Both solar power and whole-house generators are excellent options for providing electricity, but which one is best suited for your home? There are several differences between these two options, and if you are interested in learning more about both, this blog post is for you.
In this look at generator vs. solar, we will highlight the pros and cons of both so that you can make an informed decision. For homeowners in Southwest Florida, your premier choice for electrical contractors is All Phase Electric Inc. Let’s get started.
Pros and Cons of Solar Panels
The solar industry in the United States is booming. Last year, a new solar panel project was installed every 60 seconds, with Florida home to the third highest solar capacity in the country (behind California and Texas).
Solar energy is a clean, abundant, and renewable energy source which is playing a leading role in combatting the effects of climate change. It is also helping homeowners to save thousands of dollars per year on their home energy bills. Solar panels have a lifespan of 25-plus years and typically pay for themselves after just a few years.
In terms of a backup power source, solar panels can be combined with solar batteries. This allows homeowners to store energy created during the daytime and use it at night when the solar panels are not active. Without a solar battery, homeowners are generally reliant on using grid electricity at times of the day when the solar system is not functioning.
Pros and Cons of Whole-House Generators
A whole-house generator, also known as a standby generator, can power a house during an outage. This makes it an excellent backup power source. They also make a seamless transition from grid power to the generator when necessary and stop food and perishables from spoiling when the grid goes down.
Whole-house generators are also designed to run for extended periods. They offer excellent peace of mind for homeowners and can also improve home value (as with solar panels).
They can be expensive to buy and install, and fuel is a recurring cost. They can also be loud, take up space outside your home, and require maintenance from time to time.
Generator vs. Solar Power: The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that both solar power and generators are highly recommended options for homeowners. Solar panels can provide renewable energy to a home and significantly reduce homeowners’ energy bills. Combined with solar batteries, they can take homes completely off-grid.
Meanwhile, generators help keep the power on during outages, which is very common in Florida. If you are interested in learning more about generator vs. solar, speak to the expert team at All Phase Electric Inc.
For more than 25 years, we have been a leader in electrical innovation in Southwest Florida. We look forward to speaking with you.
