In some locations, power outages are a real threat to families and businesses. Here's when a Generac standby generator is at its best.

More than 91,000 Virginians lost power due to Hurricane Ian. Unfortunately, hurricanes and other severe weather are a fact of life. You don't need to be stuck in the dark.

A Generac standby generator has the reliable emergency power you need. Generac is an industry leader for good reason.

Learn more about Generac standby generators and how they can help protect your home or business.

Portable Generator vs. Standby Generator

The two main types of generators are portable and standby. Either type can provide backup power for your home or business. A standby generator has several advantages over a portable generator, though.

Portable Generator

A portable generator isn't permanently installed. You can move it around. When the power goes out, you'll need to bring the portable generator to where you need it and manually turn it on.

If you install a transfer switch, a portable generator can connect directly to the circuit breaker panel in your home or business. Otherwise, you'll need an extension cord.

Most portable generators run on gasoline. You need to store large quantities of fuel to run the generator through an extended power outage.

Portable generators have some extra safety considerations. Gasoline for the generator needs secure storage.

The generator must be at least 10 feet from your home or business. This reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Standby Generator

A standby generator can also be called a backup or whole-house generator. It's permanently installed and remains stationary. A Generac standby generator is large enough to power your home or business.

Standby generators turn on automatically during a power outage or brownout. They're connected directly to your electrical system through a transfer switch.

They run on natural gas or liquid propane. They tie into your gas or propane line. A Generac standby generator can run for weeks if necessary.

Standby generators are much quieter than portable ones. They have insulation and weatherproof housing.

Why Choose a Generac Standby Generator?

Generac has specialized in designing and manufacturing generators since 1959. They're the top manufacturer of home backup generators. Generac generators and engines are engineered and built in the US.

The company has a reputation for quality, reliability, and excellent performance.

Generac also works to minimize the environmental impact of backup energy systems. Their manufacturing processes use fewer materials and have lower emissions. They're constantly innovating to develop more efficient generators.

You know you're getting a good value and an excellent return on your investment with a Generac standby generator. You can count on Generac to keep your lights on.

Benefits of a Generac Standby Generator

Installing a Generac standby generator has many benefits for your home or business. You gain peace of mind. You know that your essential appliances will continue to work when the power grid fails.

Rapid and Automatic Redistribution of Power

You never know when your home or business will lose power. A standby generator automatically comes on when a power outage strikes. The generator senses the loss of grid power and will typically start running in 30 seconds or less.

This fast action helps ensure you don't lose the use of your essential home appliances or business functions. You don't need to turn on the emergency power system manually. The standby generator will protect your property even when you're not there.

Adds Value to Your Property

A Generac standby generator adds value to your property.

You can recoup more than half of the cost of the generator when you sell your home. A generator is a significant selling point in areas prone to power outages. For example, having a generator in rural areas and places that experience severe weather is especially beneficial for resale value.

A potential buyer for your business property will expect the assurance that a standby generator provides. Not having one puts you at a disadvantage.

Lowers Your Insurance Rate

Installing a Generac standby generator can lower your homeowners' insurance rate. A backup generator reduces your risk of property damage.

For example, your sump pump will continue to work. Your home will stay warm or cool inside. In the winter, this can protect your pipes from freezing.

Emergency power from a generator will keep your security system operating. The lights will stay on, which deters potential thieves or vandals.

Choose the Amount of Power You Need

Generac understands that a business places different demands on a generator than a residential user. Business owners can choose from a complete line of commercial and industrial generators. Homeowners have dedicated residential models.

Generac standby generators are available in several sizes. You can choose the right size for your home or business. You don't have to pay for capacity you won't use.

How to Choose the Right Size Generac Standby Generator

To choose the right size generator, you need to know how much power you need. Homeowners should first list all the appliances they want the generator to run. Then, you can calculate the total wattage you'll need.

Business owners also need to consider their total power needs. Other considerations include whether you need single- or three-phase power and the size of your facility.

Generac provides an online calculator to help you determine the right standby generator for your situation. A Generac dealer will work with you to ensure you get the right backup power generator.

Finding the Right Generac Dealer

A Generac standby generator will provide reliable emergency power for your home or business. A standby generator starts automatically within seconds of a utility power outage. It can run for weeks if necessary.

Vancelectric is your trusted Generac dealer in Springfield, VA. We've been serving Northern Virginia since 1998. We specialize in installing and servicing residential and commercial Generac standby generators.

Vancelectric is a PowerPro Elite Generac dealer. We're committed to giving you an outstanding sales and service experience.

Contact us today to schedule a free assessment. We look forward to helping you choose the best emergency power solution for your home or business.

