Is It Worth Getting a Backup Generator Installed In An Airbnb In Pennsylvania?
History, culture, and amusement meet in Pennsylvania. No wonder that major cities like Philadelphia and the counties have been witnessing a tourism surge for the last couple of years.
The increase in footfall has further positively impacted lodging and hospitality businesses.
For example, Brian Bossuyt, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, reported a 21% increase in lodging occupancy in the region in 2024.
Further, Airbnbs are an important part of the lodging and accommodation industry in Pennsylvania. And it’s growing especially in areas like Pocono Lake and Pocono Mountain regions!
Again, the latest Philadelphia Airbnb Market Data predicts an annual revenue of $20,886. Now, with a growing occupancy rate or demand, Airbnb hosts are also ready to invest in the best amenities.
A backup generator will prevent disruptions during daily operations, protect the electronic setup and the water system, and will work as a shield in severe weather conditions.
As a result, the installation of a backup generator is crucial for Pennsylvania Airbnb hosts. And in this Dream and Travel guide, I will discuss why there is a need for a backup generator in every Airbnb.
Why Is Getting A Backup Generator Crucial For Your Airbnb Business?
Installing a backup generator is crucial for a seamless guest experience in your Airbnb. It comes to the rescue in times of sudden power outages.
Power outages are common in Pennsylvania, with weather-related problems like strong winds, storms, and snow. Further, falling trees cause major power outages in this USA state.
Moreover, the cases of power cuts in Pennsylvania are increasing and that can heavily impact the convenience and comfort of the guests in your Airbnb.
| “Power Outages from Vegetation and Weather Continue To Challenge Pennsylvania’s Electric Reliability.” Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission |
However, these generators are not just crucial for the best client experience. When I talked to the senior electricians of Gerger Electric, they said that sudden power outages can also impact the functionalities of your water supply system and the entire electronic setup.
Let’s discuss the risks and challenges that make installing a backup generator crucial in detail.
1. Power Outages Impacts The Guests’ Comfort
You cannot use the heating, cooling, or lighting systems of your Airbnb without a power supply.
This can affect work-from-home arrangements for digital nomads who are juggling travel and work.
Additionally, tasks like cooking, cleaning, and laundry are put on hold with a power outage, as most modern appliances require electricity.
Moreover, put yourself in the shoes of your guests and think of a scenario in which your mobile phone is out of battery, and you cannot recharge it because of an extended power outage.
What will happen? You will lose contact with your family or friends. This can cause panic, especially for individuals who are traveling solo. They can even feel unsafe in these conditions.
So, power disruptions can lead to stress and frustration for guests, and only a backup generator can help you in this situation.
2. Sudden Power Outages Can Damage Home Appliances, Electronics, And Plumbing
During a power outage, the risk of damage to a home increases significantly. Appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, heaters, or the entire HVAC system can malfunction if they stop running.
In some cases, sensitive electronics may be damaged due to improper shutdowns or power surges when electricity is restored.
The average temperature in Pennsylvania hovers around 30 degrees Celsius from June to August. In these months, you will need an air conditioner to keep your indoors comfortable.
Similarly, in January and February, the lowest temperature can drop to sub-zero temperatures. So, it is difficult for the guests to spend the coldest days without a heater.
So, you need a backup generator in your Airbnb to keep the electronic appliances or the entire electronic setup during the power outage. It also helps to avoid sudden damage to these setups and appliances.
Furthermore, as an Airbnb host, you will face plumbing issues if sump pumps stop functioning.
There can be possible flooding with sump pumps not working. In such scenarios, repairing the plumbing system will be costly for you.
To avoid these problems, you must get a backup generator installed in your Airbnb.
3. Power Outages Can Cause Food Spoilage And Water System Failures
Food spoilage is a significant risk associated with power outages. If the refrigerator and freezer lose power, perishable items can spoil within hours.
This not only leads to financial loss for you as an Airbnb host but could also cause health risks if unsafe food is consumed.
