Today we live in a world that’s under constant threats from climate changes. Hurricanes are more frequent and intense, and unusual weather patterns such as extreme flood and drought are observed throughout the globe. On top of that, we are dealing with other man-made threats that are aimed to undermine national security by targeting our infrastructure. When any of these disasters strikes, we become very vulnerable to losing our electricity. Are you prepared to live without power for one day, two days, or even a week?
Having a generator is one common solution to ensure you continue to receive electricity when there’s a power outage. A standby generator which is typically permanently installed on the ground can provide power to the entire house for a prolong period of time, depending on the power output. But it also comes with a big sticker shock sine professional installation is required.
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The alternative to standby generators is portable generators. As the name implies, portable generators are easy to transport and much smaller in footprint. But the drawback is that they’re limited in the power output. Use the portable models to power essential equipments around the house such as the refrigerator, heater, cell phones and so on.
Features to Look For in a Generator
Most generators run on gasoline and you have to store a large quantity of gasoline in order to keep the generator running. Look for models that offer alternative fuel options such as natural gas and propane which are likely to be available after the blackout.
Another convenience feature to look for is the push-button electric start. This replaces the pull-cord starter which can be frustrating at times (remember that lawn mower that refused to start?)
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What’s a Transfer Switch?
A transfer switch is an electric switch that’s housed inside a compact breaker box with the purpose to switch a load between two power sources. In a typical house, the main power source is the utility company power grid, and the other source is the generator. The transfer switch is installed right next the main electrical panel. It is recommended that you do get a power switch and have it professionally installed.
Additional Reads
Home Generator Selecting, Sizing and Connecting: The Complete 2015 Guide
Lulu Press, Inc. 2015
This book, written by a power electronics engineer provides you with the practical information you need to know in order to choose the right emergency generator for your needs. The book covers standby and portable electric generators in minute detail. It also presents an overview of battery-based backup systems. For each type of electric generators this Home Generator Guide provides principals of operation, pros and cons, lesser known details, charts with comparative characteristics of the...
Portable Generators
Lulu Press, Inc. 2014
This book is an introductory primer for individuals new to portable power generators. It presents a 4-step process to determine the appropriate generator size before a final purchase decision is made. Whether the generator is needed to overcome the loss of home power resulting from summer or winter storms; for power construction site or yard work devices; or for camping, this book will help identify the right size generator for your situation. Quick reference tables are included, along with...
