An emergency generator is a backup power source that provides electricity when the primary power source is unavailable due to a power outage or other electrical mishap. This type of backup equipment can be used to power a variety of essential loads, such as lights, sump pumps and refrigerators — so if the energy stops, you can still see, flush and keep your food cold.
There are several factors to consider when choosing an emergency generator, including the size of the generator, the type of fuel, the noise level, the cost, and the warranty. It is important to choose a generator that is large enough to power the essential loads in your home or business.
The type of fuel should be based on the availability of fuel in your area, and the noise level should be considered if you plan to use the generator in a residential setting (or if you live in a densely populated area). As with big-ticket purchase, the cost of the generator should be within your budget, and the warranty should cover repairs and replacement parts.
If you need help finding, installing, fixing or replacing a generator, contact At Home Pros first to help you discover the top electricians and electrical contractors in your area..
Why you need an emergency generator
The main reason you need an emergency generator is in the hopes that you never have to use it. But if you do need power in the event of blackouts or electrical failures, your generator will be your saving grace, keeping your groceries (and sometimes medications) cold, your lights on, and your devices charged.
Emergency generators can provide peace of mind in the event of a power outage. By choosing the right generator and having it properly installed and maintained, you can ensure that your home or business will have power when you need it most.
Here are some of the many benefits of having an emergency generator at the ready:
- Provides power during a power outage
- Can be used to power critical infrastructure
- Helpful for keeping food and medicine cold
- Can be used to power sump pumps and other flood prevention equipment
- Critical source of power for communication equipment, including mobile phones
- Can be used to power security systems
Types of emergency generators
Generators are typically powered by gasoline, diesel or natural gas. It’s crucial to maintain appropriate levels of fuel, as an emergency generator without it is no use at all.
There are a few different types of emergency generators, and these devices differ in mode of operation and in terms of drive. The most common types of emergency generators (also known as emergency power generators or mobile emergency power systems) are portable and standby.
Here are some more details about these two different types.
- Portable generators: If there’s a blackout, you have to start up a gas-powered generator and plug your appliances into it one-by-one, or plug it into a subpanel. Depending on the power outage of the machine, portable generators can cost between $500 and $1500.
There are also some great battery-powered options as well, although in many cases, they’re not powerful enough or able to be used long enough to be considered generators.
- Standby generators: Powered by gas or propane, these generators start up automatically when there’s a blackout or other interruption of service. These types of generators are much more expensive, costing around $5,000 and putting out 7,000 watts of electricity, but this high price usually includes installation.
Whichever type of generator you decide on, it’s important to have it properly installed and maintained. The generator should be installed by a qualified technician and should be serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Best emergency generator brands
Since there are a variety of generator types and they all use different fuels, or combinations of fuels, there’s no one emergency generator that will be ideal for all homeowners. Here are the top four in several different categories.
- Honda EU2200i: This 2,200 watt generator is quiet and easy to start, and it has an helpful app that allows you to control it from the cozy confines of your house. In many tests, the Honda exceeds expectations of how many appliances or tools it could handle. Plus, it has an onboard carbon monoxide detector, like many modern generators.
- BLUETTI Portable Power Station: Using rechargeable batteries, this lightweight generator is small and can be tucked away onto a shelf, but it can charge multiple devices multiple times, or power appliances or laptops for several hours.
- Ryobi RYi2322VNM: This inverter generator is lower priced than some of the more expensive options like those offerings from Honda and includes an app that homeowners rave about.
Emergency generator maintenance
Here are some additional tips for using your emergency generator safely:
- Never operate a generator indoors. Generators can produce carbon monoxide fumes, which can be deadly.
- Never overload the generator. Make sure that your choice of generator is powerful enough to handle the loads that you need to power.
- Use extension cords only when necessary. Extension cords can create a fire hazard.
- Keep the generator clean and free of debris. This will help to prevent fires and other accidents.
- Disconnect the emergency generator from the electrical grid when it is not in use. This will prevent backfeeding, which can damage the electrical grid.
By following these safety tips, you can help to ensure that your emergency generator is well maintained and safe to use.
If you live in an area that is prone to power outages, an emergency generator is a wise investment. It can provide peace of mind and help you to stay safe and comfortable during a power outage. If you need help with your generator and it’s already been installed, contact the team at At Home Pros to be connected to electrical experts in your area today.