Imagine that the power goes out at home all of a sudden. What if something like that happens during a heavy rain, in the middle of the night? If there is a small baby, an elderly person, or a sick person at home, the situation is even more serious, right? So, how much more valuable is it to be prepared than to be helpless and in the dark at a time like this? Well, something that comes to our aid in such an emergency is a Backup Generator, or as we call it a generator. Let's be aware of this.
Do I really need a backup generator?
Losing power at home can be a scary experience. This is especially true during natural disasters like storms and heavy rains. But instead of being powerless in times like these, we can be prepared. When power goes out due to a storm, flood, or other disaster, we never know when the power will be restored. In times like these, a backup generator at home can provide you with the power you need as well as a great deal of peace of mind.
But how do you choose the right generator for your home? To do that, you first need to think about what things your home would need if the power went out. We're not talking about the internet or video games here. We're talking about things like hot water, keeping food in the fridge from spoiling, and a water pump.
Simply put, make a list of the electrical appliances you absolutely need. Then, look up the information on each appliance to see how much power, or wattage, each one requires. Add it all up and get an idea of the total power you need.
Typically, a portable generator can produce between 2500 and 4500 watts of power. If your needs are limited to this amount, it is more than enough. If you use it wisely, you can survive without any problems even during a power outage. However, if your needs are greater than that, you will have to consider a Home Standby Generator.
What are the types of backup generators?
The price also varies depending on the type of generator you buy. There are two main types of backup generators: Portable Generators (which can be moved around) and Home Standby Generators (which are permanently installed). Both types have their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is important to research carefully and choose the one that best suits your home.
To make it easier to understand, let's look at these two types in a table.
| Generator type | Description | Advantages and disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Portable Generator | These are small in size, mounted on wheels, and run on fuel such as gasoline or diesel. They can be taken out and used whenever needed. | Advantages: Inexpensive, easy to store. Disadvantages: Must be operated manually, limited power, requires frequent refueling, high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. |
| Home Standby Generator (permanently installed) | These are permanently installed outside the home. They run on gas (LP Gas) or natural gas. They turn on automatically when the power goes out. | Advantages: Automatic operation, high power output, long operating time, increased safety. Disadvantages: Expensive, must be installed by a qualified person. |
How a Home Standby Generator Works
This permanent generator is operated through a transfer switch. This switch constantly monitors the power coming to the house. As soon as the current goes out, this switch disconnects the main power supply and connects the power coming from the generator to the house. This happens within a few seconds, so you don't even feel the power going out.
What are the benefits of a backup generator?
If you know how to use a generator properly, it has many benefits.
- Efficiency: You can get power quickly and easily when the power goes out. While a portable generator needs to be refueled, a standby generator is connected to the gas line and provides uninterrupted power for a long time.
- Convenience: With a standby generator, you don't have to do anything, it will start automatically when the power goes out. So your AC, refrigerator, water heater, etc. will continue to work. Even if it's portable, you can turn it on when needed and do the essential things.
- Save money: You won't have to throw away food, vegetables, and meat in the refrigerator when the power goes out. If you live in an area where the power goes out for hours on end, this is a good investment in the long run.
Safety is very important when using a Backup Generator!
This is the most important part of this article. Although a generator is a useful device, it can cause serious accidents if used incorrectly.
Carbon monoxide is a deadly danger.
The biggest and most serious danger when using portable generators is carbon monoxide gas . This is an odorless, colorless, and undetectable deadly poisonous gas.
Never use a portable generator indoors, in a garage, on a covered porch, or in a basement for any reason! Always store it outside in a well-ventilated, open area. If possible, install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Dangers during refueling
Do not refuel the generator while it is running or very hot. If fuel accidentally spills on a hot part, there is a high risk of fire or explosion. Turn off the generator and refuel only after it has cooled down completely.
Backfeed hazard
Connecting a portable generator directly to your home's electrical wiring can be dangerous for you, your family, your neighbors, and even utility workers who are repairing the power lines. This is because the electricity produced by the generator can backfeed back through the power lines. Therefore, if you connect a generator to your home's electrical system, be sure to have a qualified electrician install a manual transfer switch.
In the event of an emergency, for example a burn or a fall, immediately go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Standby generators reduce the risk of toxic gas emissions. Also, since lights are available when the power goes out, accidents such as falls and collisions in the dark can be prevented.
Now that you have a better understanding of a backup generator, before purchasing one, think carefully about your home's needs and make the best and safest decision for you and your family.
Take-Home Message
- Identify your needs: First, consider what you need most when there is no electricity. Determine the wattage of the generator accordingly.
- Choose the type: Portable or Standby, depending on your needs, budget, and security.
- Safety first! Never use a portable generator indoors or in a covered area. Always remember the dangers of carbon monoxide.
- Get professional help: If you are connecting a generator to your home's electrical system, be sure to get the help of a qualified electrician.
- Maintain properly: Properly maintaining any generator according to the manufacturer's instructions is crucial to its longevity and your safety.
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