Why Should You Buy a Backup Generator

Introduction

Let’s face it. No one really tends to think about buying a generator until you lose power from a power outage, major storm, or hurricane. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, the frequency of natural disasters has steadily increased since the 1970s, information which makes it all the wiser to be prepared. Everyone should have a backup generator for their household. It isn’t a luxury, more so a necessity that will help you when disaster strikes. If this doesn’t convince you, here are some more reasons:

• Make it through any power outages in relative comfort and safety
• It’ll help you prevent extensive damage by keeping required systems running when the power goes out, like sump pumps and more.
• Your food won’t waste! Your refrigerator will keep going even when the power goes off. It’ll help you resume your life as normal.

Generator Types

There are two types of Generators: Standby (whole house) generator or Portable generators.

Standby Generator

This generator is permanently installed outside your home, normally runs on propane or natural gas and turns on automatically the moment power goes off. Ensuring minimal interruption and supplying power to your home almost instantly. Standby generators are more expensive but are the best investment and smartest option if you live in areas prone to hurricanes or flooding.

A standby generator does more than keep your lights on. It can power your home like normal. It can help prevent major damage to your home by preventing frozen and burst pipes from prolonged power loss or damage that can cause thousands or tens of thousands of dollars to repair. A standby generator will also supply power to your sump pump, to prevent flooding during an outage.

Having a standby generator installed adds value to any home, particularly those in a hurricane, flooding, and tornado-prone areas and ultimately provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Portable Generator

These generators normally run on gasoline or diesel, though models that run on natural gas and propane are also available. Portable generators are a great option if you only need backup power occasionally and for short times.

Price and mobility are the main benefits of a portable generator. They are substantially cheaper than a standby generator and its size permits you to move it wherever you need it, either at home or when camping or other activities.

Other major factors that you need to consider before any generator purchase:

• Where you live
• Your home size
• Amount and types of appliances and/or equipment that require power.

You should always have a generator no matter what, as you never know when your power will go out! As you think about your power needs, and the number of times you lose power in any given year, consider talking with a professional to help you decide whether a standby or portable generator is right for your home.