Standby Generator

http://www.AsktheBuilder.com host Tim Carter explains what a standby generator is, how it works and why you should hire a professional to install your home generator.

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Howto & Style

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• standby generator
• home
• house
• askthebuilder
• tim carter
• diy
• howto
• electric

[txmoney]

So, I'm guessing a typical 17kW standby will cost between $4,000-$5,000 plus the installation cost which could range between $2,500-$3,500. Total maximum cost = $8,500 + tax. That's quite an investment. But well worth it if you've ever experienced a power outage more than a couple days. I'm talking about you Connecticut!

[AsktheBuilder]

@txmoney Mine was on for 4 hours this morning. My cable Internet is still out. I'm doing this post via my backup wireless phone data plan. You need power.

[BigYellow9999]

While you probably won't find 60K watt portable generators, most homes don't need nearly that much power. I have a 6800 Watt Ridgid generator that runs basically everything except for my 40 amp oven (can use my microwave, which has an oven feature), my 50 amp dryer (not worried about drying clothes during a power loss) and my central AC (I can get by with fans).

I can hook it up to my house with a transfer switch, so no need to use extension cords. It's cheaper and portable.

[AsktheBuilder]

@BigYellow9999 What you forgot to mention is that you can't operate *all* the things you want at the same time. Do the math: Operating the microwave, a hairdryer, your well pump, a refrigerator and your dishwasher at the same time and you're portable generator is toast. And all this while you're using flashlights. When you reply to my comment, bring with you the wattage of everything in your house that *could* be on at the same time as if there was no outage. That's the real test.

[HoBustinJopson]

sounds like too much $ and labor for me. may if i lived further up north. i would like something lil more practical for those of us who dont make 6 digits a year.

[AsktheBuilder]

@HoBustinJopson Yes, they can absolutely be expensive to install. You're paying for three things: tremendous extra power you can't get from a tiny gasoline generator, convenience because it automagically comes on and is HARD wired into your system, and above all SAFETY. Portable generators, with the spaghetti extension cords are not safe - not to mention the carbon monoxide hazard.

[water4fuelh20]

In today's economy none of us can afford this. I'll stay with my 4000 watt. Most people don't even have that when the power goes out and they suffer terribly...:(

[MrStrictlyStock]

Congratulations on getting a pro to install it. Too many scofflaws/cheapskates risk the lives of power company lineman by avoiding the transfer switchgear.

[jpizfulful]

@HoBustinJopson That is just enough to even maybe buy a whole house generator. A 25,000 watt unit with a transfer system and install costs about 5 grand. Look at your panel and see. That looks pretty cheap for 25,000 watts.

[jonathanspindler]

I'm a master electrician in Ontario, I've install several of these types of units, I do find them fairly costly, both for the product and the BIG install bill!

[HoBustinJopson]

@AsktheBuilder i only make bout 34000/year. is there a practical way for me to have one? it dont have to be fancy. something i could turn on manually.