Backup generators are designed to give you power when you lose local utility power.
How often does that happen? That would depend upon where you live and your power utility company.
With a back up generator you can have power available whenever you need it and you won't be without.
But you must have the correct size whole house generator for your home and proper installation.
I have customers that have antique central air conditioners that put a lot of strain on their generator.
People are constantly trying to take something smaller and make it work for bigger.
Is it the price? Is the because of money? You might spend a small amount for a generator and it still doesn't work for you.
So why not spend a little more and get the size that will handle the load it is required to handle.
Whatever generator size you install, it should fit the load you are carrying and code requirements should be met.
Let me compare it to a wagon or cart.
If you constantly load up a wagon that is undersized for that load, you are carrying too much weight.
You could have problems because of too much weight.
The springs are going to give out.
The tires are going to give out.
The axles are going to break.
Parts of the cart are going to break because it is undersized for that load you are carrying.
If a generator is properly sized for the load you are carrying, it will be better because it is running at half speed and it is not putting as much strain on the generator at the surge level.
Before installation, make sure your generator is sized correctly.
If you under-size the generator, it will end up costing you more money.
Undersized, you waste fuel because you are making the generator work too hard.
You are wearing it out quicker.
Many people buy a smaller, cheaper generator for right now.
They come to regret that impulse decision and wish they had a generator that runs their whole house without have to prioritize their load.