Choosing the right generator for your home in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, can make a big difference when the power goes out. Generators are essential during hurricanes and outages, providing a way to keep your home powered and safe. Picking the correct size can be a bit tricky, but by understanding your power needs and the types of generators available, you can make an informed choice. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to find the right generator size for your home.
Why Generator Size Matters
The size of your generator determines how much power it can provide during an outage. If you get a generator that’s too small, it may overload, which can damage your appliances and shorten the generator’s lifespan. On the other hand, a generator that’s too large will be more expensive, both in initial cost and in fuel usage. Finding the right size means you’ll have enough power for your essential appliances without wasting fuel or money.
Understanding Your Power Needs
The best way to choose the right generator is to list out the appliances and systems you need during an outage and calculate their total power requirements. Below is a simple table that includes the most common essentials:
Generator Power Needs for Common Household Items
| Essential Item | Starting Watts | Running Watts | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator/Freezer | 1,200 | 200 | Keeps food from spoiling. |
| Lights (per room) | 100 | 100 | Basic lighting in main areas like kitchen and bathroom. |
| Heating System (Furnace) | 1,500 | 750 | Keeps home warm in colder months. |
| Air Conditioning Unit | 2,200–4,000 | 1,000–1,500 | Essential in Myrtle Beach’s hot, humid climate. |
| Sump Pump | 2,150 | 1,050 | Helps prevent flooding. |
| Electric Water Heater | 4,500 | 4,500 | Provides hot water for bathing and cleaning. |
| Wi-Fi Router | 20 | 20 | Keeps you connected during an outage. |
| Medical Equipment | 500–2,000 | Varies | Important if you have medical devices like oxygen concentrators. |
| Television | 400 | 400 | For staying informed and entertained. |
| Garage Door Opener | 1,500 | 500 | Allows you to safely access your home. |
Add up the starting and running watts of all the items you consider essential. Your generator should be able to handle the total starting wattage at once. For instance, if your refrigerator, lights, and heating system add up to 5,000 starting watts, a generator rated at or above 5,000 watts should cover those essentials.
Types of Generators
There are different types of generators to consider, each with advantages for specific needs.
- Portable Generators: These are budget-friendly and can power a few essentials. They run on gasoline and need refilling, so they’re more practical for shorter outages. Portable generators are loud but offer good value if you only need a small amount of power.
- Standby Generators: These generators are installed outside your home and turn on automatically during an outage. They’re more powerful and run on natural gas or propane, making them ideal for long outages. Standby generators are a reliable option if you want continuous power.
- Inverter Generators: These generators are portable, quiet, and fuel-efficient but don’t provide as much power as standby units. They’re ideal for smaller loads and shorter outages, or for powering specific devices like lights, routers, and TVs.
Fuel Types for Generators
Different fuel types affect how your generator runs and how convenient it is during an outage:
- Gasoline: Used in most portable generators, but it requires safe storage and regular refueling.
- Propane: Cleaner and can be stored easily, making it ideal for standby generators.
- Natural Gas: Available in homes with a gas line, which means you won’t run out during long outages.
For Myrtle Beach, propane or natural gas generators work well due to their availability and ability to withstand the elements. Propane, in particular, is a good choice because it’s stable and stores easily.
Coastal Climate Considerations
Myrtle Beach’s coastal climate means salt air, high humidity, and frequent storms, all of which can affect your generator. To protect your investment:
- Choose a corrosion-resistant model: Generators made for coastal areas are built with protective coatings that prevent rust.
- Regular maintenance: Keep your generator in top shape by scheduling routine maintenance, especially before hurricane season.
- Use a weatherproof cover: This protects the generator from rain, salt, and debris, extending its lifespan.
By taking these steps, you’ll get the most out of your generator, keeping it ready for emergencies.
Using a Transfer Switch
A transfer switch is a device that connects your generator to your home’s electrical panel. This switch allows your generator to power multiple circuits safely and efficiently. Without a transfer switch, connecting a generator directly to your home’s wiring is not only unsafe but illegal in most areas.
A licensed electrician should install the transfer switch to ensure it’s done correctly. This will also prevent “backfeeding,” which is when power flows back into the utility lines, putting utility workers at risk.
Budgeting for a Generators
The cost of a generator depends on its type, size, and installation requirements. Here’s a general cost breakdown:
- Portable Generators: Range from $500 to $1,500. Great for powering essentials for a short period.
- Standby Generators: Typically cost between $3,000 and $8,000, including installation. Standby generators can power large portions of your home and are more convenient for long outages.
- Transfer Switch: An additional cost, typically between $500 and $1,000, is required for safe generator use in your home.
Also, factor in maintenance and fuel costs, especially if you live in an area like Myrtle Beach, where humidity and salt air can increase wear on equipment. Regular servicing and cleaning will keep your generator running longer.
Key Questions to Consider
1. Can I power my whole house with a generator?
Yes, but this requires a large standby generator, typically around 20–30 kilowatts, to power an entire home, including heating, cooling, and appliances.
2. How long will my generator last?
This depends on its fuel type and size. A generator running on natural gas can operate continuously as long as there’s a fuel supply. Portable generators have limited runtime, usually 8–12 hours on a full tank.
3. Do I need a permit to install a generator in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, a permit is usually required for standby generators, especially if they connect to your home’s electrical system. Check with local authorities or consult a professional installer.
4. Will my generator run my air conditioning unit?
Air conditioning units require a significant amount of power. Make sure your generator’s wattage is enough to cover the A/C’s startup and running watts.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right generator size for your Myrtle Beach home ensures you’re prepared when an outage hits. By knowing what essentials to power, selecting a generator type, and choosing the best fuel, you’ll be able to keep your home comfortable and safe during a power outage.
