Concerned about power cuts? Learn more about home backup generators. From keeping your fridge cold to powering essential equipment, the right backup generator can keep your home running smoothly and safely during a power outage.
In this guide we’ll explore the best backup generators for home use, comparing noise levels, capacity and features. Read on to discover the facts about home backup generators.
Choosing the Right Size Generator for Your Home
Size is crucial in the generator decision making process. Too small, and you won’t get the power you need. Too big and you’ll waste fuel and money.
As with most household purchases, research is key. Start by listing the appliances, systems and devices you need to keep running during an outage. This may include the fridge, freezer, sump pump, medical equipment or IT equipment. Check each room to identify the essential items.
Once you’ve established what you want to power up, find the wattage for each item. This may be printed on the appliance, or you can find it in the manufacturer’s instructions. Add everything up to get to the approximate size generator you need.
Quick Sizing Guide
| Home & Size Needs | Recommended Wattage |
|---|---|
| Small Home – essential appliances only | 3,000 – 5,000 watts |
| Medium Home – multiple circuits | 5,000 – 7,500 watts |
| Large Home – most appliances | 7,500 – 12,000 watts |
| Whole House Coverage | 12,000 – 25,000+ watts |
Top Tip: Size-up your generator purchase for planned extensions, electric vehicles or extra critical appliances.
Standby vs Portable – Which is Best for Your Home?
Selecting the right home backup generator starts with knowing your power requirements. As a general guide, portable generators are more suited to small to medium homes. Standby generators are capable of a more sizeable supply, powering whole house needs during long outages.
Portable
If you’re looking for a generator to use off grid as well as a backup home power solution during a blackout, a portable generator may be your best bet. This type of generator is easy to move, providing power wherever you are.
With a typical wattage of between 3,000 to 7,500, a portable generator can offer full flexibility to power your life’s adventures, while providing reliability and assurance for small to medium home needs.
Standby
Enter the fixed installation standby generator, automatically tuned in to your home electrics to click into action when the power fails. Fitted with an automatic transfer switch, a standby generator immediately steps in when it detects a power cut. This type of generator is generally larger, operating at a typical capacity of 5,000 to 10,000 watts.
The generator is permanently installed, often requiring a concrete base and proper weatherproofing. If you require whole house coverage, or if uninterruptable power is critical, a standby generator is for you.
Quietest Backup Generators for Homeowners
For many homeowners, noise is a key consideration when choosing a backup generator. Noise is measured in decibels (dB) – a 10 dB increase in sound represents a tenfold increase in sound intensity or energy. Quieter generator models produce a noise level at around 60 dB, while traditional models project around 80 dB – twenty times louder.
Inverter Generator 50-60 dB
Because of their efficient ‘on-demand’ power production, inverter generators are generally quieter than traditional models. Petrol inverters are the most common, although diesel inverter generators are available.
Standby ‘Silent’ Generator 50-65 dB
Standby ‘silent’ generators also offer low sound options, running at around 50-65 dB. Their noise is reduced through acoustic enclosures and sound dampening materials. Standby ‘silent’ generators are available in smaller petrol models or more heavy duty diesel models.
How Inverter Technology Reduces Sound
Inverter generators can adjust their engine speed based on the required electrical load. This means they don’t run at full power all the time, making them significantly quieter than traditional generators. Many inverter generators also incorporate sound reduction features like mufflers, anti-vibration mounts and sound damping materials.
Generator Safety Tips for Homeowners
Using a home generator can be a lifesaver during power outages. A backup power source can keep your home appliances running and charge vital medical equipment for those that need it. But using a generator at home comes with important safety considerations.
The primary hazards are carbon monoxide poisoning from exhaust fumes, electric shock, and fire. Follow these general guidelines for safe generator use.
- Never Use a Generator Indoors – generators produce deadly carbon monoxide and should not be used in any enclosed area due to the high risk of poisoning. Maintain a safe distance from your house and position in a well-ventilated area.
- Electrical Safety – never plug directly into a household socket as this can cause back feeding which is extremely dangerous for utility workers. Use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cable that is compatible with the unit. Keep the generator dry, make sure it is grounded and don’t overload it with too many appliances.
- Safe Refuelling – allow the generator to cool down completely before refuelling and always store fuel away from the home and potential ignition sources, in clearly labelled containers. Fuel management is key to generator safety and reliability.
- Maintenance – follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and servicing.
- Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Fire Extinguishers
Choosing the best backup generator for your home comes down to understanding your power needs and matching it with your budget. For more information on choosing the right generator contact Vital Power.
Anna Eyre
Digital Marketing Lead
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