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The Homeowner's Guide to Choosing a Generator

Vance Electric • April 12, 2021

Considering a generator but not sure how to pick one? Learn everything you need to know about choosing a generator in our homeowner's guide today.

Are you afraid of the day that your power goes out and you're left unprepared to deal with the power outage? Do you find peace of mind knowing that you're prepared for any situation nature throws at you?

If so, then you need help in choosing a generator. Investing in a home generator is the only way to ensure your family is protected during an outage without having to hit the panic button. They give you much-needed energy until the power comes back, however long that may take.

See below for an in-depth guide on how to find the right generator for your residential property today.

Find the Perfect Size

Put yourself in Goldilocks shoes for a moment. If she were searching for a generator to power her home, she'd be looking for something that's "just right."

If the generator is too small, then it won't power all of the appliances and functions of your house that you deem necessary. If it's too large, you're wasting money on a generator size that you don't need.

So... how do you pick the right size? Only you can answer that question! We'll provide you with the info, you use this insight to choose the right size for your generator needs. Here's a bit of information on each:

Recreational Generator: Offers up to 2,000 watts. Generally used for recreational activities such as camping, RVing, and the like. Has enough wattage to power a fridge, a few lights, one TV, a computer, and a charger for your phone.
Mid Sized Generator: Gives you up to 3,500 watts. Can power a refrigerator, home security system, phone charger, laptop, and up to 10 lights at a time. In place of some of those, it can also provide power for a small AC unit or space heater to control the climate.
Large Generator: Gives you up to 7,500 watts. You can power a plethora of things such as a home security system, up to 10 lights, laptop, phone charger, fridge, portable AC unit, furnace, and sump pump. It can also give you power for your electric stove and dishwasher.

At first, you might think the choice is a no-brainer. But remember, there's also the price to consider, and the price ranges vary by size and wattage. Let's cover that next...

Consider Your Budget

First off, let's consider this: choosing a generator is a long-term investment. Though you may not use it right away, it can be a life-saving benefit the next time you experience an emergency.

That said, you can find your dream home generator at a great price. Remember that the goal here isn't to find the lowest price, it's to find the highest return on your investment over time.

That means looking for the right size, a trusted brand, positive online reviews, high-quality generator installation/repair (like us!), and so on.

All of this should start with you creating a budget. This will offer you more accountability as you shop for the generator you want. Once you have a budget to follow, you'll be able to filter out options and make an educated choice on the legitimate options you have.

Make sure your budget is realistic. Once you know the size of the generator you want, do some research on how much they go for when new or used.

Increase the Durability of Your Generator

Did you know that a home generator can last up to 3,000 hours? That means you could run it for a collective 4 months without ever having to replace it.

That said, some generators only last 1,500 hours before dying out. What's the difference? The quality of installation and maintenance. Like all other investments, a generator should be repaired and maintained by a trained expert.

Be sure to take the time and find a trusted generator repair service near you. Doing so can help you extend the life of your generator and give you the highest ROI possible.

Anytime you see the signs of it wearing out, you can give them a call, such as:

Issues with the fuel or oil
Low coolant in the generator
Frequent overheating
Loud roaring or noises when the generator is in use
Frequent battery failure
Tripped circuits
Poor installation by the initial service you hired

Purchase a Standby Generator for Commercial Needs

If you're a residential property owner, then you might choose between a portable or standby generator. However, if you're a business owner, then the choice is clear!

There's too much at stake to not invest in a standby generator. One power outage can put your entire business operations behind, costing you revenue and clients.

Commercial standby generators are made with business owners in mind. They can produce up to 250kw. We offer either diesel or gaseous generators, depending on your budget and preference.

Not sure which one is right for you? We're happy to help. We'll help you find the perfect fit for your needs to ensure your company's future is protected without breaking the budget.

If you need even more power, we can also offer industrial commercial generators to ensure that your manufacturing and labor needs are met in the direst of situations.

Choosing a Generator: Find the Perfect Fit

Everyone's needs are different. Use this in-depth guide to help you when choosing a generator for your residential property.

Of course, commercial owners aren't the only ones that can benefit from a standby generator. Be sure to read this article for reasons that you might need a standby home generator.

We're happy to answer any questions. Be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we will be happy to assist you further.

