Most power outages don’t last that long. However, for residents in South Florida, severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes, can cause prolonged blackouts that last from hours to days.
If your power is interrupted, you may be wondering how long your Generac generator can run to maintain electricity in your home. We have broken down the run times of Generac generators as well as the various factors that could affect your system’s run time.
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Generator Run Times
If your Generac is well-maintained and properly repaired, its run time is directly tied to the fuel it supplies.
As long as you can consistently supply fuel, your Generac generator can run indefinitely. A Generac system is connected to natural gas lines and can run non-stop as long as the gas is being constantly delivered. The only time the supply would stop is if your gas lines are blocked by debris, preventing the natural gas from flowing.
When fueled by propane, a non-stop Generac run time is harder to get, but not impossible. Storage tanks for generators typically range in size from 250 to 1,000 gallons. On average, homes use only around 2 to 3 gallons per hour, allowing a Generac with a small 250-gallon tank to keep a home powered for around a week.
Portable and Standby Systems
When shopping around for a Generac generator, you most likely noticed that they come in two varieties: portable and standby. A portable Generac is a transportable system that, although much more compact in design, supplies adequate backup power for homes in South Florida. They require manual fueling when operating, making their run times significantly shorter.
To contrast this, Generac standby generators are connected directly to a primary fuel supply, such as your natural gas line or a fixed source, like a propane tank.
As mentioned earlier, with uninterrupted supply from natural gas lines, your Generac can run continuously. Propane tanks may need to be refilled eventually, but the large sizes of these tanks can supply power for much longer periods compared to portable types.
Read More: How Does a Generac Backup Generator Operate?
Wattage
Wattage requirements also impact how long a Generac generator can run. Typically, homes in South Florida use around 30 kWh each day, or approximately 900 kWh per month. Common items in a home use different wattages. For example, electronics like flat-screen TVs only use around 50 to 130 W. Bigger appliances, such as microwaves, require 950 to 1750 W.
Standby generators can provide around 5,500 W, so if you are looking to keep your big appliances running during an outage, your runtime will be shorter if you have a limited fuel supply. For those with a natural gas connection, you won’t have to worry about a shorter run-time, but keep in mind not to push your system past its max power output, as it can drastically reduce the system’s lifespan.
Factors Impacting Generator Run Time
Whether it’s a natural gas connection or supplied by a propane tank, a Generac standby generator is designed to run for extended periods. If you’re using your Generac for longer operational periods, you’ll want to consider the following factors that may affect your run-time:
Environment
The higher humidity and scorching temperatures of South Florida, especially during the summer, can cause your system to consume fuel more quickly and potentially overheat when running for extended periods.
System Maintenance
Ensure your generator receives proper maintenance before and after use, including checking connections and oil levels to ensure the system is ready for use. Maintenance can be complex, so it’s always best to work with a local generator installation company for assistance with safe system upkeep.
Fuel Levels
Run time depends on having sufficient fuel levels, especially when using your Generac generator at full capacity. If using propane, your tank will need to be refilled when the fuel level gets low, or your Generac will be left unable to supply power.
Other Factors
Utilizing natural gas for more extended periods can increase strain on the supply grid, thereby reducing the available fuel supply. For Generac’s use of propane, having multiple high-demand appliances connected can risk limiting the available fuel supply, which is necessary to keep the generator running.
Generac Generator Replacement and Repair Services for Homes and Businesses
Is your Generac generator ready for continuous use during a prolonged power outage? If you need assistance, our team of expert electricians offers reputable generator repair services in Miami, Florida and the surrounding areas.
Keep your home or business comfortable by contacting the skilled electricians at Reliable Power Systems. Our team is committed to offering convenient Generac generator installation and repair services designed to help you keep your power on.
Already have a Generac? Our team keeps it running at its best with comprehensive maintenance checks that inspect and tune your current system, ensuring it operates optimally in the event of an extended blackout. Contact our team at (561) 408-5147 to receive assistance.
