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Beating Bad-Weather Worries

Posted: 7/29/2010

Installing a standby generator can help protect against power loss.

(NAPSI)-You can protect your home from problems caused by blackouts due to severe weather or downed power lines. Such outages can be costly, inconvenient, even life threatening.

The Problem

While food spoilage, sump-pump or well-pump failures and inoperative home security systems are all serious concerns, a power outage can prove deadly--in minutes--for those who rely on medical devices. Additionally, under prolonged blackout conditions, the demands for emergency assistance and services escalate, resulting in dangerously delayed response times. Fortunately, you can be self-reliant with an electrical generator.

Some Answers

Two basic kinds of generators are portable and automatic standby generators. Within seconds of an outage, an automatic backup system supplies power directly to the electrical circuit breaker box. Once utility power returns, the generator shuts itself off. It operates on natural gas or liquid propane vapor and sits outside just like a central air-conditioning unit. Automatic standby generators from Generac Power Systems are considered the easiest to install and more environmentally friendly than gasoline-fueled units.

Additionally, Generac now offers the most affordable automatic standby generator on the market, protecting the home automatically for as little as $1,699 plus installation costs.

Generac offers a wide range of portable power options from 800 to 17,500 kilowatts to cover any immediate power needs in the event of an emergency.

The Generac XG Series offers premium power quality for home applications. The engines can last three to four times longer than many competitive engines. One of the six models in the line, the XG8000, has won several product awards, including the Member Tested & Recommended Seal of Approval from the Handyman Club of America and an Editor's Choice Award from Popular Mechanics magazine.

Safety Suggestions

Since the purpose of owning a generator is to increase home security and safety, remember to think about safety when using the generator. Standby generators are generally safer to use than portables if installed properly. In any case, never operate a generator indoors or in a partially enclosed outdoor area. Using a fan or opening doors and windows near the generator will NOT provide sufficient carbon monoxide (CO) ventilation. Also, do not overfill a generator's fuel tank or add fuel while its engine is running or hot. Be sure to read your owner's manual thoroughly before operating a power generator for the first time.

Learn More

The American Red Cross says that for power outages, permanently installed stationary generators are better suited for providing back up power to the home. For safety tips on the use of portable generators, visit www.Generac.com or the Home Safety Council at www.homesafetycouncil.org/safetyguide/.

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