Date: Fri, 10 Jan 2020 09:28:54 -0500
From: tonyblake
Subject: Generator recommendation for home
Hopefully this is opinion is helpful.
I recommend a permanent installation with a genset that automatically “exercises” itself weekly. It does not need to be “whole house” but with a properly sized transfer switch can be installed to load shed and run the essential things in a house.
IMO the convenience of having a generator “wake up” and exercise itself once a week and automatically turn on and off with the availability of power from the street is well worth extra cost. We have a 15 year old Generac (I have expected it to die, but it is still running strong). It is essentially a motorcycle engine that runs on propane. I just change the oil spring an fall and I have changed the plugs once and the battery twice. It has a locking enclosure and we consider it low maintenance and reliable. Most HVAC companies will provide a turnkey install.
If you are a DiY type, our local fire department also has had great experience buying military surplus diesel generators, but they are big and some folks find them ugly.
Like any small engine, per use generators fail to start many times due to lack of maintenance. Forgetting to disconnect the main can cause personnel hazards. Setting them up in the cold or darkness can lead to dangerous human error.
As always, never run a small engine in an enclosed space because carbon monoxide will kill.