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Generators

Posted on April 20, 2022 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Factory Trained & Certified Dealers & Installers

Need Help Choosing the right generator?

When it comes to choosing a home standby generator, you have a ton of options. In our Battle of the Standby Generator Guide, we’re taking a look at three of the top brands of home generators, comparing similar models side-by-side to help you find a partial or full-home generator for your needs.

No More Lights Out

BREAKING NEWS: Another hurricane. As a Florida resident, this comes as no surprise.

Even if it’s not a full blown hurricane, storms touch down on our coastline state quite often. Fallen branches cut power lines, speedy drivers hydroplane into poles— and suddenly— your power’s out. Again.

Regardless of if it’s your home or your business, as a SWFL resident, you need a generator for everyday reassurance.

What’s unclear is fine details. You’re unsure of how much voltage your space requires, if you should get a generator that runs on natural gas or propane or what the best brands are for the best price.

Or, maybe you’re here for maintenance. If your generator is huffing, rattling or not firing up come storm time, you’re in the dark. Both literally and figuratively!

You’ve got questions, our electricians have solutions.

Your Friendly Neighborhood KOHLER, Generac, & Cummins Dealers

Don’t waste your time researching dozens of brands of generators. Some big names stand apart for their superior reviews and performance— such as our favorite manufacturers: Generac and KOHLER.

These brands are our preferred providers for their years of reliability and praise, and we’re ready to turn you into a believer.

Here at Southwest Florida Electric, we’re proud to be fully authorized Generac and KOHLER service dealers. Meaning, we not only sell these trusted brands, but we are certified to assist you with servicing them— from replacing an old part to a routine check-up.

You get a generator from us, we’re going to make sure it’s ready when you need the most. That’s a promise.

Our Generator Services

We serve the greater Fort Myers and Naples areas and all of Lee County— and no job is too big or too small.

Our certified electricians specialize in all things generator, including installation and repair of both residential and commercial power supplies.

Standby or portable. Partial-home or office-wide power. Electric or gas. You name it, we’ve got you covered.

Still not convinced? Explore what makes our team at SWFL Electric different than any other generator supplier or fixer-upper in southwest Florida.

Need help choosing or fixing a generator? Fill out the form below or give us a call at (239) 745-5020. We’ll make sure your power stays on, for 24/7 preparation.

Specialized in all forms of generator installation, including:

Electric Generators
Gas Generators
Home Generators
Standby Generators
Automatic Power Generators
Emergency Back-Up Batteries
Whole-Home Generators
Partial Home Generators
Commercial Generators

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What brand is best?

A: Sometimes, the brand of generator you choose just comes down to a personal preference based on the engine, the appearance of the generator itself, what size you need based on your housing situation, and ultimately, your familiarity with the brand. We are factory authorized for Generac, Kohler, and Cummins, all of which have their own merits.

Q: How long does installation take?

A: Every installation is different. There are so many factors involved, such as HOA approval, permitting, utility company availability. Right now, in particular, product availability is a large factor.

Q: Do you offer maintenance contracts?

A: Absolutely!

Q: For propane generators, how long will a tank of gas last? How long will my generator run after a storm?

A: This depends on size, but on average, an air-cooled generator will run for 5 days or so on a full 500-gallon tank.

Q: Can you turn your generator off during a storm?

A: Yes, but you need to follow this specific procedure to ensure this is completed safely:

Go to the main electrical panel and shut off all individual breakers to reduce the load on the generator. Let it run for 3-5 minutes to allow the motor to cool off.
Once the motor is cool, open the generator and locate the Auto / On / Off button and switch the generator to Off.
Check fluids and gas to see if you’d like to make any adjustments.
Turn generator back On and close all compartments you had opened. Turn the Auto / On / Off button back to Auto. If you still do not have utility power, your generator will turn on.
Once generator is running, go back to your main electrical panel and switch all individual breakers back on.

Q: How do you add oil to your generator during an outage?

A: Follow this specific procedure to ensure this is completed safely:

Go to the main electrical panel and shut off all individual breakers to reduce the load on the generator. Let it run for 3-5 minutes to allow the motor to cool off.
Once the motor is cool, open the generator and locate the Auto / On / Off button and switch the generator to Off.
Locate the oil dipstick and pull it out to wipe it off with a clean towel.
Put the dipstick back into the oil for 2-3 seconds and pull it back out, keeping the end towards the ground, to locate the oil level.
With the generator manufacturer’s recommended oil brand, add oil as needed. Once full, place dipstick back in.
Close all compartments you had opened. Turn the Auto / On / Off button back to Auto. If you still do not have utility power, your generator will turn on.
Once generator is running, go back to your main electrical panel and switch all individual breakers back on.

Why Your Southwest Florida Home Needs a Standby Generator

Posted on September 20, 2021 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

As a resident of Southwest Florida, you understand that hurricanes are a fact of life. And you know that hurricanes will possibly result in power outages that can last for hours, if not days—or even weeks! You know that you need to stock up on water, food, and batteries when the hurricane is coming, but what about a generator?

The benefits of a standby generator are significant. Don’t believe us? Let’s look at the ways that owning a portable or standby generator impacted one homeowner’s hurricane experience to help you decide what kind of generator you might need.

Joe’s Standby Generator Story

Let’s call our real-life homeowner Joe.

Joe and his family are Florida natives, and they understand the kind of damage that a hurricane can wreak. They had to evacuate to avoid living in the dark during Hurricane Andrew in 1992, and they weren’t eager to repeat the experience any time soon. After Andrew, Joe asked himself, “What generator do I need?”. Rather than being forced to leave their home the next time a hurricane was spotted near Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral or any other community in Southwest Florida, they decided to invest in a backup generator.

