Which Is Better for Home Backup Power?

Preparing for a possible power outage is one eventuality you will need to prepare for as a homeowner. During severe weather or a shortage of power supply in the grid servicing your neighborhood, you will need to make sure every essential appliance is up and running to provide comfort and security to your family. You can’t control the flow of power to your home, so the best you can do is invest in backup power.

At this point, you will have to choose between solar or gas-run generators. These types are the most common on the market for backup generators, but knowing which is best for your home requires careful research. In this article, we’ll be looking into the differences between solar and gas-powered generators so you will know what to get when you’re ready to shop around.

Everyone is familiar with using solar panels as an alternative power source, but it’s only in recent years that homeowners have gotten incentives and other advantages for installing them. For one, governments are offering buyback credits for households that have invested in solar panels. 

The Benefits

Solar generators are becoming more accessible to the general public as interest in sustainable living has picked up in recent years. They require less maintenance and they help reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Currently, there are solar power generation systems that can energize even larger appliances and facilities, including air conditioning units. You also have the option to add more energy storage to increase your home’s backup capacity.

The Tradeoff

The one downside of using solar panels, however, is the expensive initial costs of installing the system itself. There’s also the fact that this option is difficult to install as you will need ample rooftop space for the panels to rest on.

Gas generators run on fossil fuels, so this might not be the best choice if you’re conscious about your carbon footprint. Nevertheless, you might find a gas generator more practical and reliable since it involves a more straightforward installation process. Depending on the generator you have, you could use propane, natural gas, or even diesel fuel to light up your home during emergency outages. 

The Benefits

The best advantage that gas generators have over solar-powered ones is the amount of energy they produce. Through a solar system, you will need more panels and energy storage to run appliances that consume too much energy. You won’t face the same problem with a gas generator that can help deliver power to your appliances. 

The Tradeoff

Then again, you will be consuming more fuel if you turn on too many electrical devices. You may have to consider stocking up on extra fuel supply in case of lengthy blackouts or else you will find yourself braving a blizzard for gas. 

That won’t be your only problem. Gas generators are also vulnerable to regular wear and tear, so you will have to replace worn-out parts and have the unit serviced at least once a year. Other than that, there’s also the risk of toxic emissions produced by the unit. You will need to place it as far away from any indoor entrances as possible.

When it comes to choosing a proper power-generating option for your home, consider your preferences and your immediate needs. A traditional gas generator would be a better option if you have no problem purchasing now and then. However, if a sustainable lifestyle is your goal and you may not have too many appliances to use, go for a solar generator. Either way, you will always be ready in case the lights suddenly go out.