In last month’s article, I did not bring up portable gasoline/propane-fueled generators. Did you know you can install a transfer switch and inlet receptacle and wire these devices into your service panel?

I found several generators that can deliver 50A of 120/240V single-phase power, including a NEMA 14-50 receptacle that will deliver 50A (6,000W) to each of the hot legs for a total of 100A of 120V power. That is more than enough to keep your home office (and the rest of the house) running. Simply start your generator, plug it in and toggle the transfer switch. No more extension cords! These generators are rated at 11,000W peak, with the running watts maxing out at 9,000. I found three well-known brands for around $2,000. Transfer switch kits were around $800 for a 200A model.

Whole-home considerations

In addition, I found several brands of solar generators made for whole-house power backup with options for solar, 120V and 240V recharging. These systems were scalable, and, during a brief search, I found models delivering as much as 90 kilowatt-hours of storage capacity. These devices can become expensive, with starting prices from $2,500–$6,000. Options are available to furnish a smart panel, which can prioritize circuits for longer battery life. 

These systems are portable. They have the advantage of being low-noise, exhaust- and fume-free, and they do not require having flammables around such as propane or gasoline. Please note that these systems have many options, so you will need to study a system carefully before making a purchase.

My next suggestion is a permanently installed whole-home generator. This is installed in your yard and connects to the service panel through a transfer switch. It was a bit difficult to get a quote for my house, as there are a lot of building codes and homeowners association requirements. My generator had to be located certain distances from my house, the property line and my neighbor’s house. My location ended up being about 80 feet from the service panel, which added to the cost. The electrical conduits and gas piping were longer than originally calculated.

Afterward, I had to choose the size of the generator I needed, based on how much of my house I want it to run. I went to Home Depot’s website and found models from 10,000W to 26,000W. There were choices for natural gas, propane or dual-fueled. I also found that each brand charged different amounts for seemingly similar models. 

Eventually, I called an electrical contractor friend. He had the knowledge to consider all the code requirements and answer my questions. He quoted me about $25,000 to furnish and install a generator that would power my entire house. This price included the transfer switch and all wiring, gas piping and permits.

Solar power

The last system I looked at was solar power and solar power with battery backup. This method of generating power has more options and complications than other systems. The return on investment can be as little as five years or as long as 30 years. Initial cost, available incentives, system size, system options, utility involvement, codes and restrictions and, of course, how much sun you get where you live all factor into that calculation. The costs for solar power systems vary widely, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.

Batteries

You might also wish to consider batteries. Most people still need power at night and when the sun is not shining. A battery system stores excess power from solar panels during the day, and releases power for use when the system is not generating enough for your needs. Adding battery storage is expensive, but considered a “must have” by many. 

The batteries can be permanently mounted or portable. I like the portable solution because of its scalability, which is simple, because you can just plug in another battery if you need additional power storage. 

The preceding is a brief look into the power backup systems I have used or have considered. You must study them carefully before making an investment in keeping your office (or that of your customers’) powered up.

Pannin / stock.adobe.com