Choosing The Right Backup Generator For Your Home is Not Easy – Here is a Simple to Follow Guide to Help You
How to Choose The Right Home Backup Generator – Choosing the best backup (also called a standby) generator for your home is not as easy as you might think. There a a lot of generators to choose from. Some are standby generators that power your entire home, and others are temporary generators that are best suited for emergencies.
For the purpose of this article, we will focus on what are known as Whole Home Generators which are also sometimes called Standby Generators.
Whole home generators are made to power your entire home if the power goes out. They are set to “standby” mode and automatically start running if your home loses power.
Whole home generators are permanent fixtures and are fairly large, so you will need to think about where they are going to be located.
Most large whole home generators run on natural gas or propane. This is good news because you can often just route an existing natural gas line (like one that is used for your water heater) to fuel the generator.
This way you aren’t dependent upon hauling gasoline or diesel fuel to constantly refill your generator.
And this matters – often when disasters strike, the first thing to run out is gas and diesel fuel.
One of our good friends in New Orleans endured (like most of the city) an entire month without power after Hurricane Ida. But because he had a natural gas powered whole home generator, he had electricity, air conditioning, and internet the entire time.
His home became a sort of community gathering place because their home the only place for a mile around to charge your phone and use the internet.
But it is not just hurricanes that cause length power outages. Forest Fires cut power to homes throughout the mountain west.
Ice storms, which can happen in any part of the country can cause city wide blackouts that last for days or weeks. It can be extremely cold at night in Utah if the power goes out and you have no way to keep your heater running because you depend on electric heat.
No matter where you are in Utah, having a standby generator to power your entire home is a good idea.
The rest of this article is dedicated to helping you understand the requirements and what you need to think about when considering installing a whole home generator in Utah.
Things You Need to Consider In Choosing a Generator
- Determine Power Needs: To start off, you must figure out how much power you are going to need. In general, you are probably going to need a 15kw generator (minimum) and to be certain, most homes should probably look at a 22kw generator.
- Brand of Generator: Standby generators are permanently installed and automatically turn on during an outage. According to consumer reports there are three primary brands that are all pretty good: Generac, Kohler, and Champion.
- Fuel Type: Most standby permanent generators are going to use propane or natural gas. So you will either have to connect to an existing line, run a new line, or get a natural gas tank if need be.
- Noise Level: Consider the noise level of the generator, especially if it will be used in a residential area. Some generators are designed to be quieter than others.
- Installation and Maintenance: Consider the installation process and ongoing maintenance requirements. Standby generators typically require professional installation and being able to pay for maintenance in your area is a big plus.
- Warranty and Service: Research reputable brands and check the warranty offered. A good warranty can provide peace of mind. Also remember service. A generator is a machine, and every machine will have problems sooner or later. You will need service, so read reviews about customer service for different brands.
More on The List of Things to Consider When Purchasing a Standby Whole Home Generator
Determine power needs
Determining power needs is the first step in selecting the right backup generator. To ensure your generator can handle all essential appliances and systems during an outage, calculate the total wattage required.
Start by listing everything you want to power, such as refrigerators, lights, HVAC systems, computers, and even medical equipment if necessary. Each device has a specific wattage required to run, often indicated on the appliance label. Add these values together, prioritizing essentials to avoid overloading the generator.
Remember, as a general rule, for a whole home generator, most people are going to want at least a 15kw generator, and 22kw will handle just about any home’s power needs.
Brand of generator
There are primarily three major brands of whole home standby generators – Kohler, Generac, and Champion. Although there are others, these are the big players in the standby generator market.
Be sure to do your research. Each brand has pros and cons that range from price to service to reliability. Research the reviews of each brand.
Fuel type
Most whole home generators are going to use propane or natural gas. Gas and Diesel are some of the first things to dry up during a natural disaster, but propane isn’t as bad.
Natural gas is highly convenient as it’s supplied to your home, but service disruptions can occur in widespread outages. You may want to consider having a backup tank installed for emergencies.
Noise level
Noise level is an important factor when selecting a backup generator, especially in residential areas where loud sounds can disturb neighbors or disrupt daily activities.
Generators can vary significantly in their noise output, measured in decibels (dB), with some being as loud as a lawnmower.
For home use, opting for a quieter model designed with noise-reduction features, like sound-insulated enclosures, can make a big difference.
Many inverter generators, known for their quiet operation, are ideal for locations where noise is a concern.
Always consider local noise regulations and prioritize a generator that balances performance with a tolerable sound level.
Installation and maintenance
Proper installation and maintenance are vital to ensure a backup generator operates reliably when needed.
Professional installation is essential, as it involves integrating complex electrical and fuel systems safely and in compliance with local codes.
This process often includes connecting a transfer switch and ensuring the generator is positioned correctly for ventilation and noise control.
Maintenance is equally important to keep your generator in top condition. Regular tasks, such as oil changes, filter checks, and battery inspections, prevent unexpected failures.
Many manufacturers also require professional servicing to honor warranties.
A well-installed and maintained generator provides peace of mind during power outages.
Brand and warranty
Choosing a reliable brand and strong warranty is essential when investing in a backup generator. Reputable brands are known for consistent quality and durable performance, reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns during an outage.
A good warranty protects your investment by covering potential issues, providing repairs or replacements without extra costs. Well-established brands typically offer better customer support, making it easier to source parts or get professional servicing if needed.
A longer and comprehensive warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s reliability.
By opting for a trusted brand with a solid warranty, you gain peace of mind and long-term security.
Other Considerations When Installing a Home Backup Generator

When getting a backup generator installed for your home or business, here are a few additional considerations to keep in mind:
- Local Regulations and Permits: Ensure you understand local zoning laws and building codes. You may need permits for installation, and there might be restrictions on where you can place the generator.
