Considering a whole-house backup generator can cost several thousand dollars, it’s understandable why you would want to take time to decide if it’s right for you before rushing to buy one. It may be worthwhile, depending on your location, especially if you reside in an area prone to extreme temperatures and/or power outages. Let’s discuss some of the benefits of installing a whole-house generator so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your home and budget.
1. Reliable Power
One of the biggest benefits of getting a whole-home generator is that it can provide you with reliable power during an outage, even if the rest of the neighborhood is without working electricity. This is particularly important during the summer or winter. Being without proper heating or cooling isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also be downright dangerous, especially if you have existing health conditions.
2. Automatic Starting
A whole-home generator will automatically kick on without requiring manual intervention. This is a massive benefit as it is, but it’s even more so if you have pets and/or senior family members who are home by themselves. They’re particularly sensitive to the heat and cold, and they need to be in a temperature-controlled environment. You can rest assured that any pets or humans in the home will remain at a comfortable temperature once the whole-house generator automatically kicks in.
3. Keeps Important Appliances Running
If you don’t have a whole-house generator, certain appliances may shut off during a power outage. For instance, if you have an electric water heater and the power goes out, you won’t have access to hot water until the power is restored. Since a whole-house generator goes on automatically, you won’t have to worry about your appliances not working.
4. Prevents Food Spoilage
When the power goes out, many homeowners, understandably, panic about the food going bad in their refrigerators and freezers. People who shop in bulk will usually be incredibly concerned as stocking up may result in spending hundreds of dollars only to watch what they bought slowly go bad the longer it goes without proper freezing or refrigeration.
Several factors are involved in determining whether to toss or keep food. Unfortunately, if it’s been more than a couple of hours and the temperatures are 40 degrees Fahrenheit or more, much of your food will likely end up in the trash. You won’t have to worry about that with a whole-house generator. It will keep your refrigerator and freezer running. This not only prevents you from having to throw out most or all of the food, but it also saves you from spending a significant amount of money to replace it.
5. Saves Money in the Long Run
Yes, whole-house generators have a high up-front cost investment. However, they may ultimately save you money in the long term, especially if you live in an area prone to frequent and prolonged blackouts. Estimate the costs of expenses you typically incur, such as for food that goes to waste or the cost of staying in a hotel until your power is restored. These expenses, even if you’re partially reimbursed for them, could add up significantly over a year during long-lasting and/or frequent power outages. Over time, they could end up costing more than the generator itself.
6. Prevents Medications From Going Bad
Another significant concern homeowners face during a power outage is that their medications will spoil. Medicines already need to be stored in a temperature-controlled environment, but some require refrigeration to remain safe for use. This pertains to both human and animal medications.
If you have medicines in your refrigerator, they can quickly go bad during a power outage. A whole-house generator will keep the power going, so you won’t have to deal with the hassle of begging your doctor or pharmacist for a replacement if the electricity goes out for a long time.
7. Keeps Medical Equipment Running
In addition to making sure medications remain fresh and usable, many homeowners are concerned about maintaining the functionality of medical equipment during a power outage. Some equipment may be able to run on batteries for a short time, but this can still be problematic in the event of a long-lasting power outage. Mobility aids, ventilators, and home dialysis machines are just a few items that require charging or continuous power at all times. Whole-house generators ensure there’s no disruption or risk to safety for those who use at-home medical equipment.
8. Increases Property Value
Considering the numerous benefits of whole-house generators, it’s understandable why many prospective homebuyers would be willing to pay more for a house that already has one installed. Yes, they could put one in themselves, but some prefer to pay for the convenience of moving right into a house without having to worry about taking on home projects.
This may particularly be the case if the appliance was installed within the past several years. A generator usually has a life span of 20 to 30 years, so depending on when it was installed, it has the potential to last many more years when it’s maintained well.
9. Comfort
Anyone who has ever had to remain in place during a power outage, rather than being able to relocate to another house or a hotel, understands how much it can disrupt daily routines. A whole-house generator helps maintain your comfort regardless of the outdoor weather conditions. It will keep your electric water heater, freezer, refrigerator, and even washer and dryer running without a problem. You’ll even be able to watch TV. This comfort and convenience can be invaluable, especially for homes with elderly or young residents, or those with certain health conditions.
10. Peace of Mind
In certain circumstances, a power outage can be fun, such as if you love reading a book by candlelight. However, it can become problematic the longer your home remains without power. A whole-house generator provides peace of mind, knowing that even if you can’t leave your home, you can still be safe and comfortable until the power goes back on.
How Much Is a Whole-Home Generator?
The cost of a whole-house generator can vary significantly, but you should expect to pay thousands of dollars, including for the labor, installation, and appliance itself. Its actual price depends on several factors, including its brand, features, and size.
How Do I Choose a Whole-House Generator?
Our company has been operating for over 20 years, assisting clients with a wide range of electrical projects, including installations. We make it easy for you to find the whole-home generator that suits your budget, preferences, and power needs. We’ll assess your home, discuss your situation and budget, and then make recommendations based on our findings.
Don’t struggle your way through a power outage. Mackey Services in Dickinson, TX, can install a whole-house generator, keeping you comfortable no matter what the temperatures are outdoors. Contact us today for more information about how we can install a generator at your home.