Sure enough, a hurricane hit their home in Cape Coral—and it was a doozy. The storm was intense, and the city’s power was out for a whole week! While most of Joe’s neighbors were evacuated, Joe was able to stay in his home. Why? Because he chose to install a backup generator! “What kind of generator should I get?” was the question at the forefront of Joe’s mind, and the top of his to-do list. So he took action to find the generator that was right for his home and family before a storm hit again.

With Joe’s backup generator, the family stayed comfortable in their own space. They had lights, sure, but there’s a lot more that a backup generator can power when a hurricane shuts down the city. Deciding between a permanently installed standby generator and a smaller generator is important, and “Should I get a portable or standby generator?” is an important question that warrants some serious research.

With either choice, you get big benefits. Most refrigerators are powered by electricity; Joe could rest easy knowing that the food he’d purchased before the hurricane hit would not be spoiled, costing him hundreds of dollars in wasted groceries. Their electric stove was up and running, so the family could enjoy a hot meal in their home.

Joe’s home has an electric water heater, so with a portable or standby generator, Joe and his family had hot showers. Joe’s electric washer and dryer were functioning, thanks to the generator, so they were able to do their laundry without dragging everything to the laundromat.

Bonus? Joe’s kids were able to keep their electronics charged, so he was able to relax without hearing complaints about boredom as they waited for school to be in session again. By seriously taking the time to ask, “What kind of generator do I need?” Joe was able to care for and protect his family better, during a very difficult time in his region.

The Standby Generator Difference

Backup generators come in a number of sizes and can be fueled by natural gas, diesel, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). But how do you know how much power you’ll need?

“What generator do I need?” is already an obvious question, but the size of your choice matters a lot too. This calculation is an easy matter of creating a list of the appliances you want to power during the outage. Next, determine the amount of power required to start and run each appliance, and then total the numbers to determine the wattage you’ll need from your generator.

Typically, a home will need between 5,000 and 7,000 watts to maintain essential functions; with this in mind, it’s smart to choose a standby generator, which is rated to offer you anywhere between 10,000 to 20,000 watts of electricity. You will be able to carry on normally without fear of exhausting the generator’s limits.

When thinking about a portable or standby generator, consider the benefits a standby generator has to offer:

Your standby generator will start automatically.
You’ll have more convenience from your standby generator.
You’ll have more safety from your standby generator.
You’ll get long-term power for your entire home.
You’ll have higher wattage and can operate more things.
You won’t have as much maintenance to perform.

The benefits of a standby generator shouldn’t be ignored. When deciding what kind of generator you need, the next consideration should be, “Should I get a portable or standby generator?”

There are important considerations when comparing a standby vs backup generator, but it’s generally better to have more coverage and the ability to operate the systems and appliances in your home. You’ll get that with a standby generator much more easily than with a backup generator.

Operating your lights, refrigerator, and air conditioning all at the same time, for example, provides a lot of value when asking what kind of generator you need. In short, you need one that’s going to help you stay safe, clean, and comfortable during an extended power outage. Most portable generators won’t handle that very well, but a backup generator will.

What Kind of Generator Should I Get, Really?

Southwest Florida Electric is happy to help you determine what size of generator would be best to keep your home up and running during a storm, and we’ll help you with the regular maintenance that will ensure that your generator will be ready to run when you most need it. Still asking, “What kind of generator do I need?” You can compare options and sizes to find what works for you.

Kick off your search with your very own Free Generator Comparison Guide! Then you can choose the right standby generator for your home with confidence.

At Southwest Florida Electric, we proudly serve customers in the greater Fort Myers and Naples areas, as well as all areas between Sanibel Island and Marco Island. Whether you’re looking to power your whole home or if you just need partial home backup, we have the generator that fits your unique needs. Don’t wait to install a backup or standby generator— you might find yourself sitting in the dark.

Kohler vs. Generac Generators: How their Portable & Home Standbys Stack Up

Posted on June 17, 2021 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

When making your hurricane preparedness plan this year, you may be considering adding a generator to your list.

But which brand should you choose? And is a portable generator or permanently installed home standby generator better for you?

Today, we’ll compare two of the most popular options: Kohler vs. Generac generators.

Comparison #1: Engine

Generac Generators:

Can run on either gasoline or LP fuel.

Kohler Generators:

Requires a conversion kit to run on other fuels aside from gasoline.
With the Tri-Fuel conversion kit, they can run on gasoline, LP, or propane.
Has been making engines for almost 40 years more than Generac, but both are quality choices.

What they have in common:

Both manufacture portable and permanently installed home backup generators as well as their own custom engines, built to last and engineered to work well in a variety of environments.

Comparison #2: Warranty

Generac Generators:

Generac offers a 3-year warranty on its standalone generators and a 2-year warranty on its portable products.
Parts, labor, and limited travel typically have a 1 or 2-year warranty, and parts only carry a 3-year warranty.
For a 4 or 5-year warranty, only the USA and Canada are covered, and only for major parts components.

Kohler Generators:

Kohler offers a 2,000 hour or 5-year warranty on its standalone products, and a 3-year warranty on its portable models.
The warranty on its gasoline pumps for portable products is 1 year or 2 years, depending on the specific pump, and 90 days if the pump is for professional/rental use.
The GEN series warranty is also 90 days when for rental or professional use, as opposed to 3 years for residential use.

