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A home generator can be a great convenience when you need backup power, whether for a personal project or in the case of a minor power outage. In cases of major storms or natural disasters, however, your generator is a necessity for the most basic needs and maybe lifeline to keeping your home or business habitable and running.

Whatever your reason for owning a generator, it is helpful to keep the following in mind, especially if you have time to shop for the unit that is most beneficial to you.

Consider how you will use your generator. This will be influenced by the types and frequency of storms/disasters you anticipate in your community.

If you seek the peace of mind that food won’t spoil during the occasional power outage, a smaller portable generator may be sufficient. If you live in an area that tends to experience intense storms or tornados, a larger generator designed to keep your home running for an extended period of time may be more appropriate.

Generator sizes range from those that power just essentials (refrigerator, sump pump, microwave, and a few lights) to large units that keep air conditioning and even a washer and dryer fueled. Obviously cost increases with the unit’s wattage, so take some time to imagine what your family will need in the event of a power outage or natural disaster.

The question of portable versus permanently installed generators – both have advantages.

A permanent standby generator is a good idea if you live in a vulnerable area, if you are running a business or if you know you will need to have full, reliable power to your home or business for potentially extended periods of time. They run on natural gas or propane and turn on automatically when power is interrupted, giving you peace of mind that you will never be without power. Most homeowners also find they add value to the resale value of their homes, especially in storm-prone areas.

Portable generators have the advantage of being portable. You can take your generator anywhere that you may need backup power, from camping trips to a woodshop on your property to a new home. For those on a budget, a portable generator can be purchased at a pretty reasonable price and get you the power you need in most situations.

A trial run may help you and your family determine the best generator for your needs.

You don’t have to cut the power to your house. Simply imagine there is no power and take a walk through your typical routine, from turning on a light in a room to dinner preparations, and consider what is essential. For a family member who relies on medical equipment, power is crucial, but your morning cup of coffee can be instantly stirred into water warmed in the microwave. Consider your climate and how you will keep your family comfortable either with heat or air conditioning. Once you have made your list of must-haves, you will have a better idea of the wattage and style of generator best suited to your family.

If you are considering purchasing a home generator, the experts at Clayton Heating and Air Conditioning can help you. Our team is ready to help you choose the right generator for your home or business. We carry quality Kohler generators, so you know you have power when you need it.