HVAC systems regulate heat, airflow, ventilation, and air conditioning. That is why extreme weather conditions such as a blizzard or heatwave can cause power outages that could become such an inconvenience. To avoid this situation, invest in a whole-house standby generator that can power your system and appliances when an unfortunate outage occurs.
A reliable energy solution will keep you using the HVAC system and the appliances you need working 24/7, like your refrigerator or freezer and electronics such as cellphones. Standby generators can also be tailored to power-specific appliances or systems. Especially when the power outage is extended.
If you would like a standby whole-house generator to power your house and your HVAC system, get the help of professional providers of residential HVAC services in Rochester, NY. Set up your generators and find a well-grounded company for your HVAC needs.
What is a Standby Whole-House Generator
Like, any other generator, standby whole-house generators function as power backups. They are stationary, permanently installed by pros, and have insulated weatherproof housing that keeps them quiet. Compared to portable generators, standby generators are the standard. They automatically activate on the onset of a power interruption with 22kW to 40kW of energy, enough to power your entire household.
What is the Difference between Standby and Portable Generators
Standby and portable generators are two of the most common types of generators homeowners choose. While both keep the power flowing during a power outage, not both of these power backups can accommodate your needs. Here are the features of both generators listed for your reference.
Standby Generator
- Permanently installed.
- Automatically starts up during a power outage.
- Uses natural gas or liquid propane and does not need refueling.
- It can power lights, water heaters, refrigerators, and selected high-wattage appliances and systems.
Portable Generators
- Portable and requires proper storage.
- Manually started by a pull cord.
- Powered by gasoline and needs refueling.
- It can run items that are plugged into an extension cord and plugged into the generator.
Can a Whole-House Generator Run an HVAC System?
The answer is yes, it can, however size matters. Not every standby whole-house generator can handle the amount of electricity your home needs. You may get in touch with the provider of residential and commercial HVAC services in Rochester, NY to size up the generator enough to power your system.
Sizing Up Your Generator (Short Guide)
Stand by generators can power your house or property even for days. But how would you know if it is enough to run your HVAC system and your other electricity needs. First, check your unit’s energy guide label and list the starting and running wattage requirements. You may use the U.S. Department of Energy appliance calculator as guide as well. If the power requirement is in amps, covert to watts using (watt= amp x volt and kW= watt / 1000). Add all the required wattage you plan to power. The sum will be the general size of generator you should get.
If your main focus is to power up an HVAC system, then here’s a short cheat sheet for choosing the right size generator:
- 14 – 17 KW Generator
If you have a 30 Amp air conditioner (3 Ton or 36,000 BTUs), a 14 to 17 KW generator is a good option. This is commonly offered in average-sized homes as it can also run the lights and most appliances.
- 17 – 20 KW Generator
If you have a 40 Amp air conditioner (4 Ton or 48,000 BTUs), a 17 – 20 KW generator will be able to run it as well as your other devices and appliances.
- 20 KW Generator
If you have a 5 Amp air conditioner (5 Ton or 60,000 BTUs), a 20 KW generator or more will be able to run your HVAC unit as well as most of your appliances and devices.
- 20 – 50 KW Generator
This type of generator is regarded as a true whole-house generator. It can power every light, appliance, and device from average to large-sized houses. This is also used in small to large-sized businesses.
Sizing up your generator for your HVAC system and other household needs should still be done by professionals to minimize mistakes. Also, working with one company will help you save time in the whole process of summing wattages, selecting a generator and installation. For a consistent and quality service, reach us at Highland Services Now by calling 585-504-6563. We residential and commercial HVAC services in Rochester, NY. We can also help you out with standby whole house generator installations.