What they have in common:

Both Kohler and Generac offer strong warranties on their generators, and that includes the standalone generators and the portable models, as well.

Comparison #3: Housing Enclosures

Generac Generators:

Generac offers one lower priced home backup generator with a powder-coated steel enclosure
Corrosion-resistant powder-coated aluminum enclosures are offered for the rest of their line.

Kohler Generators:

Kohler encloses some of their lower-priced home backup generator models with powder-coated aluminum or steel.
Their mid-range and up generators have a more corrosion-resistant composite enclosure.

What they have in common:

A generator is only as good as its housing— it protects the unit from the elements and keeps animals and children out. Fortunately, both generators offer quality housings.

Comparison #4: Environmental Impact

Generac Generators:

Generac generators feature their special “G-Flex” technology, allowing the generator to work according to your energy demands, saving energy.
With Generac, the consideration from the company is more about whether they should be providing diesel or natural gas options, and which of those options are going to be the better choice for the environment and the customers.
Generac is ready for that, so it can help protect the environment while still providing standby power.

Kohler Generators:

Kohler’s entry-level portable generator is CARB compliant, meaning it meets even California’s strict carbon emissions standards.
Kohler has addressed this issue in the past and understands the impact that larger, diesel generators have on the environment.
However, the company is also aware that there are ways to mitigate the impact, by handling the installation and use of the generator correctly.
Proper venting of exhaust gases, correct cooling to reduce heat transfer, and other factors are all important when having a Kohler generator installed.

What they have in common:

As mentioned earlier, both Generac and Kohler have flexible fuel options, allowing you to use cleaner fuel choices like LP and natural gas.

Both Kohler and Generac have an environmental impact, and for those who are environmentally conscious, this is worth considering when deciding which one to buy.

Diesel is typically more expensive to use over time than natural gas, and natural gas is also often easier on the environment.

Comparison #5: Noise Level

Generac Generators:

Generac’s mid-range home backup generator rings in at about 66dB, about as loud as a lawnmower running a few houses down, or about as loud as your air conditioner’s condenser.
Generac’s home backup generators also feature a quiet-test mode – a routine weekly test cycle that runs at ⅔ its normal operating RPM keeping the noise level very low during the test, to the sound level of an idling car.

Kohler Generators:

While Kohler doesn’t provide decibel ratings on their generators, they do state that their mid-range model operates at a sound level similar to an air conditioner condenser.

What they have in common:

Both Generac and Kohler generators have a reputation for being quiet.

The portable models tend to be a bit louder than their standalone, permanently installed relatives, around 73-75 dB— roughly as loud as a garbage disposal or kitchen blender.

Home backup generators tend to be significantly quieter as a whole.

Made a Decision About Your Generator? Let Us Help!

Both Kohler and Generac offer well-built, high-quality generators that will provide your family with peace of mind when the power fails.

Let Southwest FL Electric help you choose the model that is right for your home and needs. Contact us today!

7 Reasons Florida Homeowners Love Generac Generators

Posted on April 14, 2021 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

As a southwest Florida homeowner, if you don’t already have a backup generator, you’re most likely in the market for one. Most people can’t afford to go hours— sometimes days— without power, every time a storm hits.

If you aren’t sold on a particular brand, let us tell you why we think Generac is the best choice for your home.

Here are seven reasons Generac backup and portable generators are hot sellers in the Sunshine State and beyond:

1. Generac generators have been around since 1959.

Believed to be the largest maker of home standby generators since 1959, Generac has built a solid reputation for top-quality, powerful generators. After 60+ years of manufacturing power sources, they must be doing something right!

Actually, Generac’s long-standing reputation is one of the reasons that their “generators are preferred by 7 out of every 10 homeowners who invest in home backup power,” according to their website.

2. Generac generators have powerful engines.

Generac’s G-Force Engine is pressure-lubricated and durable, often recognized as the most reliable and requires less routine maintenance than any competitive engine.

Why? G-Force engine’s top piston ring utilizes a plasma-filled compression ring design, as opposed to a cast iron top ring, that boasts a better cylinder conformity and longer useful life. They also have superior oil filtration, pressure sensors and starting technology that makes Generac engines long-lasting.

7 Reason Florida Homeowners Love Generac Generators

Their portable generator engine, the OHVI, is equally praised, with claims it can run three to four times longer than other leading generator brands, like Kohler and Champion.

Generac generators also include the following safety features:

Galvanneal steel with RhinoCoat outer layer to prolong the engine life
Low-fuel auto shut off function
Emergency circuit breakers to protect against overloading

3. Generac generators come in a variety of sizes.

Whether you’re looking for a permanently installed backup generator for your southwest Florida home, or a portable generator to fit within your budget, Generac has a generator to suit your needs.

Their permanent standby generators range from 6KW to 50KW, while the portable models start you out at a modest 800W. The powerful engines are worth noting, as Champion’s largest home standby unit produces a max of only 12.5KW, and Honda’s range reaches a max of just 10KW, compared to the Generac’s 50KW.

Review a side-by-side generator size comparison of Generac vs. Kohler vs. Briggs & Stratton here.

Not sure how many watts you need your unit to power? Generac features a sizing calculator to help you choose the best generator for your home.

4. Generac generators are becoming more and more eco-friendly.

Designed to consume less fuel and emit fewer emissions, Generac generators are also environmentally friendly. The generators are also less intrusive than those of other generator brands, helping Generac become the only generator brand to receive the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval.