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Storm Preparedness: Why Backup Power Is a Must-Have for Your Family

By Vanceelectric • March 18, 2025

According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, each of the twenty-seven weather disasters that occurred in 2024 cost more than one billion dollars . Part of the reason these storms are so expensive is that they can knock out power infrastructure, causing outages. That is why it is so essential to have home backup power . But where do you get this type of reliable power backup power? And what safety considerations should you take into account? This emergency power options guide will answer these questions to prepare you for the next storm. The Risks of Power Outages During Storms Power outages during storms create various challenges, many of which can severely impact families. Losing electricity disrupts everyday routines, affecting lighting, heating or cooling systems, and access to communication. This makes staying connected with emergency services, loved ones, and weather updates difficult, leaving families vulnerable during a crisis. Beyond daily inconveniences, power outages also pose significant health and safety risks. Without refrigeration, perishable food can spoil, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. A prolonged outage can become a medical emergency for individuals who rely on medical devices such as oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines. Additionally, extreme temperatures can make homes uninhabitable, leading to dangerous conditions, particularly for children, older people, and those with health concerns. The financial burden of power outages can also be substantial. A sudden power surge can damage expensive electronics and appliances, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Types of Backup Power Solutions Several types of home backup power solutions are available, each with unique benefits and considerations. Portable generators offer a cost-effective and flexible option capable of powering select appliances. However, they require manual setup, fuel storage, and proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. These generators are ideal for short-term power outages but require careful handling to ensure safety and efficiency. Learn more about in-stock generators . Standby residential power generators provide automatic power restoration during an outage for a more seamless solution. These units are permanently installed and typically run on natural gas or propane, eliminating the need for refueling. Standby generators can power an entire home and offer a reliable, long-term solution. However, they require professional installation and regular maintenance to maintain optimal working conditions. Read about professional generator installations and their benefits. Battery backup power systems provide another alternative, storing electricity during outages. While they are well-suited for short-term power needs, their effectiveness depends on battery capacity. For families looking for a sustainable and long-term solution, combining solar power with battery storage ensures electricity is available even during extended outages. Just make sure you are choosing the right generator . Choosing the Right Backup Power for Your Family Selecting the best backup power solution depends on various factors, including household power needs, budget, fuel availability, and ease of maintenance. Assessing power requirements is the first step in determining which appliances and systems must be operational during an outage. Understanding essential devices' wattage and energy consumption helps identify the appropriate generator size. Find the size generator you need to ensure your home is adequately powered. Budget is another critical consideration. Portable generators have a lower upfront cost but may require frequent refueling and maintenance. Standby generators involve a higher initial investment but provide automatic power restoration and long-term reliability. Battery backup systems and solar power solutions also have varying price points, with potential long-term savings on energy costs. Explore the complete guide to generator installation to make an informed decision. Fuel availability plays a crucial role in backup power planning. Portable generators often run on gasoline, which can be scarce during severe weather events. Standby natural gas or propane generators provide a more consistent fuel source. Battery-powered solutions eliminate the need for fuel but depend on stored energy capacity. Learn about the benefits of a Generac standby generator for a dependable energy source. Some generators require frequent servicing, while others offer automated operation with minimal intervention. Proper installation and routine maintenance ensure the system functions correctly when needed. Get essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your generator. Safety Considerations When Using Backup Power Backup power solutions provide security during power outages, but proper usage is essential to prevent safety hazards. Portable generators can produce carbon monoxide poisoning , which is a significant risk. Therefore, it is crucial to operate them outdoors, away from windows and doors. Homeowners should install carbon monoxide detectors to monitor indoor air quality and prevent exposure to this deadly gas. Electrical hazards are another concern when using backup power. Qualified professionals should always install generators to avoid the risk of electrical shocks, short circuits, or fire hazards. Proper grounding and adherence to local electrical codes ensure safe operation. Find out more about preparing your home for generator installation. Safe fuel storage and handling are also vital when using generators. Gasoline and propane should be stored in approved containers and kept away from living spaces. Spills should be cleaned immediately to reduce fire risks. Routine maintenance, including oil changes and component inspections, helps keep generators in peak condition and ready for emergency use. Learn more about generator repair and warranty services . Additional Storm Preparedness Tips Beyond the benefits of professional generator installation for backup power, families should take additional steps to prepare for storms. Create an emergency kit stocked with the following: Non-perishable food Water First-aid supplies Flashlights Extra batteries A battery-powered radio or alternative communication method helps families stay informed about storm developments and emergency updates. Developing a family emergency plan is also critical. Establishing communication protocols, designating meeting points, and outlining evacuation routes help ensure everyone knows their role during an emergency. Staying informed through weather forecasts and local emergency alerts provides valuable time to implement preparedness measures. Need Home Backup Power? Contact Vance Electric Investing in a reliable home backup power system is a crucial component of storm preparedness. It ensures your family's safety, comfort, and financial well-being during unforeseen power outages. Here at Vance Electric, we know how important it is to get an experienced installer for your backup needs. That is why we offer nearly three decades of experience. So, if you are ready for the electric help you need, contact us today.