Power outages are becoming more common in Tacoma and Silverdale, WA. Backup whole home generators ensure that you stay up and running when blackouts happen. Mercurio’s generator services keep your generator running reliably, so you can have peace of mind.
Looking for a reliable whole home generator installation partner? Contact Mercurio’s today.
What Is a Backup Generator?
A backup generator provides immediate electrical power when grid power goes out. Backup generators are permanently installed fixtures that connect directly to your home’s electrical panel to supply automatic backup power when needed.
This system typically runs on either propane or natural gas and can be connected to your natural gas line for ongoing use in the case of extended outages. Whole home generators are designed to power your entire home, including major systems like HVAC, refrigeration, and lighting.
What Are the Benefits of a Whole Home Generator?
Whole home generators are a popular option among Tacoma and Silverdale homeowners. This type of generator offers numerous benefits, including:
- Continuous power: When the grid goes out, a whole home generator uses an automatic transfer switch to detect the outage and seamlessly switch the power source, often within seconds. This means you’ll have continuous power to minimize disruptions during outages.
- Protection of appliances & systems: Power surges and sudden outages can damage home appliances and devices. A whole home generator protects your investments by providing stable, consistent power to your home.
- Home safety: Keep your security system and lights on with a whole home generator. A generator helps protect you and your family from bad actors no matter the weather.
- Protection for medical equipment: If you or a family member relies on a CPAP, oxygen machine, or refrigerated medications, a generator protects critical medical equipment.
- Increased property value: A whole home standby generator can actually increase your property value. Generators are desirable equipment for homebuyers which can provide a return on your investment.
Types of Generators
There are two primary types of generators, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Let’s compare the two.
Portable Generator
A portable generator is a smaller, fuel-powered model that can be moved around and set up as needed. This type of generator is more affordable; however, it offers a limited power supply for a few essential appliances.
They must be started manually and require a steady supply of gas or propane. They can only be operated outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and appliances must be manually plugged in via extension cords.
Standby Generator
A standby or whole home generator is permanently installed beside your home and directly connected to your home’s electrical system. It runs on propane or natural gas and can run indefinitely in the case of extended outages. With a whole home generator, you don’t have to choose a few essential appliances but rather can run your home normally.
Standby generators can power your lights, refrigerator and freezer, HVAC system, and other appliances simultaneously. Standby generators monitor your power supply around the clock and automatically kick on when an outage is detected with no manual setup. The upfront investment is higher, but standby generators require minimal maintenance, provide whole home coverage, and handle extended outages.
How Are Generators Installed?
At Mercurio’s, we’re experts in generator installation. Here’s the process we use to professionally install standby generators:
- Assessment: First, we’ll assess your property to see where your generator should be placed.
- Sizing: We’ll conduct a professional load calculation to determine what size of generator you will need to meet your power demands.
- Site preparation: Next, we’ll prepare the site where the generator will sit. This often includes laying a concrete pad and cutting back landscaping.
- Installation: Mercurio’s technicians will carefully install your new standby generator and automatic transfer switch.
- Testing: We’ll run thorough tests to ensure that your generator operates safely and efficiently.
- Instructions on running: Lastly, we’ll walk through how to use and care for your new generator.
Is a Home Generator Right for You?
Home generator installation is recommended if you experience frequent outages, work from home, have critical medical equipment, or want consistent comfort, even during outages. Home generators are an investment worth making for many homeowners in Tacoma and Silverdale.
Still unsure? Give us a call at (360) 499-2980 to speak to a professional.
Contact Us Today
Mercurio’s can answer any questions you have about generator installation and whether a generator is right for you. We install whole home generators from top brands like Generac, Kohler, and more.
Call us at (360) 499-2980 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment!
FAQs
What size generator do I need?
The size of the generator you need will depend on the size of your home and how much you want to power simultaneously. One of Mercurio’s technicians can conduct a load calculation to determine the proper sized standby generator for your needs.
How loud are generators?
Standby generators typically produce noise between 50 and 100+ decibels (dB) when running. These generators are often much quieter than portable units.
How long do generators last?
Standby generators can last 20-30 years with proper maintenance, while portable models typically last 10-15 years.
