The Pros and Cons of Installing a Home Backup Generator

Power outages can be a major inconvenience for homeowners, especially during extreme weather conditions. This is where a backup generator comes in - it can provide a reliable source of electricity to your home during a power outage. However, like any major home improvement project, there are pros and cons to consider before installing a backup generator with one of our full-service electrical contractors.

Pros of Installing a Home Backup Generator

1. Provides a Reliable Source of Electricity During Power Outages: A backup generator can provide your home with uninterrupted power during an outage, ensuring that your home's critical systems (such as your refrigerator, air conditioner, heating system, and security system) continue to function as they should.
2. Increases Home Value: Hiring a full-service electrical contractor to install a backup generator can add value to your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers. It can also give you a competitive edge when it comes time to sell your home.
3. Protects Your Home: When the power goes out, your home is vulnerable to a range of potential hazards, including flooding, freezing pipes, and security breaches. A backup generator can help prevent these issues by keeping your home's critical systems running smoothly.
4. Ensures Business Continuity: If you work from home or run a home-based business, a backup generator can help ensure that you can continue to operate your business even during a power outage.

Cons of Installing a Home Backup Generator

1. High Upfront Cost: Backup generators can be expensive to purchase and install. The cost can vary depending on the size of the generator and the installation requirements, but it's important to budget for this significant expense. Contact Wire Me Electric to discuss our pricing for one of our full-service electrical contractors to install.
2. Can Be Noisy: Backup generators can be loud when they're running, which can be a nuisance for homeowners and their neighbors. However, noise is only emitted in the event of a power outage.
3. Limited Fuel Supply: Most backup generators run on gasoline, propane, or diesel fuel. If you don't have a sufficient supply of fuel on hand during a power outage, your generator may not be able to run for an extended period of time.

How to Decide if a Backup Generator is Right for Your Home

If you're considering installing a backup generator for your home, it's important to carefully weigh the factors before making a decision. Here are some to consider:

1. Your Location: If you live in an area that is prone to power outages, a backup generator may be a worthwhile investment. This is especially true if you live in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions (such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or blizzards). Winter in the Lake Tahoe area can be especially vulnerable to harsh winters accompanied by tremendous amounts of snow. In the event of a power outage, Lake Tahoe homes would greatly benefit from the added security of a backup generator to keep your heater running.
2. Your Home's Other Critical Systems: Consider the critical systems in your home that require electricity, such as your heating as stated previously, cooling system, refrigerator, and security system. If these systems are essential to your safety and well-being, a backup generator with one of our full-service electrical contractors may be a good investment.
3. Your Budget: Backup generators can be expensive to purchase and install, so it's important to consider your budget before making a decision. Be sure to factor in the cost of installation, fuel, and maintenance when estimating the total cost of the generator.
4. Your Future Plans: If you plan on selling your home in the future, a backup generator may be a good investment as it can add value to your home. However, if you don't plan on staying in your home for an extended period of time, it may not be a worthwhile investment.

 Get In Touch - Wire Me Electric

Don't let a power outage catch you off guard – contact Wire Me Electric today to learn more about our residential electrical services. Let us help you prepare for emergencies with a home backup generator and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is protected.