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Get The Facts

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FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions

What is an automatic standby generator?

An automatic standby generator is a back-up electrical system that operates whether you are at home or away. It automatically supplies power to  your home or business within 30 seconds of a utility failure. After utility power returns, the generator shuts itself off and awaits the next outage. It operates on natural gas or liquid propane and sits outside your house or business just like a central air conditioning unit.

Watch this short video on how a standby generator works.

Why should I buy and automatic generator instead of a portable?

While portable generators do supply power, the poor quality of the electricity can damage your sensitive electronics such as computers, laptops, and televisions. A professionally installed standby generator provides a level of reliability and safety unmatched by portable generators. Standby generators operate automatically as you weather the storm in safety. On the other hand, portable generators require constant attention, the use multiple extension cords, and frequent refueling, increasing the risk of hazardous fumes, fire, and electric shock.

During a utility power outage, an automatic standby generator provides numerous advantages over a portable generator:

  • The American Red Cross recommends permanently installed standby generators as a safer way to provide backup power to a home than a portable generator.

  • With an automatic standby generator properly installed outside, your home is protected from deadly carbon monoxide poisoning that is a much greater risk with portable generators.

  • Running on the home’s natural gas or LP fuel supply, it is less expensive to run than gasoline and does not need to be refilled.

  • They start automatically within seconds of a power outage, and eliminate the need to haul a portable generator outside or run extension cords throughout your home.

  • They provide protection 24/7, whether you're home or away, and they turn themselves off when utility power returns, so there is no need to monitor the unit during an outage



How do I size my generator?

The most logical way to determine your needs is to envision your home without power! Some outages may be short in duration, while others could last for days or weeks. What would you like your living conditions to be?

Assurance Power Systems takes the guesswork out of sizing with our GenSizer TM tool.  GenSizer allows you to determine what size generator meets your needs.  Our design professionals and sales associates use GenSizer to design your generator system and create load calculations and riser diagrams in accordance with the National Electric Code. 

There are many considerations when sizing your generator system and you should consult with a design professional from Assurance Power Systems before purchasing your system. 

Read Our Detailed Explanation of Generator Sizing Here.

Watch a tutorial on how to perform a load calculation using our GenSizer TM tool.

Enclosures

In addition to its sturdy galvanneal steel enclosure with RhinoCoat™, Generac is one of the few companies to offer premium aluminum enclosures for its residential standby generators. Aluminum enclosures are naturally rust and corrosion resistant. For salt air or high humidity conditions, aluminum is highly recommended to ensure decades of worry free service.

Here's an example of a steel generator installed in a harsh salt air climate - the enclosure is literally falling apart!  This is what happens when generators are not installed by professionals.  Assurance Power Systems ALWAYS considers the environment where a generator is to be installed ane makes the proper recommendations.


Rusty Generator

Air-Cooled vs. Liquid-Cooled


Air cooled generators come with engines that use fans to force air across the engine for cooling, while liquid cooled generators use enclosed radiator systems for cooling, similar to an automobile. Generally, liquid cooled engines are used on larger kW generators due to the larger engines required for the higher power output.


Do they have to be maintained?


Just like your car engine, generators need periodic oil and filter changes, as well as inspections and tune-ups. Assurance Power Systems' preventative maintenance agreements take care of all your maintenance and service needs.

Does it need to be professionally installed?

A professional installation ensures you will comply with all building codes and municipal ordinances. Standby generators produce high voltage electricity, and if improperly installed can result fire or electrical shock. Proper installation ensures an increased reliability factor assuring you that you will always have standby power when you need it most.

Lifespan

Because Generac engines were developed specifically for generators and designed to provide approximately 3,000 hours of use, with typical usage and proper maintenance an automatic standby generator can provide in excess of 30 years of service.

Example: Weekly exercise time (11 hours per year) plus four 20 hr. outages (80 hrs/year) equals 91 hours of operation per year OR over 30 years.

Can a standby generator replace my utility services?

No...the generator fuel costs would be much more expensive than buying power from the utility company since their cost to produce electricity is divided among thousands of customers.


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