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If a power storm hits New York or you undergo routine utility work, what happens when your appliances, HVAC, and electronics go down? Investing in a reliable generator for your home can significantly impact your comfort and safety, rather than leaving you struggling to survive. Power outages also don’t have to disrupt your day-to-day life with the right generator in place. The question isn’t whether or not to buy a generator, but which one to choose. 

The team at Ryan Electrical Service is always here to help you select your generator, install it, maintain it, and repair it over the years to make the most of your investment. We also have all the information you need to choose a home and backup power system.

Step 1: Assess Your Power Needs

The first step in choosing the right generator for your home is figuring out how much power you really need during an outage. If you want to power up essential appliances like your refrigerator, furnace, and a few lights, you may only need a portable option. Or you may need a whole-home generator that can run everything like normal, including your HVAC system.

Our New York electricians at Ryan Electrical Services recommend listing all of your essential appliances and systems you want to keep powered up during an outage. Remember to consider if anyone in your household needs to power up medical equipment or keep their medication cold.

Your list will help you create a baseline to calculate the wattage required to keep your home functional. Depending on what you came up with, a whole-home standby generator might be your best option for large power needs, while portable generators can suffice for smaller setups.

Step 2: Decide Between Standby and Portable Generators

There are two main types of generators: standby and portable, each designed for different situations:

• Standby Generators: These powerful generators are permanently installed outside of your home and will automatically kick on during a power outage without missing a beat. They’re ideal for homeowners who have frequent outages, have medical needs, or simply want uninterrupted power for their entire home.
• Portable Generators: These types of smaller, less expensive generators are a good choice for temporary or occasional use. However, they require manual setup and may not be convenient to transport and connect during emergencies or harsh weather conditions.

If you’re not sure which generator is the best choice for your home, we’re here to help. Our electricians can walk you through the pros and cons of each option, including costs and preferences, to find the best one for you.

Step 3: Consider Your Fuel Source Options

Keep in mind that generators run on different fuel types, including natural gas, propane, and gasoline. Standby generators usually rely on natural gas or propane, while portable models usually need gasoline. Here’s a look at the differences between fuel types:

• Natural Gas: Choosing natural gas is convenient if your home already has a gas line. You already have an unlimited fuel supply that’s easy for your generator to tap into. However, if your natural gas line goes down, so does your generator.

• Propane: Selecting a generator that runs on propane provides a clean-burning option but requires a separate storage tank.
• Gasoline: You can easily find gasoline just about anywhere, but it does require proper storage and regular refills.

The generator experts at Ryan Electrical Services can help you determine which fuel source is most practical and cost-effective for your home.

Step 4: Consider Installation and Maintenance

Beyond choosing the right generator, you also need to think about installation and maintenance needs. Installing a standby generator requires a professional New York electrician. You probably also need a Pearl River electrical panel upgrade or adjustment to make sure you don’t put a strain on your electrical system and can keep everything running. 

Beyond installation needs and costs, there’s also regular maintenance to consider. Just like your HVAC or appliances, routine generator maintenance keeps your unit in peak working order. We offer all of the generator services you need to make sure your generator is ready to go when you need it the most. 

Step 5: Choose a Trusted Generator Brand

Investing in a generator is a big decision, and you want to make every dollar count. Rest assured, Ryan Electrical Services only works with the top manufacturers and suppliers to provide our customers with reliable, long-lasting generators. We’re always here to guide you toward a generator that meets your budget, energy needs, and preferences.

Ready to Power Up Your Home with Ryan Electrical Services?

Don’t wait until the next storm to think about your backup power needs. The electricians at Ryan Electrical Services are always here to explore your generator options and schedule a consultation. We’ll help keep your home safe, comfortable, and connected—no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. Schedule your appointment today!