Unexpected power outages can disrupt daily routines, jeopardize safety, and cause costly damage to homes. Whether it’s a winter storm, equipment failure, or a strained electrical grid, being without power is more than just inconvenient—it can impact your comfort and well-being.
That’s why having a backup generator isn’t just a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity.
At Home Power Systems, we believe that true peace of mind comes from knowing your home or business will stay powered no matter what. Our mission is to deliver reliable, tailored power solutions that keep families safe, businesses running, and lives uninterrupted.
If you’re considering a generator for your home, this guide will walk you through the essential decisions to make sure your investment delivers dependable energy security when you need it most.
Step 1: Define Your Power Priorities
Before selecting a generator, think about what you'd need in the event of an extended power outage. Do you want to keep just the essentials running, or are you looking to maintain full functionality across your home?
Partial Home Backup
For homeowners who want to power key systems—like the refrigerator, lights, sump pump, Wi-Fi, and essential outlets—a smaller generator may suffice. This approach is budget-friendly and works well for shorter outages or less extreme weather events.
Whole-Home Coverage
If you want uninterrupted power for your HVAC, water heater, kitchen appliances, and home office tech, a whole-house generator is the better option. These systems are permanently installed and activate automatically when the power goes out.
Expert Tip: Our team provides customized consultations to help you identify your essential loads, so we can recommend the generator size and setup that meets your exact needs.
Step 2: Understand Fuel Options
One of the key decisions when choosing a generator is selecting the fuel source that best suits your property and lifestyle. The three most common options are:
Natural Gas
Connected directly to your home's gas supply, these generators offer a constant fuel source and minimal maintenance.
Advantages:
- No need to refuel manually
- Cleaner burning with fewer emissions
- Ideal for long outages
Propane
Great for homes without access to natural gas, propane generators rely on an onsite fuel tank and offer clean, efficient power.
Advantages:
- Long shelf life
- Cleaner emissions than diesel
- Flexible installation options
Diesel
Diesel generators are known for their high efficiency and durability, often used in commercial or rural residential settings.
Advantages:
- Efficient for high demand loads
- Reliable in cold weather
- Lower fuel consumption under load
Home Power Insight: We assess your site conditions, fuel availability, and preferences to match you with the most reliable, cost-effective solution.
Step 3: Size Matters—Choosing the Right Capacity
Generators come in a wide range of sizes and choosing the wrong one can lead to performance issues or unnecessary costs.
What to Consider:
- Running wattage – the power your appliances need to operate continuously
- Surge wattage – the additional wattage needed at startup for appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators
Here’s a quick reference:
- Essentials only (lights, fridge, Wi-Fi): 5,000–7,500 watts
- Partial coverage (plus sump pump, furnace fan, small AC unit): 8,000–12,000 watts
- Whole-home (HVAC, kitchen, multiple appliances): 12,000–22,000+ watts
Our experts perform load calculations for every home to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency—no overpaying, no underpowering.
Step 4: Professional Installation Is Key
Installing a backup generator involves more than just placing a unit in your yard. It requires careful planning, code compliance, and safe integration with your electrical system.
What Our Installation Process Includes:
- Property assessment and load analysis
- Permits and code compliance
- Generator pad and unit setup
- Transfer switch installation
- System testing and customer walkthrough
With Home Power Systems, your installation is handled by certified professionals with deep experience in residential and commercial power systems. We ensure your generator is properly sized, installed, and ready for action.
Step 5: Prepare for Ongoing Support
Even the best generator needs routine care to stay in peak condition. Regular maintenance keeps your system ready to run and helps prevent issues before they arise.
We offer ongoing support and 24/7 emergency service, so you're never left waiting in the dark. Our maintenance plans include:
- Oil and filter changes
- Battery inspections
- Software updates
- System testing
We’re here to provide reliable energy security—not just at installation, but every day after.
Why More Homeowners Are Investing in Standby Generators
The modern home relies on power for everything—from climate control and food storage to medical equipment and communication. When the grid goes down, standby generators step in automatically to restore comfort and safety.
Key Benefits:
- Seamless transition during outages
- Prevents frozen pipes, food spoilage, and sump pump failures
- Supports remote work and home schooling
- Protects homes with medical or mobility equipment
Our customers choose Home Power Systems because we offer more than a product—we deliver peace of mind. Each system is designed for reliability and built to perform when it matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install a generator?
Costs vary based on the size of the generator, fuel type, and installation requirements. Most homeowners can expect a range of $6,000–$15,000. We provide clear, upfront estimates with no surprises.
How long will a generator run?
- Natural gas units can run as long as utility service is available.
- Propane and diesel generators typically run 24–72 hours on a full tank, depending on fuel supply and load.
Can I power my entire house with a generator?
Yes, with the right size and configuration, you can achieve full-home coverage. We’ll help design a system that meets your home’s electrical demands.
How often does a generator need maintenance?
Most systems require annual service or every 100–200 hours of use. Maintenance includes oil changes, inspection, battery testing, and more.
Is a portable generator a good alternative?
Portable units can be useful in limited situations, but they require manual setup, are less efficient, and pose safety risks. Standby generators offer automatic operation, greater reliability, and longer runtime.
Powering Peace of Mind—One Installation at a Time
At Home Power Systems, we understand that when the power goes out, uncertainty sets in. That’s why we focus on delivering customized solutions, expert installation, and round-the-clock support to ensure our customers never feel left in the dark.
Why Choose Home Power Systems?
- Reliable Energy Security – Keep your home or business running through any outage
- Expert Installation & Support – From consultation to long-term maintenance, we’ve got you covered
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance – Help is always just a call away
- Customized Solutions – Every system is tailored to fit your home’s unique needs
- "Generating Peace of Mind" – It’s not just a tagline, it’s our commitment
When you're ready to invest in a smarter, safer future, we’re here to help. Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward power security and peace of mind.