Emergency generators can help you prepare for unexpected power outages from snow or ice, wind, storms, or natural disasters. Preventing you from losing heat or AC, lights, cooking appliances, the internet, water, medical equipment, and more.
Having backup power allows you to function in your home when the power grid is down for hours or days at a time and prevent financial loss to your business or even keep you open.
There are many reasons to install an emergency power source. If you are looking for a backup generator installer in Midland Ontario or anywhere in North Simcoe, read this article for our top recommended generator service providers. Choose a trusted and reputable company to install the equipment you rely on in an emergency.
Whether you are looking for backup power for your home or business, you have options. Do you go with a portable generator or standby generator? What size will best suit your needs? Find out everything you need below. When it comes to powering your home or business uninterruptedly, we’ve got you covered.
Different Types of Generators Available
You can purchase a few different types of generators, including portable or standby, inverter, towable or you can go with an UPS system. They also come in different sizes to suit your requirements. Let’s make it easy for you to decide on the best back up generator for your needs.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are versatile and can be moved around as needed. They are typically powered by gasoline, diesel, or propane and provide temporary power during emergencies or outdoor activities.
Portable generators are ideal for powering essential appliances, like your fridge, or small areas of a home or business and keeping your cell phone charged.
These units typically provide 3kW to 10kW of power and have power outlets so you can plug extension cords or appliances into them. Gas powered portable generators will run continuously for 6-16 hours, while propane powered units can run up to 200 hours at a time or approximately 8 days.
Pros
- Cost effective – range from $500-$3000
- Portable (take it camping, to outdoor events, the cottage, etc.)
- Will power essentials in an emergency
- Newer models have a built-in shut off sensor if CO reaches dangerous levels
Cons
- Noisy, has to be outside because of exhaust and heat
- Limited use – they won’t power your whole house and will run out of fuel
- Manual start – push start buttons or pull cord starts that could be harder to use for some individuals
Standby/Backup Generators
Standby generators or whole house generators are permanently installed outside your home or office and connected directly to the electrical system.
These generators are designed to automatically provide backup power when an outage occurs. So you are never without electricity.
Backup generators run on propane or natural gas and can sustain power for an extended period. They are particularly beneficial for larger homes, businesses, or facilities requiring continuous power supply, like hospitals.
Pros
- Convenient – they turn on automatically so you are never without power even when you’re not home
- Power your whole house or business
- Run for days or weeks without refuelling
- Reliable units
- Increase the value of your home
Cons
- More costly than portable and require installation and maintenance fees
- Take up space in your yard
- Can be noisy although less than portable units
- Will require occasional maintenance
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are a type of portable generator known for their quiet operation and more stable power output.
They are suitable for sensitive electronics like computers because they have cleaner power and are more efficient, using less fuel. Inverter generators actually throttle the engine to meet the power needs instead of just running on full power until they run out of gas.
However they do cost more compared to traditional portable generators and they don’t last as long or power as much as a standby generator. They still risk carbon monoxide poisoning and should only be used outside at a distance from your home.
Solar Generator
Solar generators are portable units that come with solar panels that convert the sun’s energy into DC power for your generator. It has solar battery, a power inverter so you can use the solar energy, and a charge controller. It’s a great option for camping when you’re far from accessing fuel.
Towable Diesel Generator
This type of generator is designed to connect to your vehicle and travel with you wherever you need backup power. This would be great for a construction site, a cottage completely off-grid, when you need power for a larger outdoor event,
A towable generator lasts a lot longer and has more power than a portable generator but are understandably a lot more expensive.
Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) Systems
UPS systems provide backup power to protect valuable equipment and avoid data loss during brief outages or brownouts. They are sometimes called a battery backup.
They act as a bridge between the main power supply and sensitive equipment, assuring a seamless transition during an interruption.
UPS systems are often used in computer networks, data centers, laboratories, medical facilities, and facilities requiring uninterrupted electrical supply. They are only meant as a short-term backup power solution, unlike generators and last around 10-15 minutes.
Connect with a Professional Generator Service
With such a large purchase, especially for whole house generators, you will want professional expertise, experience and knowledge. In Midland Ontario, there are reputable companies offering comprehensive installation and set-up services for generators.
These services include assessing power needs, helping you to select the appropriate generator, handling all aspects of installation, and providing custom solutions. Professional technicians ensure efficient and reliable operation of the generator through thorough testing and instruction on safe usage. Their expertise delivers peace of mind during unexpected power interruptions.
Having an effective emergency backup power will keep you safe and comfortable during long periods without electricity or heat. There are a number of options to suit your specific needs, budget, and space. Connect with a professional service today, so you’re not left in the dark.