A backup power generator can be a lifesaver during an emergency power outage, providing power to essential appliances and devices when the main electricity supply fails. Having a backup generator ensures that your home stays comfortable and functional, even during severe weather conditions or other unexpected events.
Power Outages Can Be Unpredictable
Power outages can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from severe weather to infrastructure faults to animal activity. Severe storms such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and thunderstorms can cause power lines to come down, interrupting service.
Power lines can also be affected by high winds or slippery surfaces due to snow and ice. In addition, the failure of transformers or other parts of the electrical grid can result in a power outage. Animals such as squirrels or birds may also interfere with power lines and create an outage when they come into contact with them.
Assessing Your Energy Needs
Before you can choose the right backup power generator, you need to assess your energy needs. This involves calculating the energy requirements of different appliances and devices in your home. It’s important to understand the difference between running watts, which are the continuous watts required to keep an appliance running, and starting watts, which are the additional watts required to start an appliance.
- Continuous watts refer to the wattage that can be maintained over a certain period of time
- Starting watts are the wattage needed to start up a motor or electronic appliance
- Try and pick a generator that can run at least 1.5 times your regular energy needs
- Make sure you check the running and starting wattage of all items that need to be powered
- Consider the maximum output level of the generator you’re buying, as it should match what’s required by your appliances
Choosing the Right Backup Power Generator
With a better understanding of your energy needs, it’s time to choose the right backup power generator. There are two main types of backup power generators: portable generators and standby generators. Portable generators are ideal for occasional use, while standby generators are designed to provide backup power for your entire home. When choosing a generator, you need to consider factors such as size and power output, fuel type, noise level, portability, and price. Our recommendations for choosing the right generator will help you make an informed decision.
- Consider the size of your home and the number of appliances and lights you need to power
- Determine how much electricity your home consumes on a regular basis
- Look into factors such as cost, noise levels, and fuel sources when picking a generator
- Calculate the wattage needed to run various items in your home
Preparing Your Home for an Emergency Power Outage
Once you have chosen your backup power generator, it’s time to prepare your home for an emergency power outage. This involves installing the generator, connecting it to your home’s electrical system, and taking necessary safety measures. Installing the generator requires careful consideration of placement and ventilation while connecting it to your home’s electrical system involves the use of transfer switches or interlocking devices. Regular maintenance and safety checks will ensure that your backup power generator operates reliably and safely.
- A backup generator can provide essential power for your family during an extended outage
- It can supply enough power to keep critical appliances such as refrigerators and freezers running
- Whole house generators allow you to switch back to the main grid when power is restored, ensuring that all lights and appliances are functioning
Your Family’s Care Comes First
Having a backup power generator is an essential aspect of emergency preparedness, providing peace of mind and protection during power outages. By assessing your energy needs, choosing the right generator, and preparing your home for an emergency power outage, you can ensure that your home stays comfortable and functional, even during severe weather conditions or other unexpected events.
For more information and resources about preparing your home for an emergency power outage, contact us here at Long Island Power Systems.
