More frequent, longer-lasting power outages are the result of an increase in severe storms and an aging power grid. Whole-house backup or standby generators provide homeowners with a way to keep their homes comfortable and safe during prolonged power outages. The entire process is fully automatic and takes approximately ten seconds for the generator to turn on after the power goes out.

If you have lived through an extended power outage you understand how bleak and challenging it can be. Food spoils, mold grows, and basements that are prone to flooding take on water as sump pumps don't operate. During the winter a prolonged power outage causes bitter cold indoor temperatures, frozen pipes, and more. Whole-house standby generators can be a lifesaver for babies and the elderly.

Why a Whole-House Generator?

Whole-house backup generators enable you and your family to enjoy everyday essentials like heating, air conditioning, water (if you're on a well), refrigeration, lighting, and electronics. Today whole-house generators are:

• Quieter
• More reliable
• Start automatically when the power goes out and turn off when power is restored
• Offer higher power levels than portable generators

While the initial cost of a whole-house generator is more than a portable generator, it increases the value of your home and is very convenient. You don't even have to be home for your whole-house generator to switch on and off automatically as required by the power outage.

Fuels

Most residential whole-house generators run on natural gas or propane. If natural gas is available, it is important to confirm that the pressure is compatible with your generator's requirements. If your generator requires more pressure, your utility company can install a larger gas meter for your home. If propane will be the fuel source, an underground tank can keep your propane supply out of sight.

Next Steps

Determine the size you need. The first step is to decide which appliances, lighting, and electronics you want to maintain during a power outage. This will enable your generator installer to calculate the total power requirements of the circuits associated with the desired components you want to continue to run and recommend a generator that can maintain the proper wattage and meet your specific needs. Remember that larger appliances, such as refrigerators, have higher start-up wattage than running wattage. This needs to be factored into the total amount of power needed. If you live in a larger-than-average home or want to maintain high-powered electrical appliances, you will need a larger generator.

Determine the amperage size of your main electrical panel. Your generator installer can determine this for you.

Decide on a location. It is best to install your whole-house generator where there is easy access to your electric and fuel supply and also where you will minimize the risk of any exhaust fumes entering your home. Factor in noise for you and your neighbors when selecting your location. Generators are quieter than they used to be but they still create some noise.

Select the automatic transfer switch (ATS) style that suits your needs. There are two options available when choosing an ATS—a whole-house ATS or partial-house ATS. In addition, a load control module (LCM), which is a load management device, is available. An LCM lets you prioritize what you power during an outage. Although your entire house is connected to generator power—the LCM cycles some circuits on and off to prevent overloading. It helps your generator balance high electrical loads.

Determine if you need a sensitive new-age generator. Generator power is not utility grade power. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) is important if your whole-house generator will power electronic items like plasma TVs, computers, and HVAC systems with intricate controls. These items can be negatively affected by high THD levels. If your generator will power sensitive electronic devices, it is best to choose one with a THD of five or six percent or less.

Choose the "exercise" time for your generator. Whole-house generators need to run for a short period of time on a regular schedule. This routine "exercise" mode ensures your generator will provide immediate power during an outage. To reduce the effect this has on the peace and quiet of your home, you can select the time of day that your generator will perform this "exercise" function.

Smart Features Available

Today's smart home can add the generator to the list of Internet-ready devices. Kohler's new whole-house generator models have Ethernet ports to bring your generator online. Used in conjunction with Kohler's OnCue Home Generator Management System software, an email or text message is sent to the homeowner when the generator comes on. When you are on vacation, you can access your generator online to run diagnostics and ensure that your generator is prepared for a storm or outage that is forecast.

A licensed generator installation expert is your best resource to assess your specific needs and help you choose the whole-house standby generator that meets your needs and budget. Appleton Campbell is available to answer any questions you may have.

Mike Appleton is President of Appleton Campbell, a local, family owned heating, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical services business. Appleton Campbell is an authorized Kohler dealer and has extensive experience installing and servicing whole-house standby generators. Appleton Campbell has been providing customers throughout the Greater Piedmont Region and Northern Virginia with honesty, integrity, and experience since 1976. Contact Appleton Campbell at 540.347.0765 or at appletoncampbell.com.