On their website, Generac makes a proud commitment to sustainability, stating,

“Generac is committed to developing a long-term vision that promotes environmentally responsible products, processes, and partnerships. We offer product options that allow our customers to shrink their ecological footprint when backup energy use is required. Manufacturing processes are implemented with the goal of minimizing environmental impact by reducing the amount of materials used and emissions produced.”

Can other generator brands claim the same? In fact, Generac’s portable generators have decent eco-friendly ratings too, like their Generac Electronic Fuel Injection Portable Generator— mentioned on Consumer Reports.

5. Generac generators require little maintenance.

Since a standby generator is an appliance you depend on in an emergency, you want to be sure your generator is always in tip-top shape. Fortunately, Generac generators are easy to maintain. Each unit will perform weekly self-diagnostic tests, helping you catch issues before they become costly repair situations. Every Generac model also comes with the company’s patented Quiet Test function, which means the generators’ self-tests will conduct without disturbing the whole neighborhood!

If your Generac generator’s diagnostic test shows an issue, or you find you require service for your standby unit, Southwest Florida Electric can send an expert technician to your Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, or surrounding area.

Here are a few important tips for maintaining and servicing your generator on your own (though, we’d be happy to annually inspect it for you!). You’ll be amazed by how simple check-ups on your fuel lines, air filters and more can promote longer longevity for your unit.

Did you know home generators are either powered by liquid propane or natural gas? Compare the pros and cons of each generator fuel type here.

6. Generac generators have patented technology that makes them extremely efficient.

The Generac generator G-Flex technology is a big contributor to its fuel efficiency. According to Rural Living Today, this feature allows the engine to run only as fast as necessary, depending on the electric load demand.

This feature is what helps to set the Generac generators apart from competitor brands, which run at constant speeds regardless of the actual power demand. The throttle control is also why Generac generators run more quietly versus other standby units produced by competing brands like Kohler or Cummins.

Thinking about switching from a small portable generator to a permanently installed home standby? See how much a home standby generator typically costs.

7. Generac generators aren’t just used by homeowners.

While Generac generators certainly have made a name for themselves amongst Florida homeowners, they also make business standbys and industrial units. These large-scale models have been trusted to power schools, hospitals, data centers, gas stations, grocers, hotels and restaurants all across Florida.

Fully Authorized Generac Dealers

There’s a huge difference between us at SWFL Electric and those who get their generators from big box stores like Lowes or Home Depot. We’re certified service providers, licensed to offer routine maintenance and do any Generac repairs. This combination of the brand’s quality and our support helps to make our generators a one-time investment to last for many years to come.

Thinking of making the switch to Generac?

In our Battle of the Home Standby Generators guide, we stack comparisons against three major generator brands Generac, Cummins, and Kohler, for three different generator sizes to help you explore all the best options on the market. Download our free resource today.

DIY Portable Generator Repair Tips for a Quick Fix

Posted on April 12, 2021 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Whether you use your portable generator at home, the office or for camping, the last thing you want is for it to fail when you need it the most. Unfortunately, in the real world, things happen. Filters break, fuel lines clog and pull cords tear.

Next thing you know, your small but mighty backup generator is having delays starting, is rattling or isn’t firing up at all!

Luckily, our generator service team has your back. These portable generator repair tips can help you to fix the issue yourself, before calling the repairman:

1. Know the Warning Signs

Before taking a temperamental portable generator to the dump, it’s important to understand what its problems really mean.

A torn pull cord— for instance— isn’t the end-all-be-all. In fact, it’s quite easy to replace. And a generator that’s experiencing start-up delays may only need a fuel or filter replacement.

Here are 6 Common Troubles with Generators, many of which you can fix yourself to help you diagnose the issue.

2. Replace a Torn Pull Cord

One of the most common portable generator issues is the classic case of a broken pull cord. Fortunately, these aren’t difficult to replace and can be done fairly quickly, even with a flashlight during extreme weather.

While replacing the broken cord may seem as simple as wind-it-up and go, there’s one tricky thing to watch out for: the spring. Before you wrap the new cord around the starter, it’s crucial to ensure the spring has been wound as far as it can go. Failure to do so will cause the cord to hang from your generator without a functional spring to bring it back into the housing. This will lead to your generator not starting at all!

Thinking about switching from a small portable generator to a permanently installed home standby? See how much a home standby generator typically costs.

3. Check Your Breakers

Sometimes your generator starts and appears to run flawlessly, well except for one thing— it’s not putting out any electricity! This can be especially frustrating if your home experiences a power outage or you need it on the go.

In this case, it could be your breakers that are at fault. Have no fear! Replacing a breaker is as simple as ordering the proper set as designated by your generator’s manufacturer and installing them accordingly. While some handymen can do this on their own, we’re happy to help with that at SWFL Electric. Prevent the hassle by frequently checking your breakers. It may even be time to replace your electrical panel.

4. Replace a Fuel Filter

Depending on your generator, you may have a small plastic fuel filter inside. These filters prevent dust, debris and dirt— found in gasoline— from corrupting the fuel system. While these filters often excel at their jobs, some do it too well and can become clogged from all the debris they catch over time. When these filters clog, the fuel system will receive little to no fuel, and the generator will fail to run properly or sometimes not start at all.

Simply detach the fuel line where it attaches to the carburetor (holding it over a bucket or container to catch leftover fuel) and run your generator, paying special attention to whether or not any (or enough) fuel is seeping through the filter. If fuel is not passing through, it’s time to replace the filter. Sometimes you can get away with cleaning it, but generator filters are usually relatively cheap to replace.

