While most blackouts only last a short while, prolonged power outages can leave you without electricity for much longer than expected. When extended electrical outages happen, it’s important to know how long you can expect your Generac generator to work, so you can keep your essential systems running when you need them.

In this blog post, the electrical experts at A.B. May explain how long you can rely on your Generac generator for adequate power during an extended blackout.

The Importance of Proper Generator Maintenance

The best way to ensure your Generac generator is prepared to meet your power needs during an unexpected outage is by keeping up with regular maintenance.

Like most home appliances, generators require routine tune-ups to stay in proper working condition. Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule for your generator can help you prevent premature wear and tear that can negatively impact run times.

Part of proper generator maintenance involves replacing the oil in your system once for every 50 hours of use. So, for instance, if you needed your generator to run for more than two days straight, you’d need to shut it down every 24 to 48 hours to let it cool and add more oil. 

Portable vs. Standby Generators

Different types of generators are designed to support different levels of use. In general, homeowners have two main types of generators to choose from: portable generators and standby generators.

Portable Generators

A portable generator is typically reserved for temporary use, such as for camping; however, these systems can also be used for backup power in homes and businesses.

While most portable generators have a 24-hour tank, some systems are available in 48-hour and 72-hour tank capacities. The tank size is what determines the total length of time your generator can run.

Standby Generators

Whole-home standby generators are hardwired to your property and automatically activate when a blackout occurs. A standby Generac generator can either be hooked up to natural gas lines or powered by liquid propane.

These systems typically burn through 2 to 3 gallons of fuel per hour; however, with tanks ranging from 250–1,000 gallons, you can easily run your system for anywhere from three to 20 days straight, depending on system usage.

Wattage Considerations To Keep in Mind

It’s important to understand how the wattage of each device you intend to power through your generator will ultimately impact its performance. The more high-wattage electrical devices you power with your generator, the less time it will run on a finite fuel supply.

Keeping wattage in mind is also important for ensuring you don’t exceed the unit’s maximum power output. That’s why it’s best to avoid using multiple high-wattage appliances simultaneously during a blackout.

Examples of appliances that typically have higher wattages include microwaves, ovens, refrigerators, air conditioners, vacuum cleaners, and coffee machines.

Install a Generac Generator in Your Home Today

Want to avoid the next power outage in Kansas City with help from a whole-home generator? A.B. May has the highly trained electricians you need to ensure reliable power, no matter how long the next blackout lasts.

Offering top-quality Generac generator systems and plenty of financing options to suit virtually any budget, our team is uniquely capable of ensuring your home always has access to the reliable power supply it needs.

Schedule Generac generator installation in Kansas City by contacting our team today.