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How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home

April 22, 2025
How to Choose the Right Generator for Your Home

When the power goes out, your comfort, safety, and daily routine can take a hit—fast. That’s why more Tri-State homeowners are investing in standby generators for dependable backup power. Whether it’s summer storms or winter blackouts, a generator gives you peace of mind knowing your home will stay powered, no matter what.

How do you choose the right generator for your home? That’s where Apollo Home steps in. As Cincinnati’s trusted name in home services since 1910, we provide expert advice, honest pricing, and 5-star service from start to finish. With over 200 hours of technician training each year and service available 7 days a week, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s break down the key things to consider when selecting your home generator—and how Apollo makes the process easy, transparent, and stress-free.

1. Start with the Right Size Generator

Not every home needs the biggest generator on the block. The right size depends on what you want to power during an outage.

Power Only the Essentials?

If your priority is to keep the basics running—think refrigerator, Wi-Fi, lights, or a sump pump—a smaller standby generator may be all you need. These units offer:

  • Lower upfront cost
  • Quieter operation
  • Simple installation

They're ideal for households looking for reliable emergency backup without powering the entire home.

Need Full-Home Power?

For those who want life to carry on without interruption—including running your HVAC system, major appliances, and even medical equipment—a whole-home generator is the way to go. These systems are perfect for:

  • Larger homes or families with high energy use
  • Frequent or extended power outages
  • Anyone who works from home or needs medical devices powered at all times

How to Size Your Generator

At Apollo, our experienced technicians assess your power needs and home layout to determine the perfect fit. We’ll account for things like:

  • Current and future appliance loads
  • Surge demands (when appliances first turn on)
  • Your family’s daily lifestyle and energy priorities

Best of all, our consultations are transparent, with honest, upfront pricing and no pushy upsells.

2. Pick the Right Fuel Source for Your Home

Generators are powered by different fuel types, each with its pros and cons. Your home’s setup—and your preferences—will help us choose the best fit.

Natural Gas

Ideal for homes already connected to a gas line.

  • Never runs out of fuel during long outages
  • Low-maintenance and convenient
  • Not available in all areas

Propane

A popular choice when natural gas isn’t available.

  • Efficient, clean-burning fuel
  • Can be stored in larger tanks for extended use
  • Requires on-site tank storage and refueling

Diesel

Best for rural areas or high-output needs.

  • Long shelf life and excellent efficiency
  • Ideal for larger generators
  • Requires more storage space and maintenance

No matter your setup, our Apollo team helps you weigh the options based on cost, availability, and reliability. We’ll also take care of all safety regulations and code compliance, so you never have to worry.

3. Understand the Installation Process

Installing a standby generator is a detailed job that requires planning, permitting, and professional expertise. Here’s what to expect when you work with Apollo:

Step 1: Home Visit & Assessment

We visit your home to evaluate energy needs, generator placement, and fuel type. We'll make sure it fits your space and meets local building codes.

Step 2: Permits & Paperwork

Apollo handles all permits, inspections, and approvals. We make the process seamless, so you don’t have to stress over the red tape.

Step 3: Professional Installation

Our certified technicians install your generator with expert care, then thoroughly test the system to ensure it’s ready when you need it most.

We back every installation with our Satisfaction Guarantee and deliver no overtime fees—even if the job takes extra time. If you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll make it right.

Why Standby Generators Beat Portable Units

Unlike portable generators, which require manual setup, gasoline, and extension cords, a standby generator automatically powers your home the moment an outage occurs. Whether you’re home or away, it switches on seamlessly—no action needed on your part.

Benefits of a Standby Generator:

  • Automatic response during outages
  • Whole-home or essential circuit coverage
  • Zero hassle or daily setup
  • Safer and more secure (no open fuel tanks or loose cords)

Think of it as your home's backup plan that’s always standing by—quietly ready to protect your comfort, safety, and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does a whole-home generator cost?
A: Most whole-home systems range from $5,000–$15,000, including installation. The cost depends on your home size, selected fuel type, and energy needs. With Apollo, we provide upfront quotes, so you’ll know exactly what to expect—no surprises.

Q: How long will a generator run during an outage?
A:

  • Natural gas: As long as the utility supply remains active.
  • Propane or diesel: Typically, 24–72 hours on a full tank, depending on generator size and load.

Q: Can a generator power my entire home?
A: Absolutely. With proper sizing and professional installation, your generator can handle every system in your home—from lights to HVAC.

Q: What kind of maintenance does a generator need?
A: We recommend at least one annual maintenance visit. Apollo technicians will check fuel levels, battery condition, and overall performance to ensure your generator is always ready when you need it.

Why Choose Apollo for Your Backup Power Needs?

When homeowners in Cincinnati and the Tri-State area experience an “Uh-Oh,” they know exactly who to call. Apollo Home is more than a service provider—we’re your local partner in home comfort, safety, and reliability.

Here’s what you can count on when you choose Apollo:

Honest, Upfront Pricing

No gimmicks, no games. Just transparent estimates with no surprise fees.

Trusted Expertise

With over a century of service and continuous technician training, we’re prepared for anything.

Dependable Availability

Available 7 days a week with real-time text updates, convenient booking, and no overtime charges.

Community Commitment

Through our Apollo Home Cares initiative, we proudly support veterans, families in need, and local nonprofits—because we believe in giving back to the community we serve.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Don’t wait until the lights go out to find out you need backup power. Let Apollo Home help you plan ahead with a generator solution tailored to your needs and budget.

Schedule your in-home consultation today.
We’ll evaluate your energy use, answer your questions, and provide a clear path forward—with zero pressure and five-star service, every time.

Call now or book online to get started.
Choose Local. Choose Apollo.

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