Choosing a Home Standby Generator

For many Chicago area homeowners, a backup generator is no longer considered a luxury; it's a necessity. With an aging, overworked power grid and intensifying severe storms, extended power outages are not uncommon. Here are a few things to consider when purchasing a home generator.

1. Portable or Permanently Installed?

During a power outage, a portable gasoline-powered generator is wheeled out of storage and started manually to power a limited number of appliances and lighting fixtures. A portable generator must be refueled manually. By contrast, a permanently installed generator starts automatically when the power goes out. And because it's connected directly to the home's natural gas line, it never needs refueling and runs quieter and with less pollution than gasoline powered generators.

2. What Do You Need To Power?

For many homeowners, the essential items that need power are an air conditioner, refrigerator, sump pump, lighting, and small appliances. Because a whole house generator is plugged directly into the service panel, it can power whatever electrical circuits you need to have working.

ABC Plumbing Locations

Arlington Heights, IL

220 W Campus Dr
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Phone: (888) 991-3942

Largo, FL

11701 S Belcher Rd Suite 127
Largo, FL 33773
Phone: (888) 465-9799

Downers Grove, IL

1001 Ogden Ave LL4
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Phone: (888) 412-3566

Tampa, FL

4326 W El Prado Blvd Suite 7
Tampa, FL 33629
Phone: (888) 594-9030

Evanston, IL

828 Davis St UNIT 205
Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (888) 868-9369

Our Blog

VIEW ALL BLOGS

Leaks Under Your Sink? DIY Plumbing Checks Before Calling the Professionals

Regular plumbing checks are a simple yet effective way for homeowners to prevent costly repairs and protect their home. By routinely inspecting areas like under sinks and outdoor hose connections, you can catch small leaks early and address minor issues before they escalate. Simple actions like tightening fittings, replacing worn washers, and monitoring for moisture can go a long way in maintaining your plumbing system. While DIY checks are helpful, it’s important to know when to call a professional for persistent or more serious problems. Staying proactive with plumbing maintenance helps ensure efficiency, lower water bills, and long-term peace of mind.

Chicagoland HVAC Repair, Installation & Maintenance: Your Year-Round Comfort Guide

Chicagoland’s extreme weather—from freezing Illinois winters to hot, humid summers—puts constant strain on your HVAC system. This guide covers the most common heating and cooling issues homeowners face, including furnace problems in winter and AC performance challenges in summer. You’ll learn essential maintenance tips, warning signs to watch for, and when it’s time to repair or replace your system. Stay comfortable year-round with expert insights on HVAC repair, installation, and maintenance tailored for Midwest homes.
READ MORE
DIY Water Heater Flush: What You Can Do Before Calling a Plumber

Your water heater plays a vital role in your daily comfort—but without proper maintenance, it can lose efficiency or develop costly issues. In this guide, we explain why draining your water heater is important, the warning signs to watch for, and how homeowners can safely perform a basic flush. You’ll also learn common mistakes to avoid and when it’s time to call a professional plumber to ensure your system is running safely and efficiently.
READ MORE
What You Can (and Shouldn’t) Do With Your Electrical Panel

Your home’s electrical panel powers everything from your lights to your essential appliances—but handling it improperly can be dangerous. In this guide, we walk homeowners through how to safely locate and perform basic checks on their electrical panel using simple sight, sound, and smell inspections. You’ll also learn the key warning signs of electrical issues, what tasks you should never attempt on your own, and when it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Stay informed, stay safe, and protect your home with these essential electrical panel tips.
READ MORE