Keep the power running in your home.
Get year-round protection with standby generator installation.
With increasingly unpredictable weather and storms during all months of the year in New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania, more and more homeowners are experiencing unexpected and inconvenient power outages. One of the most common questions we get here at Princeton Air is: “Are standby generators worth it for a home in our area?”
Finding standby or backup generator installation near you from a company like Princeton Air provides peace of mind that no matter what weather or season, your home and family will be protected against outages, including:
- Loss of heating and cooling
- Spoiled food in your freezer or fridge
- Lack of electricity and ability to charge phones and appliances
- Frozen pipes during winter months
- Personal safety issues during extreme weather events
How Do Backup Generators for Power Outages Work?
Generators come in a variety of sizes and models. Smaller models in the 8-14 kW range are often used as partial backup generators to keep the essentials running in your home during an outage, like your heating and cooling, lighting, and other smaller appliances. But Princeton Air offers a number of larger models that can effectively be used as whole house generators during an outage as well.
Backup generators run on a variety of fuel sources, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas, and you can continue running your backup generator as long as the power outage lasts.
Because the backup generators that Princeton Air installs are connected to an automatic transfer switch, there’s no need for you to manually turn your generator on in the event of an outage—the system will automatically detect when your grid power goes down and turn your generator on to keep your home running.
Can Backup Generators Be Used Year-Round?
In central New Jersey’s Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset counties, as well as Bucks County in southeastern Pennsylvania, most homeowners associate backup generators with winter storms, when a loss of power and heat can freeze pipes. It’s always best to try and avoid allowing temperatures to plunge to lows that pose safety problems for you and your family.
But a loss of power is an inconvenience during any month of the year, and blackouts during summer heat waves or storms can be just as unpleasant or even dangerous for your family’s health and safety. As power outages become more common and frequent, you’ll want the peace of mind that a standby generator brings not just during the winter, but during spring, summer, and fall as well.
Comparing Portable Generators vs. Whole Home Standby Generators
Portable generators might seem at first glance to be attractive options for New Jersey and Pennsylvania homeowners—especially because of their lower price. But they come with a number of drawbacks that make whole home standby generators the better choice for homeowners who want to know they’ll be protected during the next storm or outage, including:
- Louder operating noise
- Manual refueling
- No 24/7 guarantee against prolonged outages
How Much Does a Standby Generator Cost?
The cost of a standby generator can vary depending on its size, capacity, and installation requirements. On average, the price for a generator and professional installation ranges from $5,000 to $12,000 or more for larger, whole-house models. Maintenance costs, including routine tune-ups and inspections, typically run between $150 and $300 annually, ensuring your generator remains reliable when you need it most.
Additionally, fuel expenses will depend on the generator's usage and type of fuel—propane, natural gas, diesel, or gasoline. For instance, natural gas is often the most cost-effective and convenient option for long-term use in areas like New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Princeton Air’s experts can provide you with a detailed estimate tailored to your home’s specific needs.
What Is the Lifespan of a Standby Generator?
With proper maintenance, a standby generator can last between 15 and 20 years, making it a long-term investment in your home’s comfort and safety. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and system checks, is crucial for extending the life of your generator. By investing in routine care, you can maximize your generator’s lifespan and ensure it’s always ready to power your home during unexpected outages.
Princeton Air Backup Generator Installation
Princeton Air offers Kohler generator installation, generator repair, and home generator maintenance services and plans that can ensure that your home generator remains in good condition to protect your home the next time bad weather turns the lights out in your home.
By enrolling in Princeton Air’s Generator Club, you’ll receive:
- Two annual maintenance tune-ups
- 24/7 priority service
- Discounts on repairs
- And more!
Protect your home and family in NJ and PA during the next power outage. Call 609-785-3039 or contact us today for a free standby generator installation estimate from Princeton Air.
FAQ Section
How quickly does a standby generator activate during an outage?
Standby generators typically activate within 10 to 30 seconds after detecting a power outage. The automatic transfer switch seamlessly shifts your home’s electrical load to the generator, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily activities.
Are there tax credits or rebates for generator installations?
Yes, certain generator installations may qualify for tax credits or utility rebates, especially when paired with energy-efficient upgrades or renewable energy systems. Princeton Air can help you explore available incentives in New Jersey and Pennsylvania to offset installation costs.
How loud are standby generators?
Standby generators are generally quieter than portable models, with sound levels ranging from 60 to 70 decibels—comparable to a central air conditioning unit. Many modern generators, including Kohler models installed by Princeton Air, feature noise-reducing enclosures for quieter operation.
Can a generator power my entire home?
Yes, a whole-house generator can power your entire home, including heating and cooling systems, appliances, and lighting. Smaller models can provide partial backup, covering essentials like refrigerators, HVAC systems, and key outlets. Princeton Air offers a range of generator sizes to match your specific needs.
JS Needham-Master HVACR Lic. # 3980 | M Burt-Plumbing Lic. # 8389 | NJHIC # 13VH00255200 | PAHIC # PA001066
