If you’re considering buying a whole home generator, then you might be wondering what the best time of year to install one will be. It’s true: there is a “best time” to install a generator, that will probably get you a better deal, and quicker service. Here’s what you need to know about the best time to get your standby generator.
The Early Bird Gets the Deal
In every type of contracting company, in every trade, there is a season where demand is higher. Thanks to the weather in South Florida, the demand for a whole home generator gets higher the closer you get to hurricane season. That means that there can be a shortage in supply, and because electrical companies are in higher demand at this time of year, it can also mean that installation prices are higher.
More Choice When Demand Is Lower
The storm season in Florida starts in about June, but if you wait until that late in the year, you’re probably going to have fewer choices. You may need to take a generator that is bigger or smaller than you actually need, because stock may be low based on high demand. You might not be able to get a preferred brand either, and you might not have options about whether your generator is a manual transfer or automatic.
Better Access to Advice Earlier in the Year
Another key factor in installing a whole home generator is to determine how much power you need, and to find a generator that delivers the amount of electrical power you need, is to have an electrical contractor visit your home, take a look at your existing panel and discuss your electrical needs. As the storm season gets closer, and the weather in South Florida gets more volatile, many electrical contractors find themselves hard pressed to keep up with the demand for installations and for site visits.
That can mean that if you leave your enquiries too late, you won’t get the same expert advice you would if you asked earlier in the year.
Supply and Demand
Have you ever noticed how Christmas ornaments and gifts go on sale for 50% or more off the sticker price the day after Christmas? That’s supply and demand in action, and generators are no different. If you purchase a generator early in the year, before the storm season is foremost in everyone’s mind, you will have more choices, and you might be able to negotiate a better deal. Later on in the year, when everyone is shopping for generators, you will have fewer options, and there aren’t likely to be any deals. Even if you shop for a generator now and leave installation until a little later in the year, sooner is better than later.
Anyone who has weathered a major storm in South Florida knows that when they hit, they can leave the power out for days, rather than hours. If you want to avoid that this year, and still save a little money and a few headaches getting a generator installed, make your plans and enquiries earlier rather than later. The closer you get to June, the less options you’re likely to have.
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