Warren, OH -- (SBWire) -- 12/30/2016 --Winter ice, hurricanes, tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flooding and many of Mother Nature's disastrous gifts can cause power outages. How long will food stay fresh or frozen? Will the sump pump work to keep the basement from flooding? Will medical devices work without backup power? Will the computer be functional after a disaster? How will the cell phone charge?
It is imperative to check the condition of a generator to ensure it functions properly. Check the oil and filters, and add fresh, high octane gasoline. Add a good stabilizer like Ethanol Shield to the gas can. Invest in a tote or some type of container too keep the cords and plugs in one location.
Home generators are divided into two basic types and choosing which is best comes down to overall electrical requirements, available fuel sources and budget.
Some people can get by easily with a portable home generator which runs on gasoline. If a homeowner simply requires a few lights, a refrigerator or freezer and sump pump, the portable units might be the best option. Portable generators will save money in both the long and short term, and can be used at other locations.
A home stand-by generator system offers more convenience, a nearly limitless running time and a more reliable fuel supply since they run on natural gas or propane. Providing 20kw or more, home stand-by units have the potential to power a whole house for days, weeks, months and even years at a time.
Automatic transfer switches are an added convenience and will activate even if someone is not present at the time of an outage. When the lights go out, they come right back on. More intelligently designed transfer switches can even manage electricity and allow occupants to alternate and choose which circuits receive power in order to save fuel or make the best use of available wattage.
Home stand-by generators are a permanent part of a home and require installation by qualified plumbers and electricians. Those interested in adding one should consult an electrician to determine power requirements and to work up an estimate for the total cost of installation.
Here are a few safety tips for properly running a generator:
-NEVER run a generator in a house or garage. Run a generator safely outside, with the exhaust pointed AWAY from doors, windows and vents.
-Plug appliances directly into the generator with the properly rated extension cord OR have an electrician install an appropriate transfer switch. NEVER plug a generator directly into a wall outlet.
-Be sure all cords are free of cuts and have all prongs, especially the grounding pin
-Let the generator cool before re-fueling. Gasoline spilled on a hot engine or area can ignite
-NEVER store gasoline in your home or even an attached garage. Keep it AWAY from any fuel burning appliances like a furnace, hot water heater or woodstove – vapors can travel back to their ignition source and ignite.
-Always have a Carbon Monoxide detector in use when running a generator – this can save a life!
-Keep the generator dry and on a dry surface, under an open canopy or tent.
-Dry hands before touching the generator.
-Transport it safely if necessary – in the trunk of a car or bed of a truck, securely fastened.
About Power Equipment Warehouse
Power Equipment Warehouse and its affiliates are family owned and operated since 1947. Brands of power equipment supplies sold include: Toro, Husqvarna, Honda, Little Wonder, Mantis, MTD, JRCO, Ryan, Brown, Bluebird, Trac-Vac, Trimmertrap, Jungle Jims, Velke and many, many more. Power Equipment Warehouse is the trusted name in the outdoor power equipment industry.
Home Generator Information 101 & Generator Safety Tips