What You Should Know About Home Backup Power Systems

Power outages are a common occurrence across the country. They can range from being a mere inconvenience to a more significant problem. Thankfully, home backup power systems enable people to still access power even when the main lines go down.

Here, we’ll touch on what causes power outages, how home backup power systems can help, and the types of home backup power systems available. Let’s get into it. 

What Causes Power Outages?

Power outages can be caused by a number of things, from equipment failure to weather to human error. There are also other causes, like planned outages for maintenance or upgrades, animals, and periods of high demands.

Depending on the cause of the power outage, the grid may be able to recover quickly, as from temporary shorts, or it may take more time, such as if a power pole is damaged.

The Role Of Home Backup Power Systems

When the power goes out, it might just be an annoying inconvenience. However, if the power goes out for an extended period of time, then you start running into problems like the food in your fridge spoiling or not having the power you need for important medical equipment. Not having power can cause people who work remotely to be unable to do their jobs. If you live somewhere with extreme temperatures, then your home may start to become uncomfortable.

Home backup power systems do just that – provide backup power so that when the main line is down, you can still have access to some power. Some home backup power systems are strong enough to keep your lights on and your appliances running while others have less power than this.

Types Of Home Backup Power Systems

There are three basic types of home backup power systems you can opt for: portable generators, whole home standby generators, and battery backup systems.

Portable Generators

These are going to be your most affordable option. As the name suggests, these are portable options, which means they need a fuel source, like gas or diesel. These need to be run outside of the home in a well-ventilated area. The generator is typically connected to your appliances through an extension cord. 

It’s important to be cautious with how many lights and appliances you have relying on the portable generator, because they can become overloaded, which can result in damage to either the generator or the appliances. They are also quite loud, as they don’t have dampeners. 

Portable generators can last for over 20 years, if properly maintained and not used excessively.

Whole Home Standby Generators

Whole home standby generators power your entire home, as the name suggests. They usually use natural gas or liquid propane as a fuel source. These generators are larger than portables and typically mounted on a concrete pad outside of the home. Gas lines can be plumbed to the unit. 

Their electrical output is routed through a transfer switch that senses grid power and will automatically start the generator if needed. These generators can run for days or weeks as long as the fuel source is not disrupted. They are also as quiet as an idling car.

For these generators, proper sizing and installation is absolutely essential. You want to ensure you work with experienced professionals for these. While a bigger investment than a portable, they add value to your property and grant you peace of mind.

Battery Backup Systems

Battery backup systems can be charged through the power grid or through renewable sources like solar panels. They discharge direct current voltage and can power direct current appliances. Most appliances run on alternating current voltage, and so need an inverter to convert direct current to alternating current. 

These are silent, but only have a limited amount of power stored. These are the most expensive option.

Get The Reliable Home Backup Power Systems You Need

Generator Supercenter of Northern Utah provides whole home generators to homeowners throughout Northern Utah. Our Generac generators can power your whole house, so that even if the main grid goes down, you’re not left in the dark. Our experienced professionals work closely with you in order to help you find the ideal generator for your needs. We also don’t leave you stranded after installation – rather, we provide the ongoing maintenance and service you need to keep your generator in tip-top shape.

To learn more about our generators, please don’t hesitate to either swing by our showroom in Riverdale, UT, or contact us. We’re happy to help you out however we can.