The Comprehensive Guide to Home Generators in Austin, Texas

It is no secret that Texas can often experience harsh weather, with Austin being no exception. One of the best ways to prepare for power outages of any length is to own a home generator. Home generators are reliable, efficient, and cost effective. They can provide much needed piece of mind to any property owner living in Austin, Texas.

This comprehensive guide is designed to help prepare you for making an educated decision about the type and size of generator you should purchase for your home. We will cover the different types of generators, the cost of purchasing and maintaining a generator, and the essential safety measures for owning and using a generator.

Types of Home Generators

When thinking about purchasing a home generator, it is important to understand the two main types of generators available. The differences between stand-by generators, and portable generators can determine what kind of generator is most effective for your needs.

Stand-By Generators

Stand-by generators are powered by natural gas, diesel, or propane. They are heavy duty generators and usually feature automatic transfer switches that are responsible for automatically transferring from a main power source to the generator's power. Stand-by generators are often larger than portable generators and produce more energy. They are installed permanently, and can last for months without requiring maintenance.

Portable Generators

Portable generators are powered by gas, and are portable. These are smaller in size and contain smaller engines. They are often cheaper to purchase and maintain compared to stand-by generators, and they are not difficult to move around as the need arises. The only downside to portable generators is that they have to be manually switched when shifting from a primary power source to the generator's power.

Generator Cost

Home generators come in several sizes, which is reflected in the cost of the generator. Generally, a generator for a home costs $3000 on average. Depending on how much power you need, a generator can cost anywhere form $1500 to $10,000 or more.

Installation of a home generator is not something that should be done on your own, and should be done by a certified electrician. It is important to research certified electricians as some may charge differing fees for installation. Typically installation of a home generator will cost around $1000.

In addition to the cost of purchasing the generator, it is important to factor in the cost of maintenance. Maintaining your generator is important due to the fact that it will rarely be used until an emergency situation arises. Regular maintenance and check-ups for home generators are typically inexpensive, with the cost dependent on the type and size of the generator, and can range from $200 to $500. This is generally a one-time cost.

Generator Safety

It is essential that you use your generator safely to avoid any hazards. Before installing or using a generator, research the manufacturer's guideline to ensure proper installation and use. This includes making sure to never plug a generator into a wall outlet, as it can cause the transfer of power between the generator and the main power source. Generators should be placed on a leveled surface in a well-ventilated area with the correct amount of fuel supply.

When using a generator always make sure to observe the manufacturer's maximum wattage for a single device, as it can cause overloading and lead to damages. Before and after each use, you should switch off a home generator and let it cool for at least 10 minutes. Only use the correct type of fuel for the generator, and always make sure to store the fuel in a labeled airtight container and away from any heat source.

Summary

In summary, having a home generator is a great asset for protecting your house against power outages and other disasters in Texas. Generators come in many shapes and sizes and the type, size and cost make it important to research and plan carefully in order to make the best choice for you and your home. Additionally, it is important to consider the cost of installation and maintenance along with safety measures for proper use and storage.

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