Generators are backup power systems that supply electricity during power outages. Home generators are gaining in popularity for many reasons. Generators can be used as an alternative source of power for an outdoor project as well as in an emergency. Generators are able to provide power for lights, your stove, fridge, heating and air conditioning units or any other electrical devices that are in your home. Of course you will have to get the right size generator for the equipment that you will want to run.

Home generators can be either permanent or portable. They are not difficult to operate or maintain. Portable generators need to be serviced ever few months. That may require a tune up, an oil change and maybe even changing out the fuel. Generators can cost you a little to service but when the power is out and your generator kicks on you will be glad you not only have it but that you maintained it.

Portable generators range in cost between a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on their capacity and features Portable generators are generally suited for providing the home with enough power to run a few lights and 1 or 2 appliances if the power goes out. Portable generators require extension cords that will need to be plugged into the things you want to run. A portable generator covers you when your current regular electrical company encounters an electrical outage. Power outages that occur during storms are often associated with a downed power line and can last for hour’s even days. Others occur for various other problems such as a car hitting a power pole and usually don’t last long.

The permanently installed home generators are great to maintain electricity in homes during prolonged blackouts. Called “Standby Generators,” they generally cost considerably more than the portable type, but at the same time, they produce enough power to heat, cool and light up your entire home. Standby generators also require yearly maintenance, they contain engines that turn the generator and some are designed to run on propane or natural gas. Others came with a built in fuel tank for diesel or gasoline. Gas and Diesel engines produce toxic fumes so care needs to be taken when you decide where to place this kind of equipment.

Stand by Generators also require Transfer Switches, either manual or automatic. The automatic switch will transfer the power to the panels when the power goes out. A manual switch will have to be switched on when by you when the power goes out. These transfer switches should be installed by a licensed electrician.

Wind power is also a viable solution in some areas and is one of the safest and cleanest sources of power that we have. Wind turbines produce electric power which can be harnessed in battery packs and fed right into your home. Wind power has become so efficient in certain places that the excess can be sold to your local power company. Some cities regulate what you can and cannot do in certain areas. Be aware of regulations in your area.

Home generators are gaining in popularity for many reasons. The infrastructure of the nation in most areas is growing old. The world is in turmoil and we are constantly hearing about disasters in all areas of the world. We need to be aware of what could go wrong in the area where we live. A generator would certainly help when we lose power. At preparednesstools.com we want you to be prepared for as many situations as possible.