5. Clear out the Gas Vent

On your gas cap, there should be either a valve or small hole that functions as a vent. The vent allows gas to flow from its storage area to the fuel system, effectively powering your system.

When the vent is clogged, the necessary airflow won’t reach the gas, and the gas won’t reach the carburetor. On the other hand, if the vent is only slightly plugged, your system will run, but poorly. Clearing out the gas vent is as simple as poking the small hole with a piece of wire, or even giving it a shot of compressed air. Talk about a quick fix!

Did you know home generators are either powered by liquid propane or natural gas? Compare the pros and cons of each generator fuel type here.

6. Maintain & Service the Generator Regularly

When your portable generator isn’t working properly, it can feel like the end of the world— especially when you wait until a power outage to check it when you need it to work now. But the best thing you can do to avoid frustrating issues come storm prep is to take good care of your generator all the time with proper maintenance and servicing— so you won’t need to worry about how to fix it fast.

By running your generator every few months (even when you don’t need it), routinely checking its fuel and lines, cleaning air filters and more, you can rest assured that your generator is ready when you need it most. Here are 7 Important Generator Maintenance Tips that only take a few minutes to do, but could prevent hours of troubleshooting and repair later.

Ready for Permanent Home Generator?

A small portable generator can be convenient for camping, using as a backup at home or even as a lifesaver in extreme Florida weather. But portables are not the generator you need for long-term, high voltage power. If your lines are down for days, a home backup unit is what you need.

4 Reasons Picking the Right Size Generator Matters!

Posted on April 8, 2021 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

The power’s out. Again.

You and your family are sitting in darkness, unable to charge your electronics, run your air conditioner (a must in southwest Florida in the summer!), use your stove, and, oh yes— your refrigerator full of food is about to spoil. You’ve had enough! It’s time to invest in a backup generator.

The catch? You don’t know which size of generator would be best for your house. Getting too large of a generator has its drawbacks, but so does getting one too small, and in this post, we’re here to talk about both!

Here are four reasons finding the right size home generator is important:

1. An undersized generator may provide insufficient or unreliable power.

When we’re talking about generator size, we’re more concerned about size in terms of “wattage” versus size in terms of physical “dimension.”

You see, generators are available in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW), which are measurements of electricity or the electrical power the generator supplies. When your home appliances need more power than your generator is rated to provide, it can cause a few issues.

For one, you may experience what is referred to as a “voltage drop.” In an effort to provide all the voltage you’re asking it to maintain, your generator may slow down— throttling the current to your appliances.

When we’re asking our generator to do too much, this is when you may experience flickering or dimming lights, AC units pumping slower or other symptoms as a result of your appliances not having enough power to run properly.

Looking for a clear explanation of how a permanently-installed backup generator functions, as opposed to a portable generator? Read How a Standby Generator Works.

2. The wrong size home generator can cause damage to your electronics and appliances.

In some cases, your generator could overwork itself and experience overheating and other problems that we’ll go over in our next point.

An overworked generator could malfunction and cause surging or other damage to connected appliances. This could either completely fry your appliances or devices connected to the generator, or it could significantly shorten their lifespan.

3. Too small/low wattage of a unit can cause damage to the generator itself.

A low-wattage generator that’s being asked to power more than it can handle will try really hard to do what you ask of it. While it may throttle down and drop its voltage, it will also be pumping harder than it should and as a result, may show telltale signs of overload.

If your generator is too small for the electronic demands, it could start to run loudly, emit excessive heat, overrun its fans to try and cool the unit down, etc. If you notice soot appearing in the exhaust of your generator, this is usually a clear sign you’re overworking your generator. It means your generator is struggling to filter or that clogging is occurring inside the unit.

Overheating like this could lead to fire— or even an explosion! That’s right, we said explosion. If there’s a gas tank near the unit and a spark leads to a fire, this is a major hazard.

Excessive overuse like this can also significantly cut down the lifespan of your generator by burning out your alternator, stator and other expensive generator parts that when shot, aren’t worth it to replace compared to getting a new unit (kind of like an engine going on a car!).

Did you know that generators are either powered by liquid propane or natural gas? Compare the pros and cons of each generator fuel type here.

4. Purchasing an overly big/high-wattage generator can mean wasted money.

Depending on the brand, wattage, fuel type and installer you choose, generators can be expensive.

We’ll choose Generac as an example. At the time of writing this, prices for small to large-sized Generac generators start at $3,459 for an 11 kW generator, $4,219 for a 16 kW and $4,949 for the 20 kW Guardian Series models. Factor in that initial price difference. Why pay almost $1,500 more for a 20 kW when you really only need the 11 kW?

Realize too that if you get a generator that produces more than you need, you need not only be concerned about the initial cost of the generator, but also the operating costs. If you have a liquid propane generator, this will mean paying more for fuel to fill a larger tank and potentially more in maintenance costs to service a bigger unit.

Curious as to how much a new generator will really run you? See how much a home standby generator typically costs.

Compare Sizes, Side-By-Side, in Our Pricing Guide

In our Battle of the Home Standby Generator guide, we stack comparisons against three major generator brands Generac, Cummins, and Kohler, for three different generator sizes. Download our free resource today to save time and research shopping.

6 Reasons to Install a Home Standby Generator & Ditch the Portable Unit

Posted on October 19, 2020 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

If you’re considering upgrading from a portable generator to a standby unit, you want to make sure the investment is worthwhile. After all, why pay so much more for a full home generator when you could continue muddling through with your little portable unit on the rare occasion you’re faced with an outage?

