Does a Generator Work for Your Home Type?

Shopping for a home generator? At Kohler Home Energy, we know the difference that quiet, reliable backup power makes during an outage. But before you make your purchase, we recommend confirming that a standby generator is right for your home. Here’s what you need to know:

1. You Must Own Your Home to Install a Standby Generator

Standby generators are permanently installed outside of your home—just like an AC unit or solar panel system—and routed to your home’s electrical and gas systems. For this reason, you must own the property your generator will power.

2. Your Home Type Matters

When it comes to purchasing a generator, the type of home you live in is just as important as owning it. While we are capable of installing your generator anywhere there is ample space, we don’t recommend a permanent installation for those living in apartments. If you live in a townhome complex, consult your community’s by-laws before purchasing. Typically, single-family and fixed mobile homes are qualified for generator installation.

3. You May Need Approval Before Installation

Typically, your generator will be installed alongside your home’s exterior in a discrete area, but it is still considered a modification to your home’s appearance. This means you’ll likely require approval prior to installation if you live in a community regulated by an HOA or other governing board. For local and national permitting, you can rely on your authorized Kohler dealer to navigate any applicable codes before installation day.

4. You Should Consider Your Home’s Power Needs

Do you want to power your entire home during an outage, or only select appliances? Once you know you have approval to purchase and install a standby generator, start by analyzing your home’s electrical load and your power priorities. This will help you determine potential generator models before meeting with your authorized Kohler dealer, who will be able to provide more recommendations after reviewing your home with you.

Get reliable backup power that fits you and your home.

No matter where you live, your household may be affected by a power outage. But with a home generator for automatic backup power, you can guarantee safety and security for you and your family — even during extended outages. Request your free quote today to find the right model for your home.

Winter weather can change in strength and severity each year. It brings different conditions that can affect daily life. Having KOHLER backup power is a good way to feel safe and have peace of mind during winter storms and power outages.

Many factors influence weather and understanding it requires a closer look at several key elements. Regional location plays a crucial role. Different parts of the world have unique weather patterns and features. These features can greatly influence local weather conditions. Climate patterns are another critical factor. Long-term trends in temperature, precipitation, and seasonal changes can shape the environment. The specific weather conditions during a given season can greatly influence outcomes. Short-term weather events, such as a snowstorm, can change the weather in your area. These events include heavy snow, ice storms, and frigid temperatures.

Prepare for the cold – Ensure your generator is winter-ready! Check your unit's spec sheet for heater kit recommendation when temperatures drop blow 32°F (0C). Need a cold weather kit? See our options here or contact your local dealer.