Whether you are a home or commercial property owner, generators are an important asset that can help keep your space comfortable and running—and up to code—during a power outage. At Raynor Services, we understand that there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the perfect generator for you and your home/business, and we want to make the decision process as easy for you as possible. Here are key factors to consider when purchasing a generator:

Power Requirements – While your budget may be a factor in making this decision, you must also decide if you want it to power an entire building or just emergency loads during a power outage. Also, consider factors such as the peak demands during summer and winter months, and the amperage for your electrical service.

Fuel Type – The most common fuels are natural gas, propane, and diesel; factors to consider are cost, availability, and local code requirements.

Location – Generators are located where they can be easily accessed for maintenance and repairs, near the transfer switch and fuel supply, and up high enough to prevent water from reaching it.

Voltage Requirements – In the U.S., the common low voltages are: 120/240 volts for single phase, 120/208 volts for three phase, 120/240 volts for three phase, and 277/480 volts for three phase.

Transfer Switch – For home generators, your Raynor technician will determine the transfer switch of your generator based on what you’re planning to use it for (IE entire home or emergency load); for businesses, you can choose to add on features, such as bypass isolation, closed transition, and programmed transition.

Maintenance – To ensure your generator is effective when you need it to be, it is crucial to have it on a consistent maintenance schedule with a Raynor Services technician.