With the weather finally shifting to warmer days and nights, you might think your poor weather woes are over. But if you do, you’re forgetting something. Once the snow is away, the storms start up. That means replacing bad roads and sheets of ice with another common weather complication in Maryland: power outages.
With all of the intense thunderstorms, it might be time to invest in a generator system. Generators put power back in your hands and keep your home secure no matter what comes. But how do you install a home generator, and when is the best time to do it?
Take a look at some of the considerable benefits of having a new generator in your home and how you will stay safe when you lose power.
When you’re ready to purchase a whole-house generator for your home, it’s important to speak to experienced technicians who can advise you on the right model and best installation process.
Why Should I Install a Whole-Home Generator?
First, why buy a whole-home system over a simple portable generator? It’s true that a portable generator can be handy, and if the only thing you care to keep on is the refrigerator, then that’s probably just fine. But installing a whole-home generator can offer you a lot more. Whole-home generators offer considerably more benefits, including:
- Complete Electrical Access: When chosen correctly, having a whole-home generator in place means the light stays on, the HVAC keeps running, and the hot water heater is good to go. All aspects of your electrical system will have power for an extended period of time.
- Long-Term Power When You Need It: Portable generators are not only unsuitable for long-term use but are also considerably limited in how many appliances and devices you can power. A whole-home system, on the other hand, can run for an extended period of time and last for around three weeks.
- Safer Power Generation: Portable generators can be inconvenient because they’re not safe to use close to your home. This limits their usability or requires a tap box setup for a single plug-in circuit, which can be costly. Whole-home systems are safer and more cost-effective.
- Longer Service Life: With proper maintenance, you can expect your whole-home generator to last you and your family for years to come. If you choose to purchase a reputable brand on top of annual maintenance, your device could last decades.
- Increased Home Value: Installing a new, whole-home generator can increase your home’s value. That means if you ever choose to sell your home, you can list it at a higher price.
When Is the Best Time to Install a Generator at Home?
If you are now in favor of installing a whole-home generator, it’s important to know when the best time to install one is. Before making any major decisions, ask yourself these three vital questions:
- When is the time for the best generator deals?
- When is the demand for labor at its lowest so I can have a seamless installation?
- When is the peak season for power outages, and how can I prevent those?
Here in Maryland, the answer is the same for all three questions: any time before June when hurricane season begins. While there’s no wrong time for installation, it’s smart to aim before hurricane season so you can get the best deals and be prepared for any potential power outages.
How Do I Choose the Right Generator?
It’s essential to know what size and model of generator you need for your home, as over or under-sizing your generator can lead to faulty operation during power outages. However, there are only two things that you need to consider before purchasing your new whole-home generator.
The first thing you need to think about is what appliances, electronics, and devices you want to keep powered when the electricity goes out. If you only want to keep your refrigerator running, you can select a more compact unit. But, if you want to power other systems like your HVAC or water heater, you will need a more heavy-duty generator.
The next step in choosing the right home generator is to find an electric company that offers a holistic installation process for your new whole-house generator. That team will guide you and advise you, helping you pick the ideal generator to suit your needs. If possible, you also want a team that offers maintenance and replacements as well; that way, you have a single source for all of your generator needs.
If you’re looking for a team of experts who know how to install a whole-home generator in Howard County, Montgomery County, or Frederick County, Maryland, turn to us at GAC Services. Our technicians are ready to help you find the right generator for your needs and quickly install it for you. Contact us today and schedule an appointment.
