Benefits of Standby Generators for Your Home

Power outages are unpredictable, yet they always seem to happen at the worst possible time. A storm might knock out the power while you’re making dinner, or an unexpected grid failure could plunge you into darkness during an important Zoom call. Whatever the case, losing electricity disrupts your entire routine. That’s why you need a home standby generator to ensure that even when the power goes out, your lights stay on, your appliances keep running, and your home remains comfortable.

What Is a Standby Generator?

A standby generator is a permanently installed backup power system that automatically supplies electricity to your home when the main power source fails. Unlike portable generators that require setup and refueling each time you use them, a standby generator turns on automatically, making it a hassle-free solution for powering your household during an outage.

This appliance ties into your home’s electrical panel, so it’s connected to your lights, appliances, and other devices without having to fumble with extension cords. It also runs on your home’s natural gas line or a propane tank, meaning there’s no need to keep gasoline on hand or manually refuel the generator. In short, a standby generator is a set-it-and-forget-it solution for uninterrupted power.

How Do Standby Generators Work?

Standby generators operate through an automatic transfer switch, which constantly monitors the electrical supply entering your home. The moment it detects an outage, the generator starts up and begins supplying power, usually within seconds. Once the power grid comes back online, the transfer switch safely shifts the electrical load back to the grid, and the generator shuts off. This seamless transition ensures you barely notice a disruption.

What Are the Benefits of Standby Generators?

Installing a standby generator for your home provides peace of mind and practical advantages. Here’s why investing in one is a smart decision:

• Restore power automatically: Standby generators start up within seconds of a power outage, restoring electricity with no manual input. This means no searching for flashlights, no struggling to set up a portable generator in bad weather, and no interruption to your daily life.
• Keep essential appliances running: A home standby generator ensures that refrigerators, freezers, HVAC systems, and medical equipment continue functioning during an outage. This prevents food spoilage, maintains a comfortable indoor temperature, and provides reliable power for oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, and other medical devices.
• Provide whole-home or selective backup power: Choose whether you want to power your entire home or just critical circuits. Your installer will help you size your standby generator based on your needs and budget.
• Operate on a continuous fuel source: Unlike portable generators that require gasoline or diesel refills, most standby generators run on natural gas or propane. This means you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel during extended outages.
• Increase home value: Installing a home standby generator makes your property more attractive. Many homebuyers value having a backup power source, particularly in areas prone to severe weather or frequent power disruptions.
• Power your home security system: Outages can leave you vulnerable to break-ins if security cameras, alarms, and smart locks lose power. A standby generator keeps your security system operational, protecting your home even during an extended outage.
• Prevent frozen pipes: Losing heat during a winter power outage can lead to frozen and burst pipes. A standby generator keeps your furnace running to avoid damage and associated repairs.
• Maintain internet connectivity: With more people working from home, a power outage means lost productivity, missed deadlines, and disrupted meetings. A standby generator keeps your internet, computers, and other work-from-home essentials running without a hitch.
• Eliminate the hassle of manual setup: Unlike portable generators that require setup, refueling, and manual operation, a standby generator turns on and off automatically. This hands-free operation provides reliable backup power without extra work.
• Lower the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning: Portable generators must be placed outdoors and handled carefully to avoid CO gas buildup. Standby generators vent emissions properly from a safe, permanently installed location, reducing the risk of exposure.
• Offer long-term reliability: The best home standby generators deliver over a decade of dependable performance. With regular maintenance, these systems can operate for thousands of hours, powering your home through countless outages over the years.

Why Choose Seidel Electric Inc?

If you’re ready to install a home standby generator, maximize these benefits by partnering with Seidel Electric Inc. As a Certified Select Generac PowerPRO Dealer, we specialize in one of the world’s most reliable home standby generator brands. Choose from propane or natural gas-powered standby generators to fit your needs. Our family-owned business is known for our knowledgeable electricians, free in-home consultations, and exceptional customer service. Contact us today to schedule a generator installation estimate in the Tri-State Area.