Looking to stay powered when the grid is struggling? If so, you may be wondering if it’s worth investing in a whole-home generator. Especially considering Colorado’s increase in downed power grids due to storms and wildfires.
From cost to size and the qualifications of your installer, there’s a lot to examine when choosing the right whole-home generator. The “best” one will vary on your unique circumstances and preferences. So, to help you narrow down your options, let’s review the following:
- The cons of portable generators
- Key benefits of whole-home generators
- Whole-home generator fuel types
- Why choosing the right installer makes all the difference
Get Expert Whole-Home Generator Advice From Cooper Heating and Cooling.
If you’d rather speak with a trusted Colorado electrician, contact Cooper Heating and Cooling. We’ll schedule a free, no-obligation in-home generator installation estimate. One of our friendly and knowledgeable professionals will review your home’s size, electrical panel, and energy needs and then help you find the right options for your budget and comfort.
The Cons of Portable Generators
The idea of powering your home with a portable generator may sound appealing with the lower up-front costs. Still, there are several drawbacks to this option that support making the higher investment in a whole-home generator.
For example:
- Portable units have limited capacity, forcing you to prioritize your electrical needs
- A portable generator will need to be connected and manually started, leaving your home vulnerable when you are away
- Portable generators lack permanent fuel connections, requiring manual connection when needed and possible storage of additional fuel
- A portable generator can be removed from the property, potentially putting you at risk of thieves when they are in short supply
If a sudden storm causes a power outage, the last thing you want to worry about is dragging a portable unit out from storage and trying to connect it while being pummeled by the elements. A whole-home generator allows you to remain in your home with minimal disruption until the power company fixes the issue.
Key Benefits of Whole-Home Generators
One of the major hold-ups to installing a whole-home generator is cost. You’ve got the purchase price, time and labor, potential upgrades to your electrical panel, a concrete or gravel pad, and other factors that will increase your total expenses. If you’re still on the fence about investing in one, let’s explore the key benefits of whole-home generators.
Stay Warm and Comfortable During Power Outages
Planned power outages (such as rolling blackouts) allow you to prepare in advance, but most outages happen without warning. If the weather turns ugly and leads to an outage in your area, a whole-home generator will turn on automatically. Harnessing a transfer switch that’s connected to your home’s electrical panel, you won’t even have to think twice about using power.
Remain Able to WFH With Internet Connectivity
With more and more of us working from home, power outages are particularly disruptive if it means you can’t get your work done. Gain peace of mind knowing that your Internet and computer will stay running, rain or shine. When 5 o’clock rolls around, you’ll also enjoy being able to relax with your usual TV streaming. Second to being without heat or AC, there’s nothing worse than boredom during a power outage!
Save Money on Appliance Repairs and Replacements
Having a standby whole-home generator can also help you save money on appliance repairs and replacements. Keeping your home warm through a winter power outage prevents water lines and pipes from freezing, ensuring there isn’t water heater damage from the expanding ice. It also ensures your refrigerator and freezer continue to run during a summer outage, keeping your food from spoiling and ruining your interiors. Power surge options can also defend your electric appliances from the damage caused by the major fluctuations that can happen at the beginning and end of an outage.
Keep Any Medical Equipment Running Smoothly
Enjoy the security of knowing any medical equipment will continue running smoothly. Electric-run home medical equipment is often critical for survival, so a power outage can be serious if safeguards aren’t in place. A whole-home generator will eliminate major disruptions so your loved ones who depend on these devices will be secure.
Whole-Home Generator Fuel Types
Whole-home generators offer the convenience of running off a variety of fuel types, including natural gas, propane, gasoline, or dual options that allow for more than one.
Natural gas is a popular option since it’s cost-effective, runs cleanly, and ties directly into your city’s main supply line. If your home is already connected to natural gas, this option offers the most convenience and ensures you never have to worry about running out of fuel.
Propane requires a separate storage tank and has the benefit of a long shelf-life for a fuel type. Propane deliveries can be made directly to your home, but you will need to keep an eye on fuel levels to make sure you don’t get caught empty when you need it.
Depending on oil prices, gasoline is one of the cheapest options but must be stored and cycled to ensure it doesn’t go past its shelf life. This also must be stored onsite, and some areas offer delivery services that come to your home.
Choosing a dual-fuel option is a good idea to offer flexibility when budgeting and availability can cause potential issues. This allows you to switch between fuel types as needed.
Why Choosing the Right Installer Makes All the Difference
Whole-home generators come in a wide range of sizes, depending on your energy needs. Pricing varies greatly, too, ranging anywhere from $10,000 to upwards of $50,000. With such a huge cost difference, it’s crucial to receive the trusted guidance of a trained professional. During an in-home estimate, they will carefully assess your home’s size and setup and then share their honest recommendations, including which brands outperform in longevity and service calls.
As we mentioned above, the “best” whole-home generator is the one that’s right for you, your home, and your budget. Whether you’re still on the fence about a portable unit, you’re unsure which fuel option is best, or you need help finding the right size or brand for your budget, trust the Cooper Heating and Cooling professionals for expert advice and a safe, top-notch installation.
Still Need Some Help? Trust Cooper Heating & Cooling’s Whole-Home Generator Experts.
As a full-service contractor with more than 40 years of experience, the knowledgeable pros at Cooper Heating and Cooling will help you find the right generator for your home and budget. And with a 100% satisfaction guarantee on our installs and a one-year renewable labor warranty, you can trust we’ll handle the job like it’s for our own home. In fact, this quality of care is just one of many reasons why we’ve earned thousands of five-star reviews.
Contact us today to talk about your whole-home generator needs. We offer fast and convenient scheduling, and estimates are always free!
