What Is a Whole-House Generator?
A whole-house generator, also known as a standby generator, is a permanent backup power system that automatically supplies electricity to your home during a power outage. Unlike portable generators that require manual setup and refueling, a standby unit is installed outside your home, similar to an air conditioning unit, and is connected directly to your home's electrical panel and fuel supply. For homeowners in Western Pennsylvania, where storms can lead to unexpected power disruptions, a whole-house generator provides peace of mind and uninterrupted comfort.
How Do Standby Generators Differ from Portable Ones?
While both types of generators provide backup power, their functionality and convenience differ significantly. Portable generators are smaller, less expensive, and can be moved around, but they have lower power output and require you to manually start them, run extension cords, and refuel them, often in inclement weather. Standby generators are a more robust, long-term solution.
Key differences include:
- Automatic Operation: Standby generators turn on automatically within seconds of a power outage, so your home is protected even when you're not there.
- Power Output: A whole-house unit can power your entire home, including central air conditioning, heating, refrigerators, and other large appliances, whereas portable units can only handle a few essential items.
- Fuel Source: Standby generators are connected to your home's natural gas line or a large propane tank, providing a continuous fuel supply for extended run times.
- Installation: A whole-house generator is permanently installed and integrated with your electrical system by a licensed electrician, ensuring safety and compliance with local codes.
The Heart of the System: The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The magic of a standby generator is the automatic transfer switch (ATS). This device is the brain of the system, constantly monitoring the power coming from the utility, like Duquesne Light. When it detects a power interruption, the ATS automatically disconnects your home from the utility grid and connects it to the generator. Once utility power is restored, the ATS switches you back to the grid and shuts down the generator. This seamless transition ensures your home’s electrical system is never connected to both the grid and the generator at the same time, which is a critical safety feature.
Fueling Your Generator: Natural Gas vs. Propane
Most standby generators in the Pittsburgh area run on either natural gas or liquid propane. Natural gas is often the preferred choice for its convenience, as it provides a continuous fuel supply directly from your utility line, meaning you never have to worry about refueling. Many homes in neighborhoods like Shadyside and Mt. Lebanon have existing natural gas lines, making this a straightforward option. If natural gas is not available, a large propane tank can be installed on your property to fuel the generator.
Sizing a Generator for Your Home
Choosing the right size generator is crucial. Sizing is not about the square footage of your home but about the electrical load you want to manage during an outage. You can choose to back up only essential circuits—like your furnace, refrigerator, and a few lights—or you can opt for a larger generator that can power your entire home, including air conditioning and entertainment systems. A typical home in the South Hills might require a 16-22 kilowatt (kW) generator for whole-house coverage.
A licensed electrician is required to perform a proper load calculation to ensure your generator is sized correctly and safely for your home's needs. This is not a DIY project.
The Installation Process in Allegheny County
Installing a whole-house generator is a professional job that involves electrical and plumbing work. The process typically includes obtaining an electrical permit from Allegheny County, preparing a concrete or gravel pad for the unit, running the fuel line, and installing the automatic transfer switch. A qualified electrician will handle all aspects of the installation, including the final inspection, to ensure it meets all Pennsylvania state and local electrical codes.
