Prepare for Power Outages by Investing in a Home Generator

If you’ve ever experienced a power outage, you know how this inconvenience can often last for hours, days or even weeks. Even worse, they can be extremely costly if you’re not prepared for them. But thanks to home generators, power outages in Australia can be more manageable. Here’s why you should own a home generator, along with the importance of having a professional electrician to help you choose the right generator.

WHY YOU NEED A HOME GENERATOR

Some of the main reasons to invest in a home generator include:

Inclement weather 

Consider the challenging weather that we often have to undergo down-under and how everything from floods and cyclones to bush fires and even earthquakes can devastate the mainland. These  weather events are usually accompanied by power outages.

Well water

If you have a well, you won’t be able to use your water because your well-pump, as well as your filtration systems, can’t provide water for drinking, flushing toilets, showering and other uses. What’s more, if a sump pump is used for keeping your crawl space or basement dry, the area won’t be protected from water damage. Moreover, you can lose everything stored there.

Power backup when you’re out of town

Another reason for a home generator is that your power can be automatically kicked on during a power outage when you’re away from home. A home generator can protect your HVAC system, your electrical appliances and a sump pump when you aren’t there. By keeping these systems powered when you’re gone, you can avoid expensive home damage, besides preventing other problems from happening.

TYPES OF HOME GENERATORS  

There are a wide range of home generators that come in various sizes and types, ranging from portable generators and standbys to inverter units.

Portable generators 

A portable generator provides power for both when and where power is needed. Consequently, it can prevent food spoilage, power essential medical devices and lighting for homes and businesses, along with other uses. Most portable generators are powered by gasoline.

Standby generators

These generators automatically start as soon as the power goes out and are used as backup sources for unforeseen events and disasters. Standby generators run on either propane or natural gas.

Inverter generators

This type of home generator, which has the most complex engine,  is considerably quieter. They meet energy demands by throttling an engine rather than running it full tilt constantly. As a result, you don’t have to fill up your gas tank as frequently. Furthermore, these generators have lower emissions production, making them more environmentally friendly.

BASIC SAFETY ISSUES USING A GENERATOR

• The main safety hazards to avoid when you use a generator are carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution (electric shock) and fire. That’s why it’s critical to carefully follow the instructions that come with your generator.
• To prevent electrocutions, keep your generator dry and don’t use it in wet conditions. When using an extension, be sure you select an outdoor cord with a power rating able to handle the total load of the devices and appliances you’ll be powering.
• Don’t exceed the power rating of a generator because this can not only cause damage to the generator and any hooked-up equipment, but it can also lead to fires. Don’t plug the generator into a wall outlet, which is known as “backfeeding” as this can threaten the lives of powerline workers and neighbors.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS AND WARNINGS

•  Besides bad weather, curious animals, automobile accidents, human errors and utility failures can also trigger a blackout.
• Generators can be used for more than just emergencies. You can use them for camping, outdoor events and portable power tools.
• Although most generators are powered by gasoline or diesel, others run on natural gas, biogas and propane. The best fuel for a portable generator is gasoline.
• Your generator should be kept away from children and pets.
• The power company should check your generator setup before using it.

Because generators can be a significant investment, they should be chosen carefully. That’s why you need an expert to help you make the best choice. Don’t hesitate to contact us about our wide range of residential and commercial services. As experienced and highly trained electricians, we know all the pros and cons of different generator models and sizes.