Residential Home Generators: 7 Things To Know Before Buying

For Mid-south homeowners, power outages can disrupt daily life, damage appliances, and lead to uncomfortable conditions during extreme weather. If you’re considering a residential backup generator, you’ve probably realized that it’s more than just a convenience—it’s a smart investment for your home. To help you make an informed decision, here are seven key things you need to know before purchasing a residential home generator for your home.

Frequency of Power Outages—Plan Ahead With a Residential Generator

Power outages are common in Missouri and throughout the Mid-south, often caused by severe weather conditions like thunderstorms, tornadoes, and ice storms. Even short-term outages can lead to significant disruptions. A residential emergency generator provides peace of mind by keeping essential systems like heating, cooling, and refrigeration running smoothly. Planning ahead with a residential standby generator can help you avoid the stress and inconvenience of unexpected outages.

Automation Available for Home Backup Generators

One of the greatest benefits of a residential standby generator is its automation features. These generators are designed to automatically activate within seconds of detecting a power outage, restoring power to your home without you having to lift a finger. This is particularly valuable during storms or emergencies when you may not be home, and it guarantees that your household remains powered without interruption.

Lifespan of Residential Generators

A high-quality residential generator is built to last, but its lifespan can vary depending on the type of generator, maintenance, and usage. Typically, a well-maintained standby generator can last between 10 to 30 years. Residential diesel generators, in particular, are known for their durability and longer life expectancy. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial for maximizing your generator’s performance and longevity.

Customization Options

Choosing the right residential generator involves several important decisions. Homeowners need to consider factors such as fuel type, installation location, and any specific needs unique to their household. Generators can be powered by natural gas, propane, or diesel, and each option has its advantages. Additionally, you’ll want to decide where to place the unit, balancing both safety and accessibility for maintenance.

Sizing Your Residential Backup Generator

Residential backup generators come in assorted sizes, and your choice depends on how much of your home you want to power. A smaller model can keep essential systems—such as refrigerators, heating, and a few lights—running. On the other hand, a whole-house generator is designed to power your entire home, including large appliances and HVAC systems.

Standby Generator Installation

When installing a whole-house generator, it’s important to understand the process. These generators are typically connected to your home’s existing propane or natural gas lines, offering a reliable fuel source that can power the generator for extended periods. The installation also includes the addition of a transfer switch, which allows the generator to safely provide power to your home’s electrical system without back-feeding into the grid.

Best Residential Standby Generator Brands

Two of the leading brands for residential standby generators are KOHLER and Generac. Both are industry leaders known for producing reliable, high-quality products that can withstand the demands of regular use. Generac residential generators, in particular, are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their advanced technology, ease of use, and formidable reputation for performance. KOHLER generators are equally respected for their durability and innovative design.

Why Tri-State Water, Power & Air is the Trusted Choice for Residential Generators

When it comes to choosing a trusted provider for residential standby generators, Tri-State Water, Power & Air is the top choice for homeowners throughout the Mid-south. With years of experience and a dedicated team of professionals, Tri-State provides expert guidance and installation services for homeowners looking to safeguard their homes with a residential backup generator. Our team will make sure your generator is tailored to your specific needs while providing a seamless installation process and ongoing support.

Contact Us Today to Discuss Your Home Generator Needs

Ready to protect your Mid-south home against power outages? Contact Tri-State Water, Power & Air today to learn more about installing a residential backup generator. Be sure to ask about the financing options available to qualified homeowners.