Sudden blackouts or power grid failures can disrupt daily comfort. However, with a standby generator, you can have a reliable source of backup power, quickly restoring your home to its normal state. Among the many generator brands available, one still stands out as a leader in quality and reliability: Generac.
While appearing simple on the surface, these powerful backup power sources keep your home running smoothly even in the worst of outside conditions. But how do Generac generators work? The expert electricians at Reliable Power Systems explain how these systems operate, as well as the various options available for homeowners to choose from.
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How Does a Generac Generator Operate?
A Generac generator operates outside of your home. These generators are operated by natural gas or liquid propane and are designed to supply backup power immediately when it’s disrupted, eliminating the setup process typically required by portable generators.
Top Components in a Generac Generator
The key players behind your generator are specific core components that make the operation effective and seamless:
- Engine and Alternator: Working together, these two components help generate backup electricity. The engine is powered by your fuel source, such as natural gas, which connects to the alternator, producing the same alternating electrical current as that of a typical residence.
- Automatic Transfer Switch: This is installed inside your home, connecting the generator to your main circuit breaker. This piece switches from normal utility power to generator power when signaled by a power outage or other form of disruption. Once power is restored, the switch senses it and returns to the utility.
- Generac Exercise Function: Your Generac needs exercise to stay in shape. The specified “exercise” function causes the system to run for a few minutes on either a specified day each week or a different day every week. This ensures the internal components operate as intended, including the engine.
System Activates When the Power Goes Out
You are probably asking, “With all those different parts, how long does it take for the generator to turn on?” When the components mentioned above are working as intended, the switch over to backup power takes a few seconds to make sure there is an actual outage.
Once a consistent power disruption is detected, the generator begins supplying full backup power within a few minutes, returning to normal as if nothing had happened.
Generator Run Time
Generac’s runtime can differ significantly depending on the fuel source being used.
With natural gas, your Generac generator can run uninterrupted as long as the gas supply remains uninterrupted. If you are powering the Generac with propane, the system runs consistently as long as you have enough fuel on hand.
For example, a fully supplied 500-gallon tank can provide moderate backup power for an entire home, running uninterrupted for around a week. However, this time can change drastically depending on the appliances you are powering and the type of tank you use to supply the Generac.
Read More: How Long Can a Generac Generator Run With Natural Gas or Propane?
Operational Noises
While not silent systems, Generac generators are designed to operate quietly. Typical standby generator noises include a ticking sound, mild clattering, or humming, which results in a noise level of approximately 66 decibels when 20 feet away from your home. In comparison, a central AC unit produces a noise level of 68 dB, while a standard vacuum cleaner can create a noise level between 70 and 80 dB.
Recommended Generac Generator Installation Locations
The ideal location for Generac generator places it as close as possible to the electric and gas meters. The area should be at least 18 inches away from your home, and it should be clear of any nearby windows, doors, or intake vents, as this allows the system’s exhaust gases to be properly vented. For a proper installation, ensure compliance with local regulations and obtain HOA approval, if applicable.
If using propane as your fuel supply, ensure there is sufficient space around the tank, gas meter, service panel, and the area where the generator and concrete pad will be located.
Choosing the Correct Size
Generators are not a one-size-fits-all type of system. The perfect generator will always depend on factors such as your home’s size or if you want whole-home backup power. Fortunately, Generac offers a convenient sizing calculator that allows homeowners to input their specific power requirements and find the ideal model.
While tools like this are great, a professional opinion can provide you with even better guidance. A certified electrician provides in-depth inspections to understand your home and narrow down your options, helping you meet your needs.
Popular Generac Generator Lines for Homes
Generac has been a leading name in generators for over 60 years, providing homes across South Florida with reliable backup power. Their award-winning generators have expanded to a wide range of types, ranging from 800 watts to 9 megawatts. No matter your power needs, there’s a Generac solution for you.
Guardian Series Generators
Designed with the specialized G-Force engine, the Generac Guardian series generators provide homeowners with enhanced backup power, requiring less maintenance. The sturdy, all-aluminum enclosures are supported by RhinoCoat power-coat finish, providing the necessary durability to combat Florida’s climate.
Keeping tabs on your generator has never been easier, thanks to the Guardian Series’ Mobile Link Remote Monitoring. This function enables users to monitor the condition of their Generac device seamlessly from a PC, tablet, or smartphone.
Paired with a multilingual LCD, users can find information such as battery condition in just a few presses. Backed with a 5-year limited warranty, the Guardian series makes those sudden outages a thing of the past.
EcoGen Series Generators
The first standby generator to function off-grid with alternative energy systems. Generac EcoGen series generators feature various components, including a durable enclosure that withstands weather, a longer lifespan, and even oil recovery and circulation systems that can operate for up to 500 hours before requiring maintenance.
Centurion Series Generators
When your primary concern is having an always-reliable generator, the Generac Centurion series is your ideal choice.
Designed with a premium, specialized engine, the Centurion produces high-quality backup power while maintaining its quality through regular testing of internal components. No matter the severity of the power outage, the Centurion series has your back.
QuietSource Series Generators
Designed for quiet operation, the QuietSource series offers enhanced Generac power with less noise pollution.
The core engine features a liquid-cooled automotive design, which produces lower RPMs, resulting in a significantly quieter operation without compromising adequate backup power.
Protector Series Generators
Whether it’s your home or business, Generac Protector series generators help keep your property running smoothly. Whatever your specific needs may be, these generators come with both preconfigured Code Ready options and other accessories to help you stay compliant with local regulations.
There’s no need to worry about the size of the load, as the Protector’s Isochoronus governor control allows for an ideal response and speed regulation, perfect for larger homes and businesses.
Professional Generac Generator Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Services
Need reliable backup power? Our team of electricians offer reputable Generac generator repair services in South Florida. We also provide extensive generator installation services and are available to help you replace your old system.
As a certified Generac dealer, our expertise extends beyond installation and repair. We provide both routine generator maintenance and repair services, ensuring your system is operating at peak performance for the next outage.
From Generac installation, maintenance, or repair, Reliable Power Systems is the expert team that helps keep the lights on. We offer trustworthy generator installation services in Fort Lauderdale along with other areas including Boca Raton, Naples, Delray Beach, Wellington, and Stuart. Give our staff a call at (561) 408-5147 to receive assistance.
