Generators figure prominently in discussions about emergency preparedness.
Home or standby generator
Prices hover about $6,000 for the unit. Installation costs range from $500 to $5,000 depending on size, complexity, location and materials.
If, the question of need
When looking to the past, one could say we’ve only had three days of no power in the last ten years. (Insert your own personal experience.) So why buy a generator, especially a costly home or standby unit?
However, when contemplating the future, the question becomes more complex and speculative. Agreed, no one knows the future. That makes it more difficult when evaluating the outlay of thousands of dollars about a possible disaster.
Based only on the past, however, few would feel the pressing need to buy a standby generator in Greenville, S.C. But who knows the full reach of global warming? Does Helene teach us anything about the unpredictability of future hurricanes, their ferocity, power, reach and duration?
So buying a home generator is a very personal and vexing decision, based on several factors. But we have reliable facts to mix with the uncertain odds as we weigh the decision about future storm preparedness.
A more affordable option, however, can provide a hedge against future outages while not breaking the bank. The generator’s power drives the price. One suggested power rivets at 8,000 watts. If the power is much lower than that, you risk inadequate performance. Prices can range from $700 to $1,400, depending on variables.
Happy shopping. I welcome your experiences, observations and ideas. Write me at sources@whatsupnews.online.
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