To say Maryland and Southern Pennsylvania weather is unpredictable would be an understatement. One year, we could get a total of a half inch of snow, while the next could bury us in the stuff. Because of this unpredictability, it’s good to be prepared with a whole house generator installation. When installed by a professional, a residential generator could be a lifesaver in a winter emergency. Here’s how.
Why a Whole House Generator Installation Is Essential in Northern MD & Southern PA
Heavy snow, freezing rain, and strong winds (or a combination of the three) are always a possibility in this area during the winter months. These can often lead to widespread power outages. When this happens, it can spell trouble for residents, especially those who rely on well water.
A professional generator installation can relieve the pains such an outage may cause. Try as the weather may, it won’t be able to knock out a well-placed, professionally installed device that’s letting you carry on as if it’s a summer day.
How Whole Home Generators Work
So how do these devices keep your home running when the power decides to take a vacation?
- The generator is connected to your home’s electrical panel by way of an automatic transfer switch.
- It monitors utility power, and starts automatically when it detects a failure.
- When power is restored to the grid, the generator shuts off and returns your home to normal operation.
Components of a residential generator include:
- Automatic Transfer Switch: Directs power between the grid and generator
- Fuel System: Powers the generator with natural gas or propane
- Weatherproof Housing: Provides protection from snow, ice, and strong winds
Benefits of a Whole House Generator Installation
There are plenty of upsides to investing in a whole house generator installation from professionals like Holtzople. It can:
- Keep your HVAC running, allowing you to stay warm despite the frigid outdoor temperatures.
- Prevent property damage that are the result of frozen pipes and flooding from sump pump malfunctions.
- Protect sensitive equipment like computers, medical devices, and other electronics.
Choosing the Right Generator for Your Home
Generators come in various sizes with a wide range of capabilities. When you understand your own needs as well as the needs of your home, you’ll be able to choose the one that’s right for you.
Take power capacity, for example. Understanding the wattage required to run your home’s essential systems (lighting, appliances, and HVAC) will help you narrow down the specs. Equally vital is the fuel source the generator will need to run on. Do you utilize natural gas or will you need to choose an option that allows for propane use?
Though our team members will be able to help you determine possible locations, you know your property better than we do. Identifying level, well-drained areas close to your home is a great time saver, meaning you’ll be ready faster!
Generator Maintenance & Seasonal Prep
Generators are powerful, but they’re not invincible. Like any other major home system, yours will need periodic care in order to run properly.
Pre-Winter
Before the fiendishly cold weather comes knocking, schedule an annual maintenance inspection with us. We’ll come by and make sure there are no issues. On top of that, make sure the oil and battery levels, as well as the filters, are all ready for operation.
During WInter
During snowy days and blizzards, check on the generator and clear any snow or ice that’s accumulating a little too close for comfort. Be sure to give your generator a test run as well to ensure it won’t fail you in the event of an outage.
Local Permitting & Code Requirements
Maryland and Pennsylvania municipalities may require permits and inspections for the installation of standby generators. These can vary depending on the township or county you’re living in, so there’s no one-size-fits-all guide here. The good news? We’re here to help! We’re familiar with such regulations and requirements, and will be sure you aren’t violating anything with your whole house generator installation.
When to Install a Whole Home Generator
The best time for a generator installation was yesterday. The second best time is as soon as possible! When it comes to being prepared for the winter, procrastination simply isn’t an option. At the time of this blog’s publication, we’re in the middle of fall. The weather is crisp, but not dangerous. Snow is still a few weeks away at least. In short, it’s a great time to get your generator installed and ready to go (or have your existing one inspected).
Don’t wait until a storm is at your doorstep. Get this vital device in place so you can laugh in the face of inclement weather.
Professional Generator Installation Awaits
A whole house generator installation isn’t a luxury. It’s a safety precaution, and a vital one, at that. If we experience weather strong enough to knock out power, it can keep vital appliances and systems running. Without it, your comfort and safety could be at risk if a storm gets bad enough.
Don’t take that risk. Get in touch with Holtzople Heating, Air Conditioning, & Electrical Services for expert installation while the weather is still friendly!
Want some more winter prep tips? Check out another recent blog: How to Prepare Your Home’s Electrical Systems for Severe Weather
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
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