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Automatic standby generators provide seamless, consistent electrical power with no need for someone to be home all the time, no extension cords and no power spikes. It is also the most expensive route, ranging from $5,000 to $9,200 depending on the size of the home. Units exist that cool, lubricate and test themselves every week and indicate if there is a problem, so there are no surprises when the power goes out.
Options in full-house generators range from smaller 8-kilowatt units that allow homeowners to run the basics such as core lighting, a furnace or air conditioner and refrigerator, depending on the size of the home, to 20-kilowatt units that run every circuit in most homes. There are 150-kilowatt and megawatt units that are used for hospitals and large complexes.
Automatic standby generators can run on propane gas with 500-gallon propane tanks that last for four to five days. Many municipalities allow homeowners to bury the tanks underground for aesthetics.
It could take several days for installation of automatic standby generators to be completed by licensed electricians working in conjunction with a plumber or pipefitter who installs the propane line. Once the township inspects and approves the completed job, homeowners are orientated on the operation of the unit.
Proper maintenance of all generators is imperative. Annual contracts can be purchased to ensure that the unit functions properly.
Due to delays in acquiring permits and subsequent inspections from townships that may be overwhelmed with such requests, it can be a two- to three-month wait for a full-house generator installation.
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