Installing a Whole-Home Generator? Here’s What You Should Know

Keep Your Home Powered, Rain or Shine!

As homeowners increasingly seek reliable solutions for power continuity, whole-home generators have become essential in ensuring that daily life proceeds smoothly during outages.  Whether caused by natural disasters or utility issues, power interruptions are not uncommon in Coeur d’Alene, ID, and it can be a significant inconvenience at best and a risk to your family’s safety at worst. 

Luckily, a whole-home generator with an automatic transfer switch offers a seamless transition to backup power, keeping your essential appliances and systems running without interruption. Here’s what you should know about the installation of these powerful systems before diving into getting one.

SEE ALSO: Why Electrical Pre-Wire Is Key to Future-Proof Your Home

Planning and Preparation

Choosing the right generator starts with understanding your home’s energy needs. Our team can help you calculate your home's essential power requirements to determine the generator size that best fits your needs. Engaging a professional for a home energy audit and site survey can provide valuable insights and help prevent oversizing or undersizing your generator, both of which can be costly.

Choosing the Right Location

The location of your whole-home generator affects its performance and safety. It should be placed where it can be easily accessed for maintenance and far enough from living areas to minimize noise. Consideration should also be given to local zoning laws, which may dictate generator placement, and proximity to fuel supplies if using propane or diesel. Ventilation is another critical factor, as generators require adequate airflow to operate efficiently and safely.

Installation Process

Installing a whole-home generator is a complex process that involves electrical and possibly gas plumbing skills, making it essential to hire licensed professionals. The installation begins with preparing a concrete pad for the generator to sit on, followed by the setup of the fuel line and electrical connections, including the installation of the transfer switch. Professionals, such as the team at Summit Technology Group, will ensure all local codes and regulations are met during installation, securing necessary permits in the process.

Fuel Source and Storage

You can choose from several fuel sources for whole-home generators, including natural gas, propane, and diesel. Natural gas offers convenience if available, as it hooks directly into the utility supply. Propane and diesel, meanwhile, require proper storage tanks, which must be installed according to safety regulations.

Maintenance and Safety Tips

Routine maintenance is crucial for the longevity and efficiency of your generator. This includes regular oil changes, battery checks, and checking that the component parts are in good working order. Plus, these technologies should be installed away from windows and vents to prevent exhaust gases from entering the home.

Cost Considerations and ROI

While the initial investment for a whole-home generator can be significant, the long-term benefits definitely justify the cost. These include not only the convenience and safety during outages but also the potential increase in property value. Additionally, you may find that some insurance companies offer premium discounts for homes equipped with standby generators, as it enhances the safety of your family and assets.

If you're considering a whole-home generator, we recommend consulting with the experts at Summit Technology Group. Contact us today to learn more about our custom generator solutions and how we can help you keep your home powered and protected no matter what.