Generator Services in Brunswick County

Choosing Your Whole House Generator for Brunswick County

The type of generators varies depending on various factors such as the size, the number of electrical appliances you have, the fuel source of the generator, as well as its transfer switch options. We have created a list of factors that affect the type of generator to help you purchase the right model.

Size of the Generator

Generators are typically rated by kilowatts, which measure the capacity that the machine can handle. If you are looking for an entry-level, whole-house unit, it’s advisable to consider one that has a capacity of 22 kilowatts.

If you want to replace about 75% of the 200 amps that flow into your electrical panel, you need to choose a standby generator rated 27 to 36 kW. These types of generators are equipped with advanced load-managing hardware such as A/C shedding. The advantage of such a system is that the A/Cs start at different times to protect the system from an overload.

At A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical, we recommend the 48kW generator in case you want a system to back up your entire house. Such a system can produce 220 amps of power at 240 volts, which is nearly the amount of energy that comes from the utility.

Choosing the right size generator is crucial not only for meeting your current electrical needs but also for accommodating future growth. Anticipate any planned home extensions or additions to your appliance inventory when selecting a generator. A generator that can handle peak loads is ideal for households with high energy consumption patterns. Consulting with professionals can provide insights into sizing for optimum efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Power Requirements in Your Brunswick County Home

You need to look at your house and the number of appliances you use to determine the amount of power the generator should supply. The appliances that drain most of the energy are the air conditioner followed by kitchen appliances. It’s also vital to consider the number of people you live with. If you have more people, the power demand is going to increase. Once you determine the total wattage the house requires, you can begin looking at appropriately sized generators.

Mapping out your power requirements should involve a detailed analysis of both essential and non-essential appliances. This ensures that during an outage, essential services like heating, refrigeration, and lighting are prioritized. Creating a power management plan can help allocate backup power effectively during different scenarios, ensuring that you maximize the generator's functionality without overloading its capacity.

Fuel Source for Generators

Most generators use natural gas or liquid propane, which can be a bit problematic to find. Luckily, some of the whole-house units come with a diesel option, which is more accessible. Both liquid propane and diesel-powered generators require large fuel tanks. This ensures the system runs for days without requiring refills. The natural gas meter, similarly, must be the right size. We advise our clients to ensure they have a reliable source of fuel before buying a generator.

The choice of fuel source impacts not only the operational efficiency of your generator but also its ecological footprint. Natural gas is cleaner but requires a steady pipeline supply, which may not be feasible in all locations. Diesel, on the other hand, offers high energy density and eases onsite storage. Weighing the environmental considerations and cost implications of each fuel type can guide you in making responsible choices aligned with local availability and sustainability goals.

Type of Switch for Efficient Generator Use

During our many years of operation, we discovered that the type of switch in a generator matters a lot. Getting the right switch is as essential as choosing the right generator because they work together to restore power. Consider getting a generator with an automatic switch.

An automatic switch is always on standby to come into action whenever there is a power failure. These generators make the transfer of power source seamless because the process only takes a few seconds.

Manual switches that require you to physically turn the generator “on” or “off” when there is a blackout can be time-consuming and an inconvenience. Say if your family is on vacation when there’s an outage, you could return days later to a fully defrosted freezer.

The integration of smart technology in automatic switches allows for remote monitoring and operation, which can be a game-changer in modern home management. These smart systems can alert you to usage patterns, efficiency metrics, and potential issues before they become significant, allowing for proactive maintenance and improved reliability. With increased automation, homeowners can enjoy peace of mind and confidence in their generator systems.

Protect Your Investment with Regular Generator Maintenance in Brunswick County

Ensuring your generator is reliable over the long term involves more than just high-quality installation—it requires regular maintenance. Routine checks and services can prolong the life of the generator, improve its efficiency, and minimize the risk of failure during critical times. We recommend scheduling maintenance at least twice a year to inspect electrical connections, fuel systems, and overall functionality.

Our maintenance services at A+ Heating & Cooling – Electrical include a comprehensive inspection that assesses generator oil levels, fuel lines, and battery status, among other components. Regular maintenance not only keeps your generator in peak condition but also identifies potential issues before they become costly repairs. Commitment to this routine service protects your investment and ensures your home's resilience during any power outage.

FAQs About Generator Services in Brunswick County

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Generator?

When selecting a generator, consider factors such as the size of your home, your power needs, the type of fuel, and the operating noise levels. Evaluate how many appliances you require power for during an outage. Consider whether you prefer a generator that runs on natural gas, propane, or diesel, paying attention to local availability. Noise levels are also crucial, especially in residential areas where excessive noise can be a disturbance.

How Long Can a Backup Generator Typically Run?

A backup generator can run for various lengths of time depending on its capacity, fuel source, and load. Generally, standby generators can run continuously for 24 to 48 hours, with proper maintenance and an adequate fuel supply. It’s crucial to check fuel levels regularly, especially during extended outages, to prevent system strain and ensure continuous operation.

What Maintenance Does a Generator Require?

Routine maintenance is essential to keep your generator in optimal working condition. This includes inspecting oil levels, changing air filters, checking for fuel line leaks, and testing the battery. It's advisable to hire professionals for comprehensive inspections twice a year. Scheduled maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and extends the generator's service life.

Are There Any Noise Regulations for Generators in Brunswick County?

Yes, Brunswick County has regulations concerning acceptable noise levels for residential generators. These regulations help ensure that generators do not become a nuisance to neighbors. It's essential to choose a generator model with a decibel rating that complies with local ordinances and consider additional noise-reduction measures if necessary to adhere to community standards.

Can Installing a Generator Affect My Home Insurance?

Installing a whole-home generator may positively impact your home insurance policy. Many insurers offer discounts for homes with backup power sources, as they lessen the risk of damage or loss during power outages. It's advisable to consult with your insurance provider to understand any potential benefits and ensure installation is documented and compliant with home safety standards.