Trust us, there are some big reasons to ditch the portable generator. Here’s why Floridians should install a standby, back-up generator instead:

Whole-home generators can start automatically.

Who wants to worry about dragging out a portable generator and firing it up every time it’s lights out? A backup generator, by contrast, reconnects you to power instantly.

Backup generators are often called standby units because, well, they’re waiting on standby for a break in electricity— ready to fire up and fuel your home. Once an automatic home generator senses a disruption in electrical current, a transfer switch activates and the electricity kicks back on.

This convenience is unmatched, meaning you won’t miss a beat when the power lines are down. This is especially ideal for snowbirds, who may be out of state when an outage occurs and can rest assured knowing their electronic security system remains fully operational. It’s also convenient for those traveling or on-the-go, knowing that if the power goes out while they’re not home, their refrigerator and garage door will still be running without them rushing back to start the portable.

Back-up generators are more convenient.

Although portable generators can power normal appliances like your fridge, running power to those appliances is another matter entirely. You’ll need to run extension cords from the generator to a power strip, then pull that heavy refrigerator away from the wall, remove the cord from the outlet, and then plug it back into your power strip. Phew! We’re tired just thinking about it.

When you choose a standby generator, you’ll never have to worry about the fire hazard of an extension cord or moving those heavy appliances. Your standby generator is hardwired into your home electrical system. When the power goes out, your generator automatically begins delivering power to your most important lights, appliances, and air conditioning unit.

Standby generators are safer than portable generators.

Portable generators cannot run inside because they emit carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and deadly in enclosed spaces. This is why you can never, ever operate a portable generator inside your home, a closed garage, or a shed.

While permanently-installed standby generators also expel carbon monoxide, these units shield your generator in weather-proof casing, protecting them from Mother Nature. Portable generators are not safe to leave out in the rain, and often need to be operated under a tent or open garage the entire time they are powering your home. If you’re in the middle of a storm, though, good luck with that! A backup generator will kick on no problem.

Whole-home generators provide long-term power.

In addition to reducing your risk of fire hazards and fume inhalation, standbys are built for long-term power and typically rated as safer. These permanently-installed units are designed to run for days on end, whereas portable units are really only meant to function as short-term, few hour power sources. If you want a unit that will power up all your electrical appliances during the entirety of a week-long outage… a standby is your best choice.

Learn more about the factors that influence a generator’s runtime here.

Back-up generators offer higher wattage and can power more things in your home.

Who wants to deal with partial home power with a portable generator when you could keep your whole house operating with a standby?

Simply put, standby generators pack a stronger punch than portables. These permanently-installed units typically provide anywhere from 10,000-20,000 watts of electricity. Comparatively, some portable generators can only supply 3,000 watts, and even the best can only supply 8,000 watts.

With this in mind, a portable generator typically only has enough wattage to power a few of your household appliances— usually only the essentials. A standby generator can often offer full-household electricity, ensuring that your refrigerator, air conditioning, washer and dryer, and all other major appliances stay up and running until the outage is resolved. With the extra wattage of a standby generator, you won’t have to huddle around a fan, desperately trying to blow away the humidity or sacrifice your daily needs for the next storm.

Curious as to what wattage standby generator would fit your electrical need? Determine your power requirements.

Whole-home generators usually require less maintenance.

At most, Florida homeowners will use a generator once or twice every year. Some believe this is a good reason to choose a cheaper portable generator, but you may be making a costly mistake.

While both portable and standby generators require routine maintenance, portables need a constant supply of fresh gasoline and an oil change every 50 hours of running-time. By contrast, propane-fueled standby generators typically have larger tanks, which require fewer trips to fill them up and less frequent oil changes. Even better— if you have a natural gas line under your home, a natural gas generator will constantly have a steady fuel supply and save you time refilling.

Weigh Your Standby Options

Ready to start shopping for a whole house standby? See how much one will really cost you.

For a deeper look, download our free Battle of the Home Standby Generator guide, which compares the major generator brands Generac, Cummins, and Kohler— saving you time and research.

10 Ways to Stay Cool Without Power or AC

Posted on September 2, 2020 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

Here you are again— another storm, another power outage.

In the dead Florida heat, it’s agonizing waiting for the electric company to get your neighborhood up and running again. You and your family are melting and need some quick ways to cool off!

While obviously not as good as an air conditioning unit, here are a few ways to keep yourself cool without your AC until the power comes back on:

1. Take a dip in the pool

The pool: a Floridian’s favorite hangout. Now, more than ever, utilize the water while you can. Although no electricity may mean warmer-than-usual temperatures in the pool, the moisture will naturally help to cool your body down.

Consider taking a drive to a public pool in another neighborhood, which won’t be as hot, and spending a day splashing around.

2. Stay hydrated

When you’re sweating, you’re expelling important liquid. While your body means well— producing moisture in an effort to cool you down— you’re also dehydrating yourself.

While sweating might be a helpful short-term solution for the heatwave, after a few hours of dripping out all the water in your body, you’ll wind up feeling even hotter! When not in the comfort of AC, down a glass of water every hour to stay refreshed.

3. Close off the hottest rooms

The areas of your house that face the most sun are probably the warmest, and they can seep hot air throughout your other rooms. In an effort to keep the coolest parts of your house cooler, shut the doors to the sun-facing rooms and put a towel under the bottom crack to trap all the hot air in.