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How Generac Generators Keep Your Home Running

By Vance Electric • February 28, 2025

Is there anything as disruptive as a power outage? Whether there's an issue with the power grid or a powerful storm, a blackout can prevent you from enjoying the comfort of your home and adversely affect your work. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that about one in four American households experience a power outage annually. Acquiring a Generac generator is a necessity if you want to avoid the inconvenience caused by an outage. Standby generators automatically detect outages, ensuring you don't sit in the dark or have the food in your freezer go bad. Let's explore Generac generators and why you need one in your home. How Generac Generators Work Installing a Generac standby generator ensures your home has backup power whenever necessary. The main types of generators are standby and portable. Generac generators function in the following ways: Detecting Power Outages These generators can come with a transfer switch that automatically monitors the flow of electricity in your home. When there is a power outage, the generator kicks in, supplying power to your home. A home Generac generator doesn't need you to connect any cables or physically switch it on. It will automatically supply your house with electricity, ensuring your appliances keep running. Continuous Running and Automatic Shutdown As a new generator owner , you'll realize that Generac generators run continuously as long as the power outage lasts. The generators are specifically designed to handle long run times and provide power for an extended period. They automatically shut down when the grid comes back on and go back to standby mode, acting as a reliable energy solution for future outages. Benefits of a Generac Generator Owning a Generac generator offers more benefits than just a continuous power supply. These generators can start running when the lights go out in under 30 seconds. The automatic function means you don't have to be home to turn it on. So, you will not incur any losses as your business or home will continue running smoothly. A Generac generator also adds value to your property and can help you get a high resale price if you decide to sell. Having a Generac generator can also reduce your homeowners' insurance premiums . Here are a few tips to extend your generator's life and optimize its benefits: Make preventive repairs Regularly inspect the battery Exercise the generator Test and replace the fuel Features of Generac Generators The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that Americans experienced about five and a half hours of power interruptions in 2022. Unexpected power outages can result in heavy financial losses resulting from missed work and perishable goods going bad . These features of Generac generators enhance their reliability and efficiency: User-friendly control features All-weather features Fuel efficiency and durability Smart monitoring with some generators having features such as Wi-Fi Further, modern generators minimize sound output, reducing noise pollution in your house. Talking with one of the best Generac dealers in Springfield can help you understand the features of any unit prior to the purchase. Generac generators run on liquid propane or natural gas; you don't need to refuel them since they will connect directly to your house's fuel line. This feature also makes them less expensive to maintain than generators that run on gas. How Long Do Generac Generators Run As a business or homeowner, nothing comes close to the disruption of a power outage. Although weather conditions are the leading cause of outages, the power grid can go down for various reasons. Consequently, having a standby or home generator guarantees continuous, uninterrupted power. They don't run on gasoline, meaning you don't have to continually refuel them when the power grid is off for a prolonged period. The main factors that determine how long a Generac generator will last include: The generator model The load capacity Fuel type Natural gas generators, such as Generac generators, can last indefinitely. The continuous gas supply from your home's fuel line keeps the generator running as long as necessary. However, portable generators may not run continuously as standby models. One of the reasons to buy a Generac standby generator is that it can run 24/7 regardless of weather conditions. Maintenance Tips for Generac Generators Generator maintenance is necessary for smooth, continuous running when you need backup energy. One of the first maintenance tips you should follow is to get maintenance service from a reputable commercial dealer . But how can you know that a company has a good reputation? Some of the indicators of a great dealer are: Great online reviews from previous customers Level of experience Certifications and qualifications of individual vendors Referrals and level of customer service The maintenance needs of generators will vary depending on the type or model. A Generac vendor can help you understand the warning signs your generator needs maintenance. However, you shouldn't wait for visible signs to appear before getting your generators regularly serviced. Some of the signs your generator needs maintenance work include: Low power output Difficulty starting Fluid leakage Strange noise and faulty parts Age is another sign that your generator needs maintenance. Like other machines, generators experience wear and tear, so it's only normal that they'll need greater maintenance as they get older. Who Needs Generac Generators According to the Climate Central Organization, power outages are more common across the United States. The main reason behind this is the changing climate, which caused approximately 83% of all power outages from 2000 to 2021. Getting a Generac generator is a priority for any homeowner or businessman. You need to understand that there are different types of generators , such as: Backup generators Portable generators Standby generators Industrial generators Choose a generator that can meet your needs. Backup generators are ideal if you experience short-term blackouts, whereas standby generators are better suited if you need a continuous power supply . Keep Your Home Running With Generac Generators Today Generac generators are the best bet if you want an uninterrupted power supply for your home or business. A standby generator can run for weeks and even months if necessary. Vancelectric has experience dating back to 1998, and we've gained a reputation built on providing high-quality Generac generators . We also offer installation and maintenance services to keep your unit running smoothly. Check out our website today to see all our energy solutions.