Choosing a Generator
September is National Preparedness Month and there is no better way to be prepared than with a generator. Knowing that you’ve got a backup power generator during a power outage is the best way to be ready for any emergency. Here are tips for choosing backup power generator.
Depending on the type and size of generator you buy, you can run a few vital appliances or keep your whole house humming along. Whether you choose a portable emergency-size one or a whole-house standby, a generator lets you:
- use key appliances like your coffeemaker or stove
- run computers, phones and televisions
- keep food from spoiling in your refrigerator
- leave lifesaving medical equipment on
Portable Generators
You can find these in three sizes.
Small: These hold about five gallons of fuel and provide 3000-5000 watts. They can power a couple of essentials like your refrigerator and sump pump.
Medium: With a larger 10-gallon tank, these put out 6000-8000 watts, which will provide power to several rooms.
Large: If you want to run your air conditioning, you’ll need this size, which normally holds about 10 gallons and has an output of 10,000 watts. This will keep an entire small house almost fully powered.
To use a portable backup power generator safely:
- Keep it outside, at least 10 feet from the house and not in a garage or other covered area.
- Carbon monoxide can be a dangerous by-product of using a generator, so consider getting a carbon monoxide detector while it’s in use.
- Remember that if it’s a smaller size you’ll have to keep refilling the tank; a 15-gallon tank can run about eight hours.
- If you decide to wire the generator to your main circuit panel, you must call an electrician with expertise in this type of installation.
Automatic Standby Generators
Wired into your home’s circuit breaker, these powerhouses will start automatically as soon as there is a blackout. In most cases they only take 30 seconds to turn on.
A standby generator is the best bet for complete assurance that you’ll never have to fear a power loss. Among other features:
- It turns on whether you’re home or not.
- It runs quietly, with no cords or wires to worry about.
- There’s no need to refill it.
- Connect it to your fuel lines or install an underground tank.
Some other things to consider with a standby backup power generator:
Higher cost: Usually several thousand dollars compared to a few hundred for a portable generator.
Setup: It must be installed by a professional electrician.
Local codes: In some locales you will need a certificate from your utility company before you can install one.
Get Expert Advice
To get the best generator for your needs and budget, talk to an expert electrician who can walk you through the features, advantages and disadvantages of each one. If you are installing anything into your home’s wiring, you will definitely need to consult a professional.
When you call Southern Electrical Service Company, you can be sure you’re getting:
- top-notch advice from highly skilled, specially trained electricians
- the right setup for your home, budget and lifestyle
- expert installation to ensure your family’s safety
- emergency service that’s available 24/7
- a customer-focused approach that has made us a local favorite for years
Winter is not that far off, so make sure you’re ready for it with a generator that will give you peace of mind. With the right generator, properly installed and ready to go, a power outage can be an inconvenience rather than a full-blown disaster. Call us today and we’ll make sure you have the right backup power from the right source.