4. Sleep downstairs

Remember: heat rises, so your upstairs may be quite toasty. Even if you can’t avoid the upper levels of your home during the day, consider sleeping on the first floor of your house to get some shut-eye without dripping in sweat.

5. Cover your windows during the day

Any Florida resident knows how strong the sun can be. Windows without UV protection can increase the temperature of your house by allowing heat rays in.

When you don’t have your air conditioning to counteract the problem, we recommend closing the blinds during the day. It’ll make for a deary environment, but your house will be at least a few degrees cooler.

6. Open your windows in the evening

While you’re downstairs to sleep, consider opening your windows to let a night breeze in and air out your stagnant house from lack of AC airflow.

7. Wear breathable fabrics

As much as we love lounging around in our sweatpants with the AC blasting, now is not the time for heavy or tight-clinging fabrics, which cause you to sweat or feel uncomfortable. If you’re just relaxing inside with the family (who won’t care how you’re dressed), throw on your swimsuit or sportswear, which allow for more bare skin exposure and ditch the heat-trapping fabrics.

8. Use a cooling towel or wet bandana

There are specially-signed cooling towels and accessories made especially for helping you feel refreshed when you don’t have AC. This PVA cooling towel, for instance, just needs to be soaked in cool water, wrung out, and draped around your neck or anywhere you’d like to cool off. Check out these cooling bandanas too!

9. Get a battery-operated fan (before the storm)

Not all fans run on electricity. Some can be powered by rechargeable batteries, even larger “industrial” looking fans. While most larger units of 18 inches run about $150, smaller desk units are less expensive and may be a worthwhile investment for a few days of relief. Don’t wait until after the storm to pick one up as this must-have item will be impossible to find.

10. Invest in a home generator

Hurricane Wilma in 2015 caused billions of dollars in damage and cut electricity to many SWFL homes for as long as 15 days. Can you imagine living without electricity for 15 days in one of the hottest states in the US? Most Floridians can’t even imagine 15 minutes without power!

If you don’t want 15 days of cooling yourself with a battery-powered fan or these DIY cooling tips above, a home generator is the best way to go.

To keep your home cool even after the worst of storms, you can either purchase a portable generator or a standby generator. While a portable generator could be an option for a day or two, you need a permanently-installed unit for long-term power. Learn more about how backup (standby) generators work, including how much power they can support and for how long they can run, here.

Which Generator is Right for You?

From powering the bare essentials and your AC to full-house operations, you have options when choosing a home generator!

Check out these four big questions to ask before choosing a generator.

Then, explore our free Backup Generator Guide, designed to help you choose the right sized unit, the proper fuel type, and the right brand for your SWFL home.

What Type of Generator or Backup Power Supply Do You Need?

Posted on August 7, 2020 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

When it comes to generator shopping, it can be hard to know where to start. A long list of terms get tossed around, many of which overlap and can unintentionally confuse— electric generators, gas generators, standby generators, automatic power generators, back-up generators, etc.

Some are designed for partial-home coverage, while others are for powering your full-home. Let’s not forget generators made specifically for commercial vs. residential use.

Let’s take a look at a few of the most common types of generators to help you find the best power source for your needs this upcoming hurricane season.

Gas-Powered Portable Generators

Gas-powered portable generators are intended to be placed outside a home or small business in the event of a power outage and are often placed on wheels for ease of transportation. These units don’t require special installation, they can be stored away in a garage or shed storage area and rolled out as needed.

These are a great, economical choice if you are looking to power just a handful of things, have a space to store the unit when not in use, and don’t mind keeping some gas and a few extension cords on hand. Whether this means powering part of your home during a few-hour outage or keeping a few essential business devices connected come lights out, these smaller generators can come in handy for short-term power in a pinch.

Automatic Backup/Standby Generators

Emergency automatic backup generators (also called standby generators) are permanently installed units that sit outside the home, much like an air conditioner. Running off of a liquid propane gas tank or your natural gas service line, these exterior generators will switch on within seconds of an outage and power your home for the duration of the outage.

Depending on the wattage you get, a backup generator could be labeled as either a partial or a whole-home generator. Different models are available to meet any of your power needs— whether you want to keep your home running as if nothing happened, complete with air conditioning, or you just want to keep the food cold, a few lights on and a microwave ready to heat dinner.

Emergency automatic backup generators are the right choice if you want hassle-free peace of mind, with no extension cords necessary. Curious as to how long a generator can power your home? See which factors influence runtime.

Emergency Backup Batteries

Emergency backup batteries provide ready power for emergencies via a battery system that can be installed inside the home. You may already have a small-scale version of this in your home or office near your computer, that offers a few minutes of power for you to save documents and shutdown systems in the event of a power outage.

While technically not generators, backup batteries act much like an automatic backup generator, providing power automatically when an outage occurs. Battery backups are available in a wide range of outputs, from keeping the bare necessities powered like the refrigerator, a few lights to keeping the whole home running.

A battery backup might be the right choice for you if you don’t want to store gasoline or LP gas on your property, you don’t have natural gas service to your home, or you are looking for an automatic, low maintenance, hassle-free solution. These types of units can also be connected to and run off a solar energy system, making them an appealing option for energy-conscious home or business owners.

Commercial Generators

Generally speaking, the options up until this point are designed for residential use. While some smaller to mid-sized businesses and storefronts can certainly get away with a residential model, sometimes you need a little extra juice for large-scale establishments with high-voltage electrical needs.

Commercial generators can handle the power needs for your business. Much like a home automatic backup generator, commercial generators switch into action when the power goes out, keeping your business up and running without interruption. If you are a business owner, a commercial-grade generator is a smart idea to consider.

