The Secret to Surviving a Power Outage: Spoiler Alert, It’s Not Candles (It’s a Standby Generator)

A power outage can occur anytime from severe weather, equipment failure, or power grid maintenance, and it’s a huge inconvenience for everyone. Especially for houses and families that rely on electricity to power medical equipment, security systems, or heating and cooling. And wouldn’t you love to charge your phone, make a cup of coffee or keep your food from spoiling during a blackout? That’s where standby generators come in.

A standby generator is a backup electrical system that automatically turns on when it detects a power outage. You can say goodbye to the hassle of setting up a portable generator with a trusty generator installed right at your home. But what are the benefits of installing a standby generator, and are there any drawbacks to consider? Let’s find out!

Benefits of a Standby Generator

Let’s face it, nothing screams “lucky duck” like having a backup power source. Your friends, family, and neighbors will be impressed by your preparedness, and who knows, maybe it will even increase your chances of getting invited to the cool kids’ table. Here are some of the key benefits of having a standby generator:

1. Continuous Power Supply – During an outage, your standby generator provides a continuous power supply to your entire home. That means you can keep the lights on, run appliances, and keep important systems, like heating and cooling, running. You can continue your daily activities with no interruptions or disruptions.
2. Convenience – Unlike a portable generator that requires manual setup and fueling, standby generators are permanently installed and connected to natural gas or propane and your home’s electrical system. This means they’re always ready to provide power. No more running outside during a storm to start up or refuel a generator!
3. Increased Home Value – As power outages become more frequent and severe due to changes in the weather and a general strain on our electrical grid with things like home automation systems and car chargers, homebuyers are increasingly looking for homes with backup power sources. Installing a standby generator can make your home more attractive to buyers and help you sell quickly when the time comes.
4. Peace of Mind – Installing a standby generator will provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your family are safe and comfortable during an outage. If you have a security system, you can continue your day-to-day activities knowing that that system will continue to operate, keeping your property and loved ones safe.
5. Cost Savings – Although the initial cost of a standby generator can be daunting, it will save you money in the long run. No more throwing out spoiled food or spending a fortune on hotel rooms during extended power outages. With your standby generator, you can stay in the comfort of your home with all the luxuries you’re used to!

Drawbacks of a Standby Generator

While there are many benefits to installing a standby generator, there are also some things to consider before making the investment:

1. Maintenance – Like any equipment, standby generators require regular maintenance to ensure they are working properly. If you want to know specifics, this maintenance can include oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic testing. We promise this won’t be a hassle, since you’ll have Giroux Electric to stay on top of that work!
2. Noise – Newer models of standby generators are designed to be quieter than older models, but if you live in a tightly spaced neighborhood, the noise might still be a concern. Pro tip: invite your neighbors over during a power outage to enjoy your standby generator. You’ll hear no noise complaints then!
3. Limited Use – If you live in an area with few power outages, a standby generator might not be worth the investment. While it can provide peace of mind during an outage, the limited use may not justify the cost unless you have a family member whose medical equipment depends on power.
4. Cost – Standby generators can be an expensive investment, but the benefits they provide are worth it. Consider it an investment in your home’s comfort, safety, and convenience.

Installing a standby generator is a valuable investment for anyone who wants to ensure their home has a reliable source of electricity during an outage. So why wait? Giroux Electric can handle the installation for you, and you’ll enjoy the peace of mind (and a fully-charged phone) that comes with it!