Propane powered 15KW automatic generator. Click the image for a larger view.

This home features a 15KW propane powered Generac brand generator. The generator is wired into a separate breaker box with priority circuits. Priority circuits include the TV and automation room, the well, refrigerator, heater (including outdoor boiler), and certain lighting circuits in various rooms. There is also one wall circuit in the bonus room where computers are currently used that is wired into the generator system. While extended power outages are not common, they do occur in this remote area.

This generator makes the home quite livable during these times, providing power for all the essentials like lighting, water and heat. It also provides power for day-to-day activities like computer and internet access and television. Propane power is convenient since a large supply exists on the property and the generator is low maintenance because of the clean burning characteristics of the propane fuel. About all that's required for annual maintenance is to change the oil and check the starting battery.

The generator runs a self check for 15 minutes each week. When power is lost, the generator starts automatically after 15 seconds. After another 15 second warm-up and stabilizing period, the automatic switch located in the garage switches the house from commercial power to generator, and life goes on. Once power is restored, the switch will automatically switch back to commercial power. The generator will continue to run without a load for a brief time (usually a few minutes), to cool down, then shut down automatically.