Buying a generator can be complicated if you don’t know what you’re looking for, and you run the risk of getting a system that won’t do what you need it to do. Different types of emergency power generators work for different things. With a little research and answers to a couple of questions, you can simplify the process. 

Know What Each Generator’s Power is Good For

Although all generators ultimately do the same thing – they create power and can be used in situations where backup electricity systems are necessary – not all generators safely and efficiently power the same items. It also helps to know how they work.

• Home standby generators: These permanently installed systems do weekly self-tests and almost immediately begin to supply power when an outage occurs. This type of unit is good for an entire house, or may be set up to power only specific circuits. It typically has an automatic transfer switch that will transfer power to your home when needed. 
• Portable generators: These have a limited run time, based on the available fuel supply (usually unleaded gasoline). These are popular at work sites where power tools are used, and for recreational activities. It is best to use these outdoors so that you reduce the potential of carbon monoxide poisoning. These put out less power than a home standby generator, because most are much smaller.
• Inverter generators:  These are best for recreational activities or use by small businesses that need a little extra power.   An inverter generator may be paired with an identical generator to boost the power output. There are instances where using a standard generator to run specific items, like a computer or other sensitive equipment , may not be the best idea. You’ll want to get a generator that has automatic voltage regulation (AVR), or use an inverter generator for sensitive items.  This type of generator converts AC power to DC power and smooths it out, then invert to AC power that is more stable and safer for sensitive equipment.

Understand the Fueling Needs for Each Style

Depending on the type of generator you’re interested in, you’ll need to understand how each is fueled. Home standby generators are typically powered by natural gas or diesel, while portable generators can be powered by natural gas, propane, diesel, or unleaded gasoline.   

Portable generators need refueling with use, because their fuel tanks are smaller, ranging in size from six gallons to 16 gallons. Home standby generators may be connected to the home’s natural gas supply, or may be powered by diesel.

Know How Much Power You Need

You’ll want to calculate your energy requirements and look for a generator that can handle double the amount of power that you need. Here’s how to calculate your energy requirements:

Decide what you want to run with the generator, and how much power those demand. Make a list of the different appliances you’re interested in and find out how many watts of electricity each require.  Then your best bet is to multiply that by 1.5 or even 2.

Alternatively, you can use a calculator like the ones that are  available on big name generator company sites (like Generac for example).

Decide How You Want To Connect 

Different types and sizes of generators connect to appliances and items that you’re looking to power in different ways. 

A permanent backup generator is connected directly to the electrical panel in a home, and is the simplest to operate, because it just kicks on when needed. 

It’s not so simple with a portable generator, no matter the size of the unit. Depending on the size and power of the unit, they connect to provide power in a home differently. For example, a medium sized portable generator of 1,000 to 5,000 watts connects with extension cords. The cords go directly from the generator to the specific appliance that you’re trying to power. 

A large generator, which can power several rooms with its 6,000 to 8,000 watts of power, can connect in two ways. It can connect using either extension cords that go to the appliances, or it can connect to a transfer switch that directs the power to specific units and areas. The extra large portable generator with 10,000 watts of power and beyond can power an entire small home.  It does so by connecting via transfer switch.

As you’ve made all of these decisions, you’ve likely been looking at the different machine options and exploring the types of generators available. Now you’ll just have to make your decision and find the right dealer to purchase your new generator.

Call Integra Electrical Today For An Estimate

So whether you’re building a new home or looking to add a generator to your emergency kit, there are many considerations in deciding if you are going to move forward with investing in a generator. For a business owner running computer systems or electric tools, a generator is an investment that can help employees get more done. For homeowners, the investment into a generator (whether a permanent standby model or a portable unit) might just pay off by preventing expensive home damage and loss that could result from a power outage.

If are unsure of which generator model is right for your home or business, just give us a call. Integra Electrical specializes in the installation of automatic generators throughout the Des Moines area, providing Iowa home and business owners with a safe source of electricity they can rely on when the power goes out. We also offer flexible financing options subject to credit approval! We’ll help you through the whole process and get you a unit that fits both your needs and your budget. Call today and see why local homeowners trust their electrical systems to Integra!

Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page.

By zach@admachines.com

8 Benefits of Investing in a Generator 

Thinking about investing in a generator for your home or business? Even when you’re notified in advance, there is nothing more annoying and inconvenient than a power outage. Lost work time, spoiled food loss of heating and cooling, etc. Although initial costs can be high, there are major benefits to investing in a generator for your home or business. In addition to giving you peace of mind that you will be able to keep your lights on and charge your devices when the power goes out, you can also save money by preventing your food from spoiling and guaranteeing that your major digital systems will not face disruption. Consider the following points as you decide weather or not you are ready to expend the money on installation.

• Standby generators kick within seconds of a power outage. Your neighbors could be waiting hours, days or even longer for the utility company to restore the power, but your electricity will be back on in seconds. Generators often time warm up and start generating power within 10 to 20 seconds.
• When power comes back on, the transition will be smooth. Standby generators help to smooth the transition from generator power back to utility-generated power. These units typically run for a few minutes after the utility company gets the electricity back up and running, to ensure that the power is indeed stable enough to power your home. Once the motor has cooled a bit and the demand for power has transitioned to the utility lines, the generator shuts itself off.
• You can charge your devices and use them with Wi-Fi. So many people have digital devices that they use to communicate with others as well as entertain themselves. You will be able to re-charge your phones, laptops, tablets, etc. if their batteries die before the power is restored. No need to rely on charging them to full capacity in advance! Your internet router will also remain functional, so you won’t have to worry about using all your monthly data while scrolling.
• There will be little to no disruption in your daily routine. Not only will you be able to watch TV and listen to music, but you will be able to use your electric stovetop and have hot water for bathing and other usage. With a standby generator, you likely won’t even have to get up out of your seat to get the power back on. They kick on automatically, so no dragging out a portable generator or searching for extension cords.
• There will be no lapse in security camera coverage. With a standby generator, the security of your business or commercial property will not be compromised due to a lack of connectivity or or functioning cameras. Your backup power source will kick on so quickly that there may be no pause in the recording at all.
• Prevent food loss from spoiling. Individuals and families can spend hundreds of dollars a month on food that is kept in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent them from going bad. When the power goes out for a period of more than a few hours, food get warm or thaw out completely, exposing it to harmful bacteria that thrives without the protection of refrigeration. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends discarding any perishable foods that have gone without refrigeration for more than 4 hours.
• Generators keep sump pumps working properly. If you have a sump pump in your basement to prevent flooding, you may have to worry about potential flooding issues from a power loss, especially if the loss of power was brought upon by a storm. A generator keeps the sump pump running, which could mean less damage from whatever weather conditions knocked out the power grid.
• You never know when you need backup power.  There are many reasons that the power might go out. From severe weather to natural disasters, auto accidents damaging electrical poles, even rodents gnawing on connection wires, no one can predict with certainty when there might be a power outage and how long it will last.

For help selecting and installing the backup generator that is right for you, call us today at 515-361-7443. We offer financing options upon credit approval.

Call Integra Electrical Today For An Estimate

So whether you’re building a new home or looking to add a generator to your emergency kit, there are many considerations in deciding if you are going to move forward with investing in a generator. For a business owner running computer systems or electric tools, a generator is an investment that can help employees get more done. For homeowners, the investment into a generator (whether a permanent standby model or a portable unit) might just pay off by preventing expensive home damage and loss that could result from a power outage.

If are unsure of which generator model is right for your home or business, just give us a call. Integra Electrical specializes in the installation of automatic generators throughout the Des Moines area, providing Iowa home and business owners with a safe source of electricity they can rely on when the power goes out. We also offer flexible financing options subject to credit approval! We’ll help you through the whole process and get you a unit that fits both your needs and your budget. Call today and see why local homeowners trust their electrical systems to Integra!

Please check with lender for up-to-date terms, conditions and eligibility requirements. Information on this page is subject to change. Integra Electrical is not responsible for the terms and conditions of third party lenders, or the accuracy of this page.

By zach@admachines.com