In addition, municipal water systems often depend on electricity to function. Power outages may disrupt water pumping and treatment facilities, leading to reduced water pressure or contamination issues.
This can create a critical situation, affecting hygiene, cooking, and drinking water availability.
Being aware of these specific risks emphasizes the importance of backup power solutions.
Choosing the Right Backup Generator For Your Airbnb
The energy needs of your Airbnb will depend on the type of amenities and electrical setup it has.
If the energy needs of your Airbnb are higher, you must choose a standby generator. Further, with lesser energy needs, a portable generator will be a more suitable option.
Standby Vs. Portable Generators: Key Differences Explained
Standby generators are permanently installed outside a home and automatically activate during power outages.
Further, they differ in their energy capacity ranges, prices, and setup. The table below has all the details.
| Key Differences | Standby Backup Generator | Portable Backup Generator |
| Capacity | 7,500 Watts to Over 48,000 Watts | 1,000 to 10,000 Watts |
| Price | $5,000 to Over $25,000 | $300-5000 |
| Setup | Seamless Power Transfer | Manual Setup during Outages |
Further, standby generators use diesel or natural gas as their fuel. On the other hand, portable generators usually run on propane and gasoline.
Moreover, despite being expensive, standby generators are more flexible in their operations, and they offer better capacity.
How To Assess The Energy Needs Of Your Airbnb In Pennsylvania
You must start assessing the energy needs of your Airbnb by identifying essential appliances and systems that need power. These appliances include refrigerators, heating systems, air conditioners, and medical devices.
Now, you will have to calculate the wattage of the devices. For example,
- Refrigerator: 600 watts
- Sump Pump: 750 watts
- Heating System: 2,000 watts
- Lights and Outlets: 1,000 watts
- Airconditioners: 900-3500 watts
The total wattage will give you an idea about the backup generator capacity that will be the best for you.
However, at this stage, you must also keep the expansion plans in mind. You must consult an electrician for the power assessment to avoid undersizing or oversizing the backup generator for your Airbnb.
Undersizing or a generator with lower capacity will fail to meet all the energy requirements of your Airbnb during power outages.
On the other hand, oversizing the generator can lead to unnecessary costs. and compare services based on expertise, service offerings, and customer feedback. Engaging with a knowledgeable team helps clarify any uncertainties related to installation and ongoing maintenance. Choosing reliable services guarantees that the installation is completed efficiently and safely, maximizing long-term benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Homeowners often have queries about backup generators, including costs, size requirements, and maintenance needs. Understanding these aspects can aid in making informed decisions regarding installation and use.
The cost to install a whole house generator for a 1,500 square-foot home typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. This price depends on the generator’s size, type, and installation complexity. Additionally, homeowners should consider potential extra costs for permits and electrical work.
Several factors play a role in selecting the right backup generator for residential use. Key considerations include the total wattage needed to power essential appliances, the generator’s fuel type, noise levels, and portability. Homeowners should also assess their budget and any local regulations that may affect installation.
Annual maintenance costs for whole house generators typically range from $100 to $500, depending on the generator model and service provider. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the generator in good working order and ensure reliable performance during power outages. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, and system inspections.
The primary drawbacks of installing a backup generator include high initial costs and ongoing maintenance expenses. Additionally, the installation process may require permits and professional assistance, which can raise overall expenses. Some generators may also produce noise during operation, potentially impacting nearby residents’ comfort.
A generator can generally run for about 8 to 12 hours on two gallons of fuel under typical load conditions. However, this duration varies based on the generator’s efficiency and the electrical load it is powering. Homeowners should consult their generator’s specifications for more accurate estimates.
To determine the appropriate size for a whole house generator, homeowners should calculate their total wattage needs. This involves listing essential appliances and their corresponding wattages. Once the total wattage is calculated, it is essential to add a safety margin to ensure reliable performance and avoid overloading the generator.
