How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Tarrant County Home
Choosing the right generator for your Tarrant County home isn’t as simple as picking the biggest model available. An undersized generator won’t provide enough power for your home’s needs, while an oversized unit can lead to unnecessary fuel costs and potential electrical issues. The key is correctly sizing your generator to match your Southlake, home’s power demands.
In this guide, Generator Authority breaks down how to calculate your energy usage, understand generator capacities, and ensure you have a reliable backup power solution that fits your household’s needs.
Whether you’re preparing for Texas storm season or just looking for peace of mind, selecting the right generator is crucial for safety, efficiency, and long-term performance.
Portable vs. Standby Generators: What’s the Difference?
Before diving into sizing, it’s essential to understand the differences between portable and standby generators.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are compact, movable units that run on gasoline, diesel, or propane. They are typically used for short-term power needs and require manual setup, including fueling, positioning, and connecting appliances via extension cords or a transfer switch.
Pros:
- Affordable, upfront cost
- Easily moved and stored
- Suitable for occasional power outages
Cons:
- Limited power capacity
- Requires manual operation and refueling
- Noisy and emit exhaust fumes
- Higher risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
Standby Generators
Standby generators, also known as whole-home generators, are permanently installed systems that automatically turn on during a power outage. These generators are fueled by natural gas or propane and are connected directly to your home’s electrical panel.
Pros:
- Automatically restores power
- Can power an entire home
- Higher reliability and efficiency
- Runs on existing fuel supply (natural gas or propane)
Cons:
- Higher upfront and installation costs
- Requires professional maintenance
- Not portable
Factors That Determine the Right Generator Size
Choosing the correct size generator depends on the power needs of your home. An undersized generator may not be able to run all necessary appliances, while an oversized generator may be unnecessarily expensive and inefficient. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Identify Your Power Needs
Start by determining which appliances and systems you want to power during an outage. Some homeowners may only need to keep essential devices running, while others may want full home backup power.
Common essential items:
- Refrigerator and freezer
- HVAC system
- Lights
- Well pump or sump pump
- Internet and communication devices
- Medical equipment
- Stove or microwave
2. Calculate Power Requirements
Each appliance has specific wattage requirements. Generators are rated in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW); your total power demand will help determine the right size. There are two types of wattage to consider:
- Running watts: The continuous power an appliance needs to operate.
- Starting watts: The extra power needed to start certain appliances, such as air conditioners or refrigerators.
You can find the wattage requirements in the product’s user manual or on the appliance label. To get an accurate estimate, add up the running watts of all essential devices and factor in the highest starting wattage.
3. Consider Future Power Needs
If you plan to add new appliances or expand your home, consider a slightly larger generator to accommodate future demand.
4. Evaluate Your Fuel Source
The availability of fuel sources can impact your choice. A standby generator may be more convenient if you have access to a natural gas line. If you prefer gasoline or propane, ensure you have adequate storage space and refueling options.
5. Understand Your Home’s Electrical System
Larger standby generators often require a professional installation with an automatic transfer switch, while smaller portable generators are connected directly to appliances or a manual transfer switch.
Choosing Between a Portable and Standby Generator
When the power goes out, should you rely on a portable generator or invest in a standby unit? Each option has its pros and cons, from cost and convenience to power capacity. Let’s explore which generator best fits your home’s needs.
When to Choose a Portable Generator
A portable generator is ideal if you:
- Only need to power a few essential devices
- Experience occasional short-term power outages
- Want a budget-friendly option
- Need flexibility for outdoor or job site use
Recommended Size: Portable generators range from 2,000W to 10,000W. A 5,000W–7,500W generator can typically run essential home appliances, while larger models can support additional devices.
When to Choose a Standby Generator
A standby generator is the best choice if you:
- Experience frequent or prolonged power outages
- Need uninterrupted power for medical equipment or security systems
- Want a hassle-free, automatic power solution
- Have a large home with high power demands
Recommended Size: Whole-home standby generators range from 10kW to 24kW or more. A 10kW–14kW generator can handle essential circuits, while a 20kW+ generator can power an entire home, including HVAC systems.
Contact Generator Authority for a Free Home Consultation
Choosing the right-sized generator for your home requires careful consideration of your power needs, budget, and home infrastructure. A portable generator may be the best option if you need occasional backup power for essential appliances.
However, if you want a seamless, whole-home backup power solution, a standby generator is the way to go. By calculating your energy requirements and evaluating your options, you can invest in the right generator to keep your home powered when it matters most.
Ready to find the perfect generator for your Southlake, TX, home? Contact Generator Authority today for a free consultation! Our experts can assess your power needs and recommend the best generator for reliable backup power. Call 817-984-3600 or request service online to schedule your in-home assessment!