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In today's world, electricity powers just about every device, machine, and appliance in our household. There is no one day that will pass when a typical household will not consume electricity. However, along with this fact is another truth: power outages are happening more often and are becoming longer. Increasing demand for power, urbanization, continuously growing population, and climate change are the major reasons for power disruptions that disrupt our lives and cause inconvenience.
Having a backup power source such as a whole house solar generator, can provide electricity during outages, ensuring essential appliances and devices continue to work and minimizing the disruption and inconvenience the blackout brings. Backup power sources are especially important for those who rely on electricity for medical equipment or other critical needs. By preventing food spoilage, protecting sensitive electronics, and maintaining a comfortable living environment during outages, backup power sources provide peace of mind and keep our lives running smoothly.
Whole House Solar Generator Explained
A reliable whole house solar generator is one of the best investments a homeowner can get for his home. Also known as a solar power backup system, a whole house solar generator is a self-contained power generation unit designed to provide backup electricity for an entire residence during grid outages. It typically comprises of three main components:
- Solar Panel Array: This array consists of multiple solar panels that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. The number of panels required depends on the size of the home and its energy consumption patterns.
- Battery Storage System: This system stores the DC electricity generated by the solar panels. The battery capacity determines the amount of backup power available during outages. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used for this type of system due to their long lifespan and high energy density.
- Inverter: This device converts the stored DC electricity into alternating current (AC) power, which is the standard form of electricity used in homes and appliances. The inverter's power output should match the home's peak energy demand during an outage.
Benefits of Having a Whole House Solar Generator at Home
Aside from the very obvious, to still have power at home when the grid shuts down for whatever reason, having a whole house solar generator provides numerous benefits that help you save money and save the planet too. Below are the many benefits of having a whole house solar generator at home.
Reduced electricity costs: whole house solar generators can help you save money on your electricity bill by reducing your dependence on the grid. By generating your own electricity, you can offset the amount of electricity you purchase from your utility company, leading to lower monthly bills.
Reduced Reliance on the Grid: Whole-house solar generators provide you with energy independence, allowing you to power your home even during grid outages or power disruptions. This can be particularly valuable in areas prone to frequent power cuts or extreme weather events.
Reliable Backup Power: In the event of a grid outage, a whole-house solar generator can provide essential backup power, ensuring continuous electricity supply for critical appliances, lighting, devices, and even medical equipment.
Environmental Protection: whole house solar generators are a clean and renewable energy source, which can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future. By generating electricity from the sun, you can significantly lower your reliance on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Potential Financial Incentives: Government and utility rebates or tax credits may be available to offset the initial cost of installing a whole house solar generator, making it a more attractive investment. Just bear in mind that different states have different solar incentive programs so make sure to consult with your local government office for guidance.
Learn more at: Guide to the Federal Solar Tax Credit
Increased property value: Installing a whole house solar generator can increase the value of your property. Potential homebuyers are often willing to pay a premium for homes with sustainable energy features, recognizing the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits.
Learn more at: Do Solar Panels Increase Home Value
Cost of a whole house Solar Generator
The cost of a whole house solar generator depends on several factors, including the size and capacity of the system, the type of solar panels and batteries used, and the complexity of the installation. In general, you can expect to pay as low as $2,000 to as much as $20,000 for a whole house solar generator.
When looking for options, you should bear in mind that the price of the generator is directly correlated to its power output and storage capacity. As the power output and storage capacity increase, expect to see a rise in the price as well.
Below are examples of whole house generators from Nature’s Generator, one of the trusted and leading solar generator brands in the country, in various sizes and capacities as well as different price points.
Nature’s Generator - Powerhouse
If you would like to know more information or would like to ask some questions about the products mentioned above, please feel free to get in touch with the Nature’s Generator team here.
Things to Consider when Choosing a Whole House Solar Generator
Buying a whole-house solar generator is a significant investment that can provide long-term benefits to the homeowner. To make an informed decision, you should carefully evaluate key factors to ensure the system of your choice meets your specific needs and expectations. Below are some important aspects to consider when buying a whole-house solar generator.
Size of Your Home: The size of your home will determine the size of the solar panel array and battery storage system that you need. A larger home will require a larger system to generate enough electricity to meet its energy demands.
Energy Needs: Your energy needs will determine the amount of power that your generator needs to be able to produce. Consider your typical energy consumption and identify which appliances or electronics you would want to prioritize during an outage.
Location and Solar Potential: The amount of sunlight your home receives will impact the efficiency of your solar panel array. Homes in sunny regions with minimal cloud cover will generate more electricity from their solar panels compared to those in less sunny areas.
Budget: Whole-house solar generators can range in price depending on the size, features, and brand. It is important to carefully consider your budget and compare different options to find a system that meets your needs and financial constraints.
Local Regulations and Solar Incentives: Check with your local government or utility company for any regulations or incentives related to solar power installations. Some areas may offer financial rebates or tax credits to encourage the adoption of solar energy.
Final Thoughts
A whole house solar generator is a great backup power source and it can even replace a significant amount of power that you generate from the grid. The cost that comes with this type of generator depends on several factors such as battery capacity and key features such as expandability and versatility just to name a few. Before buying a unit, it is important to take into consideration several factors such as the size of the house, power requirements, location, and of course, budget to ensure that you choose the correct whole house solar generator for you.
* We want to give credit where credit is due. Professional writer, Ann Matthew, contributed research and content to this blog titled: Whole House Solar Generator Cost Thank you, Ann, for your contributions!
