I have been asked frequently when is a good time to buy a backup generator, my usual answer is when they’re on sale. Most of us can work through a half-day power outage but when the power is gone for several days camping out in our house becomes difficult and keeping food from spoiling is difficult. Frequently, when long-term power outages occur the events are fairly widespread so you may have difficulty getting dry ice or other items to help get you by until the lights come on. Backup generators fit into two varieties, those larger in scale and hardwired into our system and portable generators.
An example of larger generators are the Generac 24k watt. These larger generators provide significant power and should be installed by a qualified electrician. When properly installed the unit will have an automatic transfer switch so when the power goes out for a few seconds the generator will automatically come on providing electric power while at the same time disconnecting your home from the regular power grid which is necessary to avoid endangering our company workers. For a larger standby generator, you can expect to pay $5000 up. When having the generator installed, you’re going to have to work with your electrician and decide which circuits are going to be powered on a backup basis because you want to be careful you don’t overload the generator. Work with and listen to the guidance of your electrician.
More commonly in use are portable generators which are available in different sizes and price points. The portable generators are extremely helpful, but because of the portability must be used carefully and safely.
Always run your generator at least 20 feet from your house, and any open window, door or exhaust vent which could conceivably suck in carbon monoxide in your home. Even in extreme cold weather do not be tempted to run your generator inside your garage or worse a basement, as carbon monoxide fumes will seep into your home. When setting up the generator make sure the unit is sitting on flat ground and preferably have a canopy or other protective covering to protect excess water getting in your generator.
Preferably the generator should be plugged directly to appliances being powered such as a refrigerator and freezer. This avoids the possibility of electric current going through your system back down the power line which could put a line worker in danger of electrocution. If you decide to plug the generator directly into your home, then you must turn off your master power switch to avoid power escaping backwards down the power line and endangering line workers.
When using an extension cord only use a heavy-duty outdoor extension rated cord and be certain the cord is free of cuts, crimps or bending and that the plug has three prongs for appropriate grounding.
When working with your portable generator wash and dry your hands completely before touching anything. When fueling, always allow the generator to cool off because if you spell any gasoline on a hot generator a fire is a distinct possibility. If you spill, clean up with a rag before restarting the generator.
Fuel storage is important because a generator will not run without the correct fuel. After purchasing your unit read the owner’s manual and understand the amount of fuel necessary for operating the generator. Each homeowner needs to determine what the risk of a long-term power outage would be and store fuel accordingly. Our recommendation would be to store more gasoline than you may believe is required, but then rotate on a schedule. Before the gas goes bad use it in your automobile and then refill the container with fresh fuel. Put this task on your calendar and be faithful because old gasoline will simply gum up your generator and you will not have power when needed. Most gasoline should be used within six months. Always store safely away from the home and always in marked appropriate containers.
Calculate carefully the power load from appliances being used from a generator and be careful not to overload. Turn off all non-used appliances and lighting.
Several key tips to keep in mind:
Read and understand the owner’s manual and comply with all instructions, the time to learn about your generator is not after the lights of gone out
Test your generator at least every 30 days, particularly gas generators need to have the fuel run through the unit to avoid being gummed up later
Be certain you have carbon monoxide detectors installed with current batteries
You don’t need to run your generator 24 hours a day, consider turning off at bedtime and using flashlights or other alternative lighting. Also, during the day turn the unit off for rest periods and a cooling-off period your food will stay cold without power for some hours. You never know when you’re going to be able to refuel.
A working generator will make camping out considerably easier and when properly configured allow your non-electric furnace to operate along with key appliances. Also, you will have the ability to reach out to your neighbors who may be freezing and invite them into your home as an outreach opportunity. When taking the step of obtaining a generator explore a bit further at Ready Christian.
Securing and maintaining a generator is a commitment, and when in doubt as the Lord as James wrote, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you”. (James 1:5)
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