HOW TO CHOOSE A BACKUP GENERATOR FOR YOU HOME?

By Gogopower

Gogopower is here to help you select the right generator for you. The right generator means that it is the correct sizing for your needs - to help generate power when there is a black-out or an emergency.

Australians have been facing a tough time at the time we're writing this in 2020... including blackouts, bushfires and now the pandemic COVID-19. Exceptional circumstances can happen anytime. And something as essential as your home's energy cannot be risked.

Therefore, it's essential to be prepared in advance and have a plan for backup energy.

To choose the right generator to meet your requirements, the following need to be considered:

1. Assess Your Power Needs

Identify Essential Appliances and Systems: Make a list of the appliances and systems you want to keep running during a power outage (e.g., refrigerator, heating/cooling system, lights, medical equipment).

Calculate Total Wattage: Determine the total wattage required by these essential items. You can find this information in the user manuals or on the labels of the appliances.

Consider Future Needs: Think about any future additions or upgrades to your home that might increase your power needs.

2. Choose the Type of Generator

Fuel Type: Decide between gasoline, propane, natural gas, or diesel. Each fuel type has its pros and cons in terms of availability, cost, and storage.

Power Output: Ensure the generator can handle the total wattage you calculated. It's often recommended to choose a generator with a slightly higher capacity than your calculated needs to accommodate any unexpected power surges.

Professional Installation: For standby generators, hire a licensed electrician to handle the installation. This ensures safety and compliance with local codes and regulations.

Location: Choose a suitable location for the generator, keeping in mind safety and ventilation requirements. It should be placed away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, which typically includes regular oil changes, battery checks, and testing. This ensures the generator will function properly when needed.

By following these steps, you can choose a backup generator that meets your needs and ensures your home remains powered during an outage.

 The above method approximates identify your overall load. It is always advisable to get your load assessed by a qualified electrician who can than provide you with a comprehensive report.

 You can than provided this report to Gogopower team and based on the report they will provide you with a diesel generator that will meet your power requirements.

 Knowing the electrical load is recommended before getting a diesel generator because this will avoid underloading and overloading of the diesel generator.

Otherwise, getting an oversized or undersized diesel generator can deteriorates the life of the engine. In case you are not familiar with any electrician nearby, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We will try to assist you with arranging and finding a local electrician to get your load assessed which might incur additional cost depending on the location.

You always have the option to connect your equipment via switchboard to diesel generator as our generators are equipped with live hot terminal.

However, if required, sockets can be configured on the diesel generator to obtain power directly without connecting to the switchboard.   

 Gogopower also recommends for you to have clear set of instructions from your local council or relevant authorities when considering a diesel generator for you home.

Different states have different rules and regulations for a diesel generator regarding its size, DB volume and the location where it is required to be placed.

In case of any uncertainty, please contact Gogopower Sales team and they can support you with your enquiries.

 Request a quote from us

For more information about our products or to request a quote, please call us on 1300 975 078/1800 959 143 or visit our website at www.gogopower.com.au