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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home Sizing, Types & Buying Guide

Published by Parisa Ostovari

We keep your home running right.

Power outages are more than just an inconvenience—they can disrupt daily life and even pose safety risks. Whether the lights go out due to severe weather, unexpected accidents, or an aging power grid, the right generator can offer peace of mind and security. At Stone, we believe your comfort and safety shouldn’t be left to chance. With a trusted team of home service experts behind you, staying powered through any outage is simple and stress-free.

Here’s how to find the perfect generator solution for your home and lifestyle.

Step 1: Determine What You Need to Power

Before choosing a generator, assess what you want to keep running during an outage. Generators vary in capacity, so understanding your household’s priorities is the first step toward a smart decision.

Essential-Only Backup

If your goal is to power only a few necessities, a smaller portable generator may be sufficient. These units typically support:

  • Refrigerators and freezers
  • Basic lighting
  • Medical devices
  • Security systems

Portable generators are an economical solution for essential needs, ideal for short outages or homes with lower energy demands.

Whole-Home Backup

For uninterrupted comfort, a standby generator with a larger capacity can power your entire home, including:

  • HVAC systems
  • Major kitchen appliances
  • Water heaters
  • Entertainment and electronics

Stone offers personalized assessments to help you decide whether a portable or whole-house system best suits your needs. Our experts are here to make sure your home stays fully functional when it matters most.

Step 2: Choose Your Fuel Type

Generators can run on different types of fuel, each offering specific benefits depending on your home’s setup and energy goals.

Natural Gas

If your home has access to a municipal gas line, a natural gas generator offers seamless operation with minimal maintenance.

  • Ideal for: Homes with existing natural gas service
  • Advantages: Unlimited fuel supply, low maintenance, eco-conscious

Propane

Propane is a clean, reliable alternative to natural gas. It can be stored onsite and is often chosen for its long shelf life.

  • Ideal for: Homes without natural gas access
  • Advantages: Efficient storage, reduced emissions, reliable in emergencies

Diesel

Known for their power and endurance, diesel generators are best suited for homes with high energy needs or rural properties.

  • Ideal for: High-capacity needs or remote areas
  • Advantages: Long lifespan, strong performance, consistent reliability

At Stone, we help you weigh the pros and cons of each fuel type to choose the best match for your home setup.

Step 3: Find the Right Size Generator

Proper generator sizing ensures efficiency and reliability. Overestimating can mean unnecessary costs, while underestimating may leave you in the dark.

  • Small (5,000–7,500 watts): Great for powering a few essentials.
  • Mid-Size (8,000–12,000 watts): Supports multiple appliances and systems comfortably.
  • Whole-Home (12,000+ watts): Keeps your entire home running seamlessly.

At Stone, our licensed electricians will walk you through a load calculation to determine the exact wattage your household needs—no guesswork, just reliable protection.

Step 4: Rely on Professional Installation

Installing a generator involves more than plugging it in. It requires careful planning, compliance with local electrical codes, and proper integration with your home’s systems.

Stone delivers expert installation services with precision and care. We manage every detail, from permitting and fuel line connections to wiring and testing. And with our cleanliness guarantee, we treat your home with the same respect we would our own.

Step 5: Schedule Regular Maintenance

Like any critical system in your home, your generator needs routine care to perform when it counts. At Stone, we offer ongoing maintenance plans to ensure your investment stays in peak condition.

Generator Maintenance Checklist:

  • Oil & Filter Changes: Keeps your engine running smoothly.
  • Battery Checks: Ensures reliable startups.
  • Fuel System Inspections: Prevents blockages or contamination.
  • System Testing: Confirms readiness before storm season.

We keep your home running right—year after year.

Benefits of Having a Home Generator

The advantages go beyond just keeping the lights on:

  • Confidence and Control: No more waiting on the power company.
  • Comfort in Any Season: Maintain climate control even during extreme weather.
  • Protect Your Health: Keep vital medical devices and refrigeration running.
  • Enhanced Security: Keep surveillance and safety systems online.

With Stone, you’re not just buying a generator—you’re investing in long-term peace of mind, backed by experienced professionals who care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a generator cost?

Home generator prices vary based on size, type, and installation needs. On average, systems range from $3,000 to $12,000. At Stone, we offer transparent, upfront pricing with no surprises.

How do I know what size generator I need?

Start by listing which appliances you want to power during an outage. We can perform a full energy assessment to ensure your generator meets your home’s needs without overspending.

How often should I service my generator?

Annual maintenance is recommended, especially before storm season. Our technicians can help you set up a recurring service schedule that fits your lifestyle.

Do I need to refuel my generator?

If your generator runs on propane or diesel, yes. Natural gas units draw directly from your home’s supply and don’t require manual refueling.

Is generator installation disruptive?

We strive to make the installation process as smooth and non-invasive as possible. Our team works efficiently and cleanly, ensuring minimal interruption to your day-to-day life.

Ready to Power Up Your Peace of Mind?

Choosing the right generator doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you need a compact solution for essential appliances or a full-scale system to power your whole home, Stone is here to help. With decades of experience in electrical systems, transparent pricing, and a commitment to quality, we’ll keep your home running right—no matter what comes your way.

Contact Stone today for a no-obligation consultation and make sure your home is ready for the next outage.

 

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