(NAPSA)—There are a number of things to consider when deciding what backup power solution will work best for your home. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice when selecting a standby generator. 1) Who Makes It?—Be aware of the company’s reputation and leadership in the generator category. It helps to choose a brand that is solely focused on genera- tors to ensure you are getting a quality product from a trusted company. 2) Exterior Shell—Be sure the external enclosure, or casing, of the generator has easy access for servicing. Hinged enclosures are best. Choose a generator with a rust-resistant shell, ensuring longerlife of the generator. 3) Sound Levels—Consider the sound decibel of the generator to ensure your generator won’t wake your family at night or interrupt your favorite television program. Most reputable standby generators will sound similar to an air-conditioning compres- sor...or even quieter. 4) Engine Basics/Sizing—Just like a car, the generator’s engine is its heart. Smaller-size generators use air-cooled engines while larger ones use liquid-cooled engines with separate cooling systems. Look for engines built for heavy-duty generator usage and not adapted from other products. The better engines have longer service intervals, requiring oil changes after every 200 hours of service or longer. Beware of the electrical load your generator says it can handle. Do your math! Be sure the power of the generator matches the power needed to back up the circuits and appliances in the home you want to back up. Customizable solutions should alwaysbe an option. 5) Warranty—A quality generator company will always offer warranty flexibility that fits best with your needs and budget. GENER Gua, The best generators today are homeowner friendly and should work just as easily as a normal kitchen appliance. 6) Transfer Switches—These devices transfer your home’s electrical load from the utility line to the generator in the event ofa power outage. They should be matched correctly to the generator size and the amountof electrical load you expect the generator to back up, and they need to comply with local electrical building codes. 7) True, Clean Power—All generators create harmonic dis- tortion, which can interfere with sensitive electronic equipment like plasma televisions and computers. The best generators produce less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion. 8) Dealer Network—Awelltrained and well-qualified dealer is important not only when youfirst purchase and install the generator but for years afterward for routine maintenance and service. Make sure the dealer you choose is very familiar with standby generators and hasanelectrical background. For more than 50 years, Gen- erac has been in the business of making generators for both homes and businesses. To find the right generator to meet your needs, visit www.Generac.com and take advantage of the user-friendly sizing tool.
