Generators have a way of becoming household heroes when the weather acts up, or the electrical grid goes down. They bring back the lighting, revive the refrigerator, and let you power up those electronics when everything else is off. Still, a lot of folks carry around some outdated ideas about what these machines can and can’t do.
Andreas Plumbing is here to clear the air and give you a more realistic look at the most common generator myths and why they’re incorrect. We’re generator installation experts, and we’re committed to keeping your family safe and comfortable during every outage. We also offer a wide range of other HVAC and plumbing services, making us your one-stop shop for all of your home needs.
If you still have questions about standby generators after reading this, do not hesitate to contact us. We’re standing by to provide you with honest answers and personalized recommendations.
Myth 1: Generators Don’t Need Regular Maintenance
This myth tops our list because it causes the most headaches for homeowners. Your generator isn’t some magical machine that sits dormant for months and then springs to life perfectly when the electrical grid fails. Just like your car needs oil changes and tune-ups, generators require routine maintenance to function properly when you need them most. The diesel engine components need lubrication, filters need replacement, and fuel systems need attention to prevent costly breakdowns. Skipping maintenance turns your investment into an expensive lawn ornament that won’t start during the next power outage.
Myth 2: Any Electrician Can Install a Generator
Generator installation requires specialized knowledge that goes beyond basic electrical work. Installing a standby generator involves complex connections to your home’s electrical panel, proper transfer switch installation, and understanding local building codes that vary significantly between municipalities.
The wrong wiring can damage your electronics, create safety hazards, or even prevent your generator from working when you need it most. Professional generator technicians like us understand the intricacies of power supply systems, fuel connections, and safety protocols that general electricians might overlook.
Myth 3: Portable Generators Are Just as Good as Standby Generators
Portable units certainly have their place, but they serve completely different purposes than standby generators. Portable electric generators require manual setup every time you lose power, which means stumbling around in the dark during storms to drag out equipment and connect extension cords.
Standby generators automatically detect power outages and switch on within seconds, keeping your refrigerator running and your lighting systems operational without any effort on your part. The convenience factor alone makes standby units worth considering, especially for families with medical equipment or elderly residents who can’t safely operate portable equipment during emergencies.
Myth 4: Generators Are Only Useful During Hurricanes or Major Storms
Many people associate the need for a generator with dramatic weather events, like hurricanes or severe winter storms. While they are certainly invaluable during those times, the reality is that the electrical grid can be surprisingly fragile. Power outages can happen for a multitude of reasons, from a car accident involving a utility pole to a squirrel deciding to explore a transformer.
Having a backup power source means you’re prepared for any unexpected interruption, regardless of the weather. It provides peace of mind, knowing your daily life won’t be upended by a sudden loss of energy.
Myth 5: Whole-House Generators Are Too Expensive for Average Homeowners
The idea that a whole-house generator is a luxury reserved for the wealthy is a persistent myth. Although it is certainly an investment, the cost has become much more accessible over the years, and financing options are often available.
When you consider the potential costs of a prolonged power outage — spoiled food, a flooded basement because the sump pump failed, or even the expense of a hotel room — a generator can quickly pay for itself. It’s about weighing the upfront cost against the security and convenience it provides for your family and the protection of your home.
Myth 6: Diesel Is Always the Best Fuel for Standby Generators
Diesel generators certainly have advantages, but they’re not automatically the best choice for every situation. Natural gas generators connect directly to your existing gas line, eliminating fuel storage concerns and providing unlimited runtime during extended outages. Propane generators offer clean burning and long-term fuel storage capabilities that diesel fuel simply can’t match.
Your location, local fuel availability, and specific power needs should determine your fuel choice rather than assumptions about diesel superiority. Each fuel type has benefits and drawbacks that professional installers can explain based on your particular circumstances.
Myth 7: Generators Run Quietly and Can Be Placed Anywhere
Even the quietest units come with some noise. Between the diesel engine or gasoline motor and the sound of internal components working hard, there’s always some hum involved. Even though technology has made modern electric generators far more neighborhood-friendly, you still need to think about placement.
Keeping a unit too close to windows, sleeping areas, or neighbors can create unwanted noise during long outages. An experienced installer can help position the generator where sound is less noticeable but power delivery stays strong.
Myth 8: Generators Can Run Indefinitely During an Outage
A standby generator is a fantastic tool for getting through a power outage, but it’s not a miniature power plant that can run forever without a break. Just like any engine, it requires periods of rest and, depending on the fuel source, will eventually need refueling.
Most generators are designed to run for extended periods, sometimes for days, but they do have their limits. The duration a generator can run continuously depends on the model, the load it’s carrying, and the type of fuel it uses.
Myth 9: All Generators Can Power Everything in the Home
Generator capacity varies dramatically, and many homeowners discover too late that their unit can’t handle their full electrical load. A typical home requires careful calculation of watt requirements for appliances, lighting, cooling and heating systems, and other electrical devices you want to operate during outages. Your refrigerator, air conditioner, sump pump, and other necessities each draw specific amounts of power that must fit within your generator’s capacity.
Professional assessment helps determine the right size generator for your needs, preventing overloading that can damage both your generator and connected appliances.
Myth 10: DIY Generator Setup Is Easy With Online Tutorials
There’s no shortage of videos showing how to install a generator, connect a transfer switch, and plug into your breaker panel. But when something goes wrong, repairs can be expensive — and dangerous. A generator ties directly into your home’s power supply, which means incorrect wiring can damage appliances, fry electronics, or worse, create a fire hazard.
Licensed professionals have the experience to match fuel lines, install carbon monoxide-safe exhaust paths, and wire everything up to code. It’s one project that deserves real expertise.
Schedule Your Generator Installation Today!
Feeling more informed about the world of home generators? We hope so. The truth is that a standby generator can be a fantastic addition to your home, offering security and uninterrupted comfort. It’s an investment in your family’s well-being and the protection of your property.
If you’re tired of being left in the dark, give Andreas Plumbing a call. Our experienced team can answer all your questions and help you find the perfect backup power solution for your home.