When the power goes out, having a quality generator on hand can be a lifesaver. The promise of affordable, portable, on-demand power is tempting, which is why so many homeowners consider cheap generators as a good solution. While the upfront savings are certainly attractive, opting for a low-cost generator can lead to a host of problems down the road.Â
In today’s guide, we’re going to cover all the reasons why choosing cheap generators can be a bad idea for homeowners in need of power. And remember, if you need help repairing a backup generator and you’re located in North Carolina, reach out to the experts at All About Heat & Air for help!
5 Reasons to Avoid Cheap Generators
Poor Reliability
One of the biggest concerns with cheap generators is their reliability. Budget models are often constructed with low-quality materials, making them more prone to breakdowns and malfunctions. This lack of dependability can be particularly frustrating during emergencies when you really need the generator to work. A failure during a power outage can leave you without any kind of backup solution.
Limited Performance
Generally, the more you pay, the more power you can get from your generators. Cheap generators often have much lower power outputs, which means they may not be able to handle the electrical demands of your home. Many budget models struggle to run multiple appliances simultaneously, forcing you to make difficult decisions about what to power and what to leave off. It can be incredibly frustrating when you realize that your cheap generator can’t keep up with your power needs.
Safety Concerns
Safety is another common concern when you pay bottom dollar for a generator. Many budget models lack essential safety features, such as an automatic shutoff mechanism and overload protection. The lack of features may not be apparent the first few times you use the generator, but these oversights can lead to extremely dangerous situations later on, ranging from electrical fires to carbon monoxide poisoning. Inadequate ventilation and poor design can also increase the risk of fuel spills and leaks, posing additional risks to you, your family, and your property.Â
Maintenance and Lifespan
While you might find a cheap generator with a decent warranty, the majority of bottom-shelf generators are not going to come with long warranties (because the manufacturers know that the machines are far likelier to break down). You’ll end up having to pay for maintenance and repairs more frequently, and probably all out of pocket. These long-term costs will quickly eat away at the initial savings. Additionally, cheap generators usually have much shorter lifespans, forcing you to replace them sooner than you would need to replace more robust and reliable models.
Fuel Efficiency
Another downside of cheap generators is poor fuel efficiency. A low-budget, 5,000-watt generator, for example, will burn through far more fuel than a high-quality generator that’s equipped to handle two or even three times as much power. This inefficiency not only increases your operational costs, but it can also leave you in a bad position if you run out of fuel during a power outage.Â
Get Generator Help From the Experts
Do you need a hard-wired backup generator for emergencies? Are you looking for someone who can repair your current generator? If you’re looking for a backup generator for emergencies or need help repairing and maintaining your current generator, the experts at All About Heat & Air are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services or get a quote!