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Natural Gas Generators: The Buying Guide

Family of Four at Their Home

When considering the purchase of a new whole-house standby generator, there are several important factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, assessing your power needs is critical. Consider the essential appliances and systems you want to keep running during a power outage. A professional generator technician can help determine the proper unit size based on the number of circuits, wattage requirements, and your specific needs.

Additionally, consider the fuel source for your generator. Natural gas standby generators, like the Honeywell models exclusively offered by Nick’s Generators, are popular due to their convenience and continuous fuel supply. Other options include propane and diesel generators, which may require on-site fuel storage, which adds complexity and maintenance requirements. Ensure that the generator you choose complies with local building codes and regulations, and factor in installation costs and any necessary permits.

Finally, look for a reputable and certified dealer like Nick’s Generators, known for its installation, maintenance, and servicing expertise, as a trustworthy partner in safeguarding your home’s power needs.

What Factors Should I Consider in My Whole House Generator Purchase?

1.   Wattage

When installing a new whole-house generator, careful consideration of wattage is paramount. List the essential appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. This should include:

  • refrigerators
  • heating and cooling systems
  • lights
  • well pumps
  • security systems

Each of these appliances has a specific power requirement, measured in watts. Add up the wattages of all the devices you wish to power simultaneously to determine your generator’s minimum wattage capacity.

It’s advisable to consult a professional generator technician who can accurately calculate your home’s total power needs, ensuring that the generator you choose provides ample capacity to cover all essential circuits without overloading the system. Properly sizing the generator regarding wattage ensures uninterrupted comfort and functionality during power outages.

2.   Size

When installing a new whole-house generator, unit size is a critical factor to consider. The generator’s size should align with your home’s specific power needs to ensure it can adequately supply electricity during an outage. To determine the appropriate unit size, you should assess the electrical load of your house, including essential appliances and systems you want to power during an outage.

A professional generator technician can perform a load calculation to size the generator accurately, factoring in each device’s starting and running wattage requirements. It’s crucial to select a generator that offers sufficient capacity without oversizing, as a huge unit can be less efficient and costlier—getting the unit size properly guarantees that your whole-house generator will provide seamless backup power when needed.

3.   Generator Type

Standby generators come in various types, but natural gas-powered generators are one of the most popular and advantageous options for homeowners. These generators are designed to run on your home’s natural gas supply, making them highly convenient and efficient. One key benefit of natural gas standby generators is their continuous fuel source. Unlike propane or diesel generators that require on-site fuel storage, natural gas generators receive a consistent supply from the utility, ensuring that your generator remains operational as long as necessary during a power outage.

In addition to their uninterrupted fuel source, natural gas generators are typically more environmentally friendly than their counterparts, producing fewer emissions and reducing your carbon footprint.

They are also known for their quieter operation and require less maintenance than diesel generators, making them a reliable and hassle-free choice for homeowners.

When considering standby generators, choosing a natural gas-powered unit can provide peace of mind, knowing that your home will have a dependable backup power source that seamlessly kicks in during outages.

4.   Maintenance Requirements

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your whole-house generator is ready to perform when needed. Regular maintenance checks help identify and address potential issues before they become significant problems, ensuring the generator’s reliability during power outages. Some essential maintenance tasks for a whole-house generator include:

  • changing the oil and filters
  • inspecting the fuel system
  • checking the battery
  • testing the automatic transfer switch

These tasks help keep the generator’s engine in good working condition, ensuring it starts and operates smoothly when needed.

Additionally, routine inspections include checking for loose or corroded electrical connections, inspecting the air and cooling systems, and ensuring the generator’s enclosure is clean and debris-free.

It’s also essential to maintain a record of maintenance activities and schedule professional maintenance at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall, to address any issues and keep your generator in optimal condition. A well-maintained whole-house generator extends its lifespan and gives you the peace of mind that your home will remain powered during unexpected outages.

5.   Noise Concerns

Generator noise levels can be a significant concern for homeowners, especially if the generator is installed near living spaces. Honeywell whole-house generators are known for their quiet operation, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize noise reduction. Thanks to advanced engineering and sound-dampening technology, Honeywell generators produce minimal noise compared to many other models in the industry.

This means that even during a power outage, you can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful home environment without the disturbance of excessive generator noise. Honeywell’s commitment to providing reliable backup power and a quiet, unobtrusive solution sets them apart as an ideal choice for homeowners seeking performance and comfort.

6.   Safety Concerns

Safety is paramount when it comes to whole-house generators, and Honeywell whole-house generators are designed with multiple safety features to ensure your peace of mind during operation.

One critical safety aspect is automatic shut-off in case of low oil pressure or overheating, preventing potential engine damage and fire hazards. Honeywell generators also have automatic voltage regulation to protect sensitive electronic equipment in your home from voltage spikes and surges, ensuring their safe and uninterrupted operation.

Furthermore, Honeywell generators feature advanced technology that allows for automatic start and transfer to generator power when the main utility power fails, reducing the risk of power interruptions and keeping your home secure.

They also have weather-resistant enclosures, ensuring safe operation in various outdoor conditions. With a commitment to safety and reliability, Honeywell whole-house generators offer homeowners a trusted solution to protect their families and homes during power outages.

Call Nick’s When You’re Ready to Discuss a New Honeywell Whole-House Generator!

Nick’s Generators stands ready to be your trusted partner when deciding on a whole-house generator installation. With our decades of experience, dedicated team of certified technicians, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, we are the go-to choice for Houston residents seeking a reliable and seamless backup power solution.

From the initial consultation to expert installation, maintenance, and repairs, we offer comprehensive services to ensure your peace of mind during power outages.

Don’t leave the comfort and security of your home to chance when the subsequent blackout strikes. Contact Nick’s Generators today to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you through selecting, installing, and maintaining a top-tier Honeywell whole-house generator. Your family’s safety and well-being are our priority, and we’re here to provide the reliable power solution you deserve. Make the intelligent choice with Nick’s Generators – where expertise, dedication, and customer satisfaction unite to keep your home powered and protected.

Call Nick’s Today. We’re on the Way!

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