Why Invest in a Whole-Home Generator?
Power outages are no longer a rare inconvenience.
With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and aging power grids, the question is no longer if your power will go out, but when.
For Fort Worth, homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to severe storms, the answer to this growing concern is a whole-home generator.
Investing in a generator provides more than just lights during a blackout; it offers peace of mind, protection for your property, and the ability to maintain your daily life without interruption.
Generator Authority has installed hundreds of generators around the area over the years. You can trust our team to help with the installation process from start to finish, from extending your home’s gas line to making sure you buy the right-sized generator to accommodate your household needs.
What is a Whole-Home Generator?
A whole-home generator, also known as a standby generator, is the most convenient way to power your home during an outage. Unlike a portable generator, which requires manual setup and fueling, a standby generator is permanently installed outside your Fort Worth, home, much like an air conditioning unit or a heat pump.
It runs on natural gas or propane and connects directly to your home’s electrical panel. When a power outage occurs, an automatic transfer switch disconnects your home from the utility power and seamlessly switches to generator power.
When utility power is restored, the transfer switch automatically reconnects to the utility and turns off the generator.
Let’s explore five compelling reasons why a whole-home generator is a smart investment for your family.
5 Reasons to Install a Whole-Home Generator
Purchasing a new generator is a significant investment, one that will cost thousands of dollars for most homeowners.
We promise it is worth the investment, especially if you live in an area prone to power outages. Here are five reasons to consider one for your Fort Worth, home:
- Uninterrupted Comfort and Safety
In some regions of the country, where extreme temperatures are the norm, power outages can quickly become dangerous. Imagine sitting in your home without power when temperatures rise over 90°F or dip below 20°F.
A standby generator ensures your HVAC system continues to function, maintaining a safe and comfortable indoor environment. This is especially crucial for families with elderly members, young children, or individuals with medical conditions reliant on electrically powered devices.
Beyond temperature control, a generator keeps essential appliances like refrigerators running, preventing food spoilage and potential health hazards.
In the dark, homes become vulnerable to accidents and security risks. A whole-home generator keeps your lights on and security systems operational and minimizes the risk of falls or other injuries.
- Protecting Your Home and Possessions
Power outages can lead to significant property damage. Frozen pipes bursting, sump pumps failing, and spoiled food are just a few examples. A whole-home generator prevents these costly issues by ensuring critical systems remain operational.
During the winter, a generator keeps your heating system running, preventing pipes from freezing and bursting, which can lead to extensive water damage. In areas prone to heavy rainfall, a functioning sump pump powered by a generator can prevent basement flooding.
The ability to keep your refrigerator and freezer running also saves you from the financial burden of replacing spoiled groceries.
Consider the impact on your electronics and appliances. Power surges that often accompany power restoration can damage sensitive equipment. A whole-home generator, with its automatic transfer switch, provides a smooth and stable power supply, protecting your investments.
- Staying Connected in a Digital World
In today’s interconnected world, power outages can disrupt work, communication, and entertainment. With more people working from home, a reliable power source is essential for maintaining productivity. A whole-home generator ensures you can continue working, attending virtual meetings, and accessing important files without interruption.
Beyond work, staying connected with family and friends during an outage is crucial. A generator powers your internet router, allowing you to communicate and stay informed. In an emergency, this connectivity can be life-saving.
For many homeowners in Fort Worth, a generator helps maintain their livelihood and stay connected to the world.
- Increasing Your Home’s Resale Value
A whole-home generator is a valuable investment that can increase your home’s resale value. As Zillow indicates, buyers are increasingly considering natural disasters and weather-related risks when purchasing a home. A generator is a significant selling point, demonstrating that your home is prepared for any situation.
Potential buyers appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a generator. It signals that the home is well-maintained and equipped to handle power outages. In competitive real estate markets, this feature can set your home apart and attract more buyers.
- Convenience and Peace of Mind
Unlike portable generators, whole-home generators operate automatically, providing seamless power during an outage. When the utility power fails, the generator kicks in within seconds, ensuring uninterrupted electricity.
The automatic transfer switch disconnects your home from the utility grid and connects it to the generator, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
This automatic operation provides unparalleled convenience and peace of mind. You don’t have to worry about manually starting the generator or dealing with extension cords.
The system handles everything, allowing you to focus on staying safe and comfortable.
How Much Does a Standby Generator Cost to Install?
Now, let’s address the crucial question: how much does a standby generator cost to install? The answer is not a simple one, as several factors influence the final price.
The cost of a whole-home generator encompasses a wide range, with the average homeowner spending slightly over $5,000. The true answer for how much a whole-home generator costs depends on various factors, including the generator’s size, type, location, labor cost, and installation requirements.
- Size of the Generator
- The size of the generator is directly tied to the amount of power your Fort Worth, home requires. Larger generators with higher kilowatt (kW) ratings can run more appliances and systems simultaneously but are more expensive.
- To determine the appropriate size, consult with a professional to calculate your home’s load requirements.
- Type of Fuel
- Whole-home generators typically run on natural gas or propane.
- Natural gas is convenient for homes already connected to a gas line, while propane is a common choice for homes in rural areas without natural gas.
- Other Installation Factors
- Electrical Upgrades: If your home’s electrical system needs an upgrade, such as a new transfer switch or electrical panel, expect to pay more.
- Fuel Availability: If a gas line isn’t available, you may need to install a new one, which can greatly increase the installation cost. Alternatively, you could purchase a propane tank.
- Foundation Preparation: Larger generators often require a concrete pad, which adds to labor and material expenses.
- Permits: Local governments require permits for installation, which could cost $100 to $500 or more.
Please note that actual costs can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. For the most accurate information, call Generator Authority for a free quote!
Professional Generator Installation in Fort Worth
Choosing the right whole-home generator and ensuring proper installation are crucial. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our experienced professionals at Generator Authority to determine the appropriate size and type of generator for your home’s needs.
You can trust that a professionally installed generator is connected safely and efficiently to your electrical system and fuel source.
Learn More About Generators Today
Don’t get left in the dark. Investing in a whole-home generator provides numerous benefits, from keeping your family safe and comfortable to protecting your valuables—not to mention increasing your home’s value.
Call Generator Authority today to learn about installing a whole-home generator for your Fort Worth, TX, home. For a free quote, call us at 817-984-3600 or request service online today. Save those candlelight dinners for the right occasion!