6 Things You Should Know About Residential Automatic Standby Generators For Bethlehem, PA, Homes

6 Things You Should Know About Residential
Automatic Standby Generators For
Bethlehem, PA, Homes

All The Important Facts You Should Know
Before Making Your Investment

If the average bad storm in Bethlehem, PA, knocks out your home’s power, you may want to consider your options for residential automatic standby generators. These powerful units can ensure your home has electricity when the rest of the neighborhood is encased in darkness.

When deciding whether you need a home backup generator, gathering some information about how they work and other essential details is helpful. Understanding more than the simple knowledge that your power will be restored during an outage is beneficial when choosing the right model for your home.

We’ll explore the six most important things you need to know about residential automatic standby generators. Read on to learn more.

1. The Mechanism Of Operation

The first thing you should know about automatic generators is how they work. In contrast to manual generators, you don’t have to do anything when the power goes out. These generators are designed to recognize an outage and turn themselves on.

There will be a brief pause between the starting of the generator and the power failure as the unit waits to see if the utility will restore itself immediately. The generator will start the engine when the power remains off, and the automatic transfer switch will disconnect the home from the power grid.

An automatic home standby generator is also designed to turn itself off after power is restored. Again, you need to do nothing to ensure this happens, making it a simple way to guarantee you always have electricity, no matter the situation.

2. Local Codes And Guidelines

Installing an automatic generator requires local, National Electric Code, and International Residential Code compliance. In addition, it must be permitted before it can be installed. When you hire a reliable electrical local contractor in the Northampton and Lehigh Counties area, they’ll know and follow all the rules to guarantee you are within compliance.

3. Understand Your Power Needs

When selecting your generator, you must consider exactly what you intend to power with it. Some Bethlehem, PA, homeowners want only a few bare essentials, such as their lights and the refrigerator, while others want their entire home powered.

Not all generators are the same when it comes to the power output. You will need to choose one that can support the load you want to place on it. Additionally, you don’t want to purchase a system that offers too much capacity for what you need, as this will needlessly add to the expense.

4. How Long The Installation Process Takes

The installation of home standby generators can take a day or two, depending on several factors. Getting the permits to complete the installation can take some time. Your electrical contractor will begin the installation process with an in-home consultation to help you choose the ideal location and type of generator for your needs.

Another factor that can delay the process is the availability of the generator from the manufacturer. You’ll need to discuss this with your contractor when planning your installation to get the most updated information.

5. Who You’re Purchasing Your Generator From

An automatic home generator is a significant investment in your home, meaning you want a high-quality system installed correctly. To ensure you get these results, you need to know exactly what kind of Northampton and Lehigh Counties area company you’re working with.

One of the first things you need to know is whether they have a Master Electrician on staff. This is the highest license available before becoming an electrical inspector, and it is essential to running a great team with the knowledge and skills to do the job right.

You’ll also want to verify that all their licenses are current and up to date. They should be trained and well-versed in installing residential automatic standby generators.

6. Fuel Types

Generally, whole-home generators operate on liquid propane (LP) or natural gas. Some of the larger models can operate on diesel. You’ll need to decide which option is best for you. You’ll never have to worry about refilling a tank with natural gas. LP burns efficiently and lasts a long time, allowing you to efficiently run your generator on one tank for days.

This is another consideration to take when dealing with your code requirements. However, your electrical contractor will know what you can and cannot have for your home. They’ll help you choose the option that keeps you in compliance with local and state codes.

Choose Shafnisky Electric For Exceptional Residential
Automatic Standby Generators In Bethlehem, PA

For reliable backup power options for your Bethlehem, PA, home, consider residential automatic standby generators. Here at Shafnisky Electric, we have 35 years of experience serving the community, so we’re familiar with all the local and state codes and requirements.

We’ll ensure your new generator is flawlessly installed and compliant with all regulations. We’re your source for creative solutions to all your electrical problems.

Call Shafnisky Electric today at (610) 435–2237 to schedule a consultation.