Do I Need A Backup Generator?

We’ve all experienced a power outage at some point and know how frustrating and uncomfortable it can be. Without power, you don’t have air conditioning to beat back the Houma heat or refrigeration to prevent your food from going bad. The situation can even turn from uncomfortable to dangerous if you’re left without power for too long, especially during severe storms.

While Louisiana rainstorms are out of your control, it doesn’t mean you have to be powerless. A backup generator is a great solution when the power goes out. Trahan’s Heating & Cooling is here to show you how backup generators can keep your home running!

What Kinds Of Backup Generators Are There?

When it comes to powering your home with a backup generator, you have options to choose from, so it’s important to consider which one will best suit your home’s needs.

Portable Generators

When you think of generators, the first thing that may come to mind is a portable generator. These types of generators are typically powered by gas or diesel and are highly mobile due to their smaller size, making them ideal for construction sites, campsites and other areas where outlets aren’t available. Portable generators can also be used to provide limited power during a blackout. If you’re interested in this type of generator, they’re typically available to buy at your local hardware store.

The downside to portable generators is that they can only be used for a few hours at a time depending on their tank size, and they can’t power very many appliances at once. These kinds of generators can be helpful in a pinch, but they’re only a short-term solution.

Whole-Home Generators

Whole-home generators are more of a long-term solution in comparison to portable generators. As the name implies, whole-home generators provide power to your entire home during a power outage. These kinds of generators are connected directly to your home’s electrical system, so that when the power goes out, the generator system is notified and comes on automatically, usually within seconds.

You also don’t have to worry about frequently filling up a gas tank like you would with a portable generator. Whole-home generators are connected directly to a fuel source, such as a natural gas line or a propane tank. A larger fuel source means that you’ll have constant access to power, whether it’s for a minor outage that lasts an hour or a more severe blackout that leaves power lines down for days.

Installing A Whole-Home Generator

Because they’re stationary units, whole-home generators require installation to ensure they’re properly connected to your home’s electrical system and fuel source. You should always reach out to a licensed professional for an installation to avoid damaging your system or injuring yourself. Plus, you could face hefty fines if you attempt a job like this without the proper licensing. If you’re considering a whole-home generator for your home, it’s best to schedule the installation well before June to ensure you’re all set for the Houma, LA hurricane season.

While some homeowners are hesitant about whole-home generators because of the installation costs, they’re well worth the investment. Portable generators may be cheaper when it comes to upfront costs, but they’re quite limited in the power they provide for the amount of fuel that they burn.

Contact Your Full-Service Houma Electrician

Think that a backup generator may be right for your home? Contact Trahan’s Heating & Cooling today to see how our electrical services will help you power through future storms!