Power outages aren’t just inconvenient—they can disrupt your entire day (or week), spoil food, knock out heating or cooling, and make life pretty uncomfortable. That’s why more homeowners are turning to standby generators as a reliable way to keep the lights on, the fridge running, and the A/C humming—automatically.

If you’re thinking about installing one, here’s a no-nonsense guide to help you understand what they are, how to choose the right one, and how to keep it running strong for years.

⚡ What Is a Standby Generator?

A standby generator is a permanently installed backup power system that kicks on automatically when the power goes out. It’s connected directly to your home’s electrical system and runs on natural gas or propane, so there’s no need to drag it out of the garage or refill it with gasoline during a storm.

Most models start within seconds of detecting a power loss—and they can run for days, keeping your home safe and comfortable until utility power is restored.

🔍 What Should You Look for in a Standby Generator?

Choosing the right generator comes down to more than just picking the biggest or most expensive model. Here’s what really matters:

✅ 1. Power Output (Size)

This is where most homeowners get stuck. Generators are measured in kilowatts (kW), and how much you need depends on how much of your house you want to power.

10–14 kW: Great for essentials—fridge, sump pump, a few lights and outlets.
14–20 kW: Covers more, like central heat or A/C, well pump, and kitchen appliances.
20–26+ kW: Powers your entire home—just like nothing happened.

📌 Pro Tip: Don’t guess. A licensed electrician can do a load calculation based on your home’s electrical panel and appliances.

✅ 2. Fuel Source

Most standby generators run on:

Natural Gas – Unlimited supply if you’re already connected to the utility.
Propane – Ideal for rural areas; requires a tank and refills.
Diesel – Powerful, but not common for residential use.

✅ 3. Transfer Switch

An automatic transfer switch (ATS) instantly switches your home’s power from the grid to the generator during an outage—then back again when power is restored. Some switches can prioritize loads (called load shedding) so you don’t overload the system.

✅ 4. Brand & Warranty

Top brands include:

Generac
Kohler
Briggs & Stratton
Cummins

Look for solid warranties (5–10 years) and local support in case you need service.

✅ 5. Noise Level

Standby generators are quieter than portable models, but still make some noise. If you live close to neighbors—or just want peace and quiet—look for a low-decibel model with noise-reducing enclosures.

🔧 Maintenance: What You Need to Know

Just like your car, your generator needs regular maintenance to keep it in good shape. The good news? It’s not a huge hassle, especially if you schedule annual service or join a maintenance plan.

🗓 Monthly

Check for leaks or weird noises
Make sure it’s running weekly self-tests (most do this automatically)

🛠 Every 6 Months

Change the oil and oil filter
Inspect the battery, air filter, spark plugs

🧰 Once a Year

Full professional inspection
Clean and test all components
Software updates (for Wi-Fi enabled models)

📏 How Big a Generator Do I Need?

Here’s a quick reference chart to get you started:

Home Usage	Recommended Size
Essentials only	10–12 kW
Essentials + HVAC + pumps	14–18 kW
Full home coverage	20–26+ kW

Still unsure? Use an online generator sizing calculator or get a quote from a licensed electrician. Better to oversize slightly than be left in the dark!

💡 Final Thoughts: Is a Standby Generator Worth It?

Absolutely—especially if you live in an area with:

Frequent storms or power outages
Remote access or well water
A home office or sensitive electronics
Medical equipment that needs constant power

A standby generator is a long-term investment in your home’s comfort, safety, and value. And once it’s installed, you can relax knowing your power is covered—no matter what the weather throws at you.

✅ Ready to Power Through Anything?

Don’t wait for the next blackout to catch you off guard.

👉 Schedule a free in-home assessment with us today and find out exactly what size generator your home needs.
👉 Need help choosing the right brand or model? Contact us for expert advice and product recommendations.
👉 Already own a standby generator? Ask about our maintenance plans to keep your system in top shape year-round.