An automatic backup generator is a power system that turns on automatically in response to a power outage, and then turns off again once power is restored to your home. It’s tied in directly to your home’s electrical system, which means there’s no need to crisscross your home with dozens of extension cords or to run extension cords through open windows to provide power to your appliance, lights and other devices. And it runs using your home’s natural gas or LP gas (propane) supply so you don’t have to worry about running out to check the fuel levels or refilling it over and over again to keep it running, nor do you have to lift or store heavy cans of fuel on your property.
Automatic generators look a lot like a central air conditioning unit, and like you’re a/c unit, they sit outside your home while providing power inside. Automatic generators come in different sizes, or power levels, so you can select a model that powers your entire home or one that supports only the essential items in your home. Many models offered by leading generator manufacturers like Generac offer systems that shift or “shed” loads during use, meaning even a smaller – and more affordable – automatic home generator can handle significantly larger loads than those of just a few years ago.
How does an automatic generator actually work?
Operation is as simple as 1-2-3-4, literally:
- Electrical power is lost – maybe due to a storm, faulty equipment, an accident that’s taken down the power lines or some other cause.
- The automatic generator senses the loss of power – all on its own, with no interaction, prompting or “switching on” by you.
- Within just a few moments, the generator has “powered up” and is providing electricity to your home through its existing electrical system.
- You continue to enjoy your generator-powered electrical supply until the regular power is restored, at which point your automatic generator shuts itself off.
See here how an automatic generator detects a power outage and automatically delivers power to your home.
Unlike a portable generator that relies on you to operate when power goes out, your automatic backup generator can turn itself on and off even when you aren’t home, which means you never have to worry about returning home from vacation to find a refrigerator full of spoiled food or worry a power outage will have an impact on your pets or temperature-sensitive electronics.
And if you or a loved one uses medical equipment that relies on electricity, there’s no greater peace of mind than knowing electrical power will continue to flow no matter what, even if you’re not there to fire up a portable generator.
Of course, aside from convenience, one of the major advantages of an automatic generator is that you won’t have to worry about poisonous carbon monoxide fumes entering your home.
In recent years, the automatic generator sales have soared, and it’s no wonder: A permanently installed backup generator provides power when you need it, where you need it, no matter what. And thanks to advances in design and technology, there are more sizes and options than ever, making them an affordable option for a wide range of home budgets.
At Corbin Electrical Services, we help homeowners learn all they need to know about automatic backup generators and how today’s units can work with their home electrical system to provide greater peace of mind. Give us a call today at (732) 536-0444 to schedule your free estimate.