Generator General Info
How to choose a residential generator
Residential generators come in a broad range of sizes to meet the diverse needs of home owners. But size is not the sole option that you’ll need to consider. Do you need a:
- Portable generator
- Stationary generator
- A gasoline or natural gas generator?
These choices are best reviewed together with a knowledgeable and reputable technician. RALCO, with its 25 years in business working with homeowners on their electrical needs, maintains a staff with the expertise to guide through all your choices.
What to expect
We’ll send one of our generator specialists to your home to conduct an assessment of your needs and to evaluate your site. You will have to take an active part in the evaluation process. We provide the options that fulfill our clients wishes.
Pros and Cons of generator options
Here are some guidelines to hlep you assess the pros and cons of generator options:
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Option
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Pros
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Cons
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Portable gasoline generator
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Lowest price.
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Short running time; needs gas tank refilled which may be a problem if you’re away from your home; usually lower power than stationary generators.
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Stationary (or standby automatic) generator
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Permanently hooked in to your house wiring and fuel source; operates efficiently; can supply a whole house; convenience of use.
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Costlier than portable generators.
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Automatic transfer switch
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Powers up automatically in event of a power failure, usually in 10-30 seconds.
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Gasoline portable generator
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Always available when stored on property
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Generator will need to be refueled frequently; fuel will need to be stored on site; generator will need to be turned off before refueling; no automatic start.
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Natural gas and propane
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Permanent hook-up ensures immediate start-up with automatic transfer switch. Natural gas generators are always stationary.
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Not available in all areas; may require higher pressure than currently provided to home;
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Your choice of fuel – gasoline, propane, natural gas – is best determined by the availability to your house. If you receive natural gas, then a hook up to that supply line is the most cost efficient and expedient choice. Your service provider will know to check for the required gas pressure and will advise you on suitability.
A common option is to select a bi-fuel generator – natural gas and propane - which gives the homeowner more flexibility. Diesel generators are the most efficient and maintenance free of all types, however they are the most costly option of all choices.
How to prepare for your generator evaluation
We’ve put together these steps to help you prepare for an evaluation of a generator suitable to meet your needs:
- Make a list of appliances/equipment you HAVE TO HAVE running during a power outage
- Make a list of the NICE TO HAVE appliances.
- Check the safety tags on your appliances, to put together your wattage requirements.