- Transfer Switch: A transfer switch is essential for safely switching power from the grid to your generator. It prevents backfeeding, which can be dangerous to utility workers and your electrical system.
- Weather Considerations: Consider the climate in your area. Some generators are better suited for extreme weather conditions, and you might need additional protection like enclosures or covers.
- Fuel Storage: If you choose a generator that requires stored fuel, ensure you have a safe and compliant storage solution.
- Testing and Maintenance: Regularly test your generator to ensure it’s in working order. Schedule routine maintenance to address any wear and tear before it becomes a problem.
- Insurance: Check with your insurance provider to see if installing a generator affects your policy. Some insurers offer discounts for homes with backup power systems.
About The Installation Process For Standby Generators
The installation process for standby generators involves several key steps to ensure they are set up safely and effectively.
Here’s a general overview of the process to consider when you are thinking about how to choose the right home backup generator:
- Site Assessment: A professional will assess your property to determine the best location for the generator. This location should be close to the fuel source and the electrical panel, while also adhering to local codes regarding distance from windows and doors.
- Permits and Approvals: Obtain any necessary permits and approvals from local authorities. This step is crucial to ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations.
- Prepare the Site: The installation area is prepared, which may involve pouring a concrete pad or installing a prefabricated base to support the generator.
- Delivery and Placement: The generator is delivered and placed on the prepared site. This step often requires special equipment due to the generator’s weight.
- Electrical Connections: A licensed electrician will connect the generator to your home’s electrical system. This involves installing a transfer switch, which allows the generator to take over during a power outage without backfeeding electricity into the grid.
- Fuel Connection: The generator is connected to the fuel source, whether it’s natural gas, propane, or diesel. This step must be performed by a qualified technician to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
- System Testing: Once installed, the system is thoroughly tested to ensure everything is working correctly. This includes running the generator and checking the automatic transfer switch operation.
- User Training: The installer will provide training on how to operate and maintain the generator, including how to perform regular checks and what to do in case of an issue.
- Regular Maintenance: After installation, regular maintenance is essential to keep the generator in good working condition. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, and periodic system checks.
Do I Need An Electrician To Help Me Install a Backup Generator For My Home

Yes, you need a licensed electrician to help with the installation of a backup generator for your home or business. Here’s why:
- Safety: Working with electricity can be dangerous. A licensed electrician has the expertise to handle electrical connections safely, reducing the risk of accidents or electrical fires.
- Compliance with Codes: Electrical installations must comply with local building codes and regulations. An electrician ensures that your generator installation meets all necessary legal requirements.
- Proper Connection: An electrician will correctly install the transfer switch, which is crucial for safely switching power from the grid to your generator during an outage. This prevents backfeeding, which can be dangerous to utility workers and your electrical system.
- System Integration: An electrician can ensure that your generator is properly integrated with your home’s or business’s electrical system, providing reliable power to essential circuits.
- Troubleshooting and Testing: Electricians can troubleshoot any issues that arise during installation and perform thorough testing to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Warranty and Insurance: Professional installation by a licensed electrician is often required to maintain the warranty on your generator and to ensure coverage by your insurance policy.
Hiring a professional not only ensures a safe and compliant installation but also provides peace of mind knowing that your backup power system will function correctly when you need it most. The last thing you want is to find out you installed your generator improperly in the middle of a system failure when you need it the most.
Who Makes The Best Whole House Backup Generators?
When you are thinking about how to choose the right home backup generator it is important to read reviews and consumer reports. According to Consumer Reports some of the best brands for whole-house standby generators include Champion, Generac, and Kohler. These brands are known for providing reliable power during outages and are highly rated in their tests.
Generac is probably the best-selling maker of generators, but if you read online reviews about their service, they get some mixed reviews.
Kohler is considered a little more expensive, but reviewers generally agree that the system is robust and durable.
Consider Service and Maintenance
One thing to consider before purchasing a particular brand of generator is their service and maintenance. You want to make sure that if you have a problem, you can get service involved and get your problem fixed.
Also, backup generators do require maintenance, so you want to be sure that you can get your generator maintained wherever you are.
Otherwise you may be forced to rely on a service provider who is not specifically aligned with the brand of generator you had installed.
There is nothing worse than having a product you cannot get maintenance on or who has terrible customer service when you have issues.
Summary – How to Choose The Right Home Backup Generator
How to Choose The Right Home Backup Generator – Purchasing and installing a home generator (also called a standby generator) is not as simple and straight forward as you may think.
You will need to assess your power needs by calculating the total wattage required for essential appliances like refrigerators, lights, HVAC systems, and computers.
You will need to determine the fuel type that best suits your needs. Whole home generators mostly run on propane, or natural gas.
Noise level is a factor. You might have to run your generator for days or weeks. The noise can get old, especially for your neighbors.
Professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial for safe, reliable operation and may be required to maintain warranties.
When deciding on the brand of generator you want to buy, read reviews and consider a reputable brand with a strong warranty to ensure durability, quality, and service availability.
And last of all, remember that you will want your standby generator to be installed by a professional who understands power requirements, building code, and proper installation so you don’t void your warranty.
Having a backup generator for your home in Salt Lake City or anywhere in Utah is a good idea. We hope you have found this article helpful when thinking about How to Choose The Right Home Backup Generator.
And if you are searching for a professional electrician with experience installing generators, please contact us here at Key Lime electric. We serve all of Salt Lake City, Murray, Sandy, Draper, Lehi, and as far away as Park City and Heber City Utah.
If you would like to talk about your power needs for a home backup generator install in Utah, please contact us by clicking the link below:
Or Call Us at The Following Number: 801-200-3202