate only as needed.

When you need power for everything in your home, a standby unit is the best option. If you want flexibility and power for your home, campsite, or worksite, a portable generator can be a good choice. If you want efficiency, inverter generators are best.

What Are Your Power Needs?

Think about your electricity needs before choosing your home generator.

It’s crucial to know how much wattage your home’s major appliances use regularly. Some calculators can help you determine the overall wattage needed to power your refrigerator, HVAC system, range, and more.

Think about critical appliances in your home. Will you need every system running during an outage? What can you live without?

Calculating your home power needs can guide you to the right generator wattage and unit. Consult an expert before making any final decision on a home generator.

What Is Your Home Generator Budget?

Home generator costs can be a major factor when shopping. It’s important to find affordable home generators that are within your budget but are also reliable and safe.

Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a home generator. This can help determine your choices and provide you with a short list of options.

Consider upfront costs compared to long-term costs. Some units may cost more but work more efficiently, saving money in the long run.

When shopping for a home generator, consider installation, maintenance, repairs, and warranty options. These can affect your budget and purchase decisions.

A good generator installer will provide a free estimate on installation and upfront pricing on their products. You can trust Generator Services, Inc. for all of the above.

Schedule Home Generator Installation in Columbia, SC

After serving Columbia and the surrounding area for 30+ years, we’ve learned how to take on all types of generator projects. From repairs and replacements to installations and maintenance, our team can provide you with everything you need to keep the lights on. Count on our licensed and insured technicians for upfront pricing, financing options, and service for all brands of generators.

If you need help selecting the right generator for your home, contact GSI now for expert recommendations and installation.