Choosing a Propane Stand-By Generator
Posted: June 7, 2016
In our last post, we explored the many benefits of a whole house (or stand-by) propane generator. This week, we’ll help you understand what you need to consider when you choose one.
Capacity
Right-sizing a stand-by propane generator depends mainly on two things: how big your home is, and what you want to power during an outage. One way to think about the second consideration is to break your energy usage down into two categories:
- Essentials – lights, refrigerator, sump and well pumps, furnace fan, security system, TV/computers, washing machine, etc.
- High-wattage items – A/C or heat pump, clothes dryer, water heater, oven or stove, etc.
Stand-by propane generators come in all sizes, and the capacity and price varies accordingly. A small 8 kW unit can operate power essentials such as lights, refrigerator, television and other small appliances, but not high wattage items. A large 25 kW commercial-grade generator, on the other hand, can easily run a heating or air conditioning system in addition to those items.
Placement
Whole house generators can be larger than a central air conditioning unit, so you’ll need free space to place it. The unit also also needs to be near a source of electricity, and must be placed according to local flood, noise and electrical codes.
In other words, your propane stand-by generator must be installed by a professional.
Cost
Stand-by propane generators range in price between $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on capacity – the more systems you want to run, the more the unit will cost.
Don’t wait for the first big storm – be ready today with a propane stand-by generator from Casey Energy. Contact us today to learn more!