Start Comparing Generator Options

Now that you’ve learned a little about what kind of generator you may need for your home or business, it’s time to start looking for the right brand.

If you’re a homeowner, check out our helpful generator comparison guide, where we compare residentially-rated Generac vs. Kohler vs. Briggs & Stratton generators. While you’re at it, download our free resource, The Battle of the Home Generator Guide, which compares three popular wattages of the top three generator suppliers to help you choose the right model for your Florida home.

If you’re a business owner, reach out to us directly for the best commercial generator for your SWFL business. We’d be happy to help you estimate your wattage capacity and get you a more powerful power source to keep you up and running all hurricane season. Give us a call at 239-935-5892, today.

What Size Generator Do I Need? Whole House Generator Sizing Made Easy

Posted on September 17, 2019 | by Southwest Florida Electric Inc.

You’ve decided that you’re ready to invest in a standby generator, or a permanent unit capable of powering your essentials during an outage.

You considered a less expensive portable unit or another low wattage standby, but you fear the smaller generator may not have the power you need to support your wattage.

But how much wattage do you actually need— and what size home generator do you need to fuel your house-full of electronics?

We’re here to help you choose the right size generator for your electrical needs.

How Many Watts Do You Need?

The first step in choosing your ideal home generator size is to make a list of all the electronics you’d like to power during the outage.

Jot down some bullets with the essentials first, such as keeping your fridge running, a few lights on and your AC pumping (here in Florida, this is a must!). Next to that, create a column of “nice-to-haves,” like powering your hair dryer or microwave, etc. If you’d like the luxury of having everything run as normal, sharpen your pencil and mark down all the items you’d use in the event of a few-day outage.

Next to each item you wrote down, jot down two numbers: the starting wattage and the running wattage of each item. These calculations are the amount of juice you need to get the device on as well as how much energy you’ll need to keep them powered.

Not sure how many watts your hot water heater or TV requires? Honda compiled a list of common household electronics to help you determine your generator wattage. Or, type in your appliance type on Energy.gov to discover each device’s wattage rating manually.

Don’t Forget Your Automatic Transfer Switch

Now that you have a list of all the electronics in your house and their wattage requirements, you can start doing some math. But first, let’s not forget to factor in your automatic transfer switch (ATS), if you have one.

While some generators need to be manually turned on in the event of an outage, many standby units can detect a disruption in current all on their own, and kick on automatically with the help of an ATS.

This switch needs juice to operate— usually the equivalent of your breaker panel’s amperage. For instance, if you have a 200-amp breaker panel, then you’ll likely have a 200-amp switch to match.

Since amps are not the same as watts, you’ll need to do a little conversion: watts = amps × volts.

Once you’ve determined the wattage of your ATS, tack that onto your list and do some simple addition to discover your necessary wattage load.

A Generator Sizing Scenario

Let’s walk through a fictitious situation to help you calculate your home generator’s wattage requirements.

Scenario 1:

The Smiths have very different ideas about what they would like powered during an outage.

Mr. Smith only wants to power the “essentials” and he made the following wattage list to keep his Fort Myers home running in the event of a few-day outage:

Electronic	Wattage
2 light fixtures	175W (far less if they are using LED bulbs)
Electric water heater	4,000W
Central A/C	4,500W
Refrigerator	1,500W
Phone and tablet charger	50W
TOTAL WATTAGE:	10,225W

Scenario 2:

Mrs. Smith, however, wants to enjoy more luxuries if the power were to be out for many days in a row! She doesn’t want to be without entertainment, her kitchen or basic home care tech like her washer and dryer.

Here’s Mrs. Smith’s list:

Electronic	Wattage
15 light fixtures (all the lights in their home)	1,225W
Electric water heater	4,000W
Central A/C	4,500W
Refrigerator	1,500W
Phone and tablet charger	50W
2 laptop computers	150W
Microwave	1,000W
Stove/range	3,000W
Dishwasher	1,500W
Clothes washer and dryer	3,000W (collectively)
3 LCD TVs	450W
WiFi and cable modem	40W
Garage door opener	2,300W
TOTAL WATTAGE:	22,715W

Now that they’ve determined their wattage in “watts,” the Smiths must convert their power requirements into kilowatts.

Watts vs. Kilowatts

Home generators are sold in measurements of kilowatts, which is why the Smiths have to do one final conversion to find the right home generator size.

Google provides a nice tool for converting W or kW when you search watts vs. kilowatts. Using Mrs. Smith’s example above, we can see that 22,715W would require 22.715 kilowatts. So all you have to do it swap your comma for a period, as it’s a 1,000 to 1 ratio.

If Mr. Smith had his way, he’d only need a 11 or 12 kW generator to power his 10,225W load (it’s always safer to add an extra kilowatt or two just in case!). If Mrs. Smith got to choose, they’d need a 25 kW home generator.

And that’s it! Now you know how to calculate your home generator wattage requirements and choose the right sized generator for your electrical needs.

More Decisions: Fuel Type, Brand & More

Even though you’ve figured out how to determine your home’s generator wattage requirements, that’s not all you have to consider before purchasing a new power unit.

Do you know if you’ll get a propane vs. gas generator? How about much your generator cost will increase as your wattage requirements also increases? Then there’s another big decision: which brand do you choose?

We discuss all of these things and more on our Choosing a Home Generator page. Simply click the image below for free advice from your friendly Southwest Florida electricians at SWFL Electric.