With the worst of hurricane Michael passing to our south, it’s still a reminder that an emergency generator should be on your shopping list. Storms like Irma, Nate and Snowmaggedon are still fresh in our minds; now is the time to get prepared before the next storm hits.
Power outages are generally short lived, but storms always have the potential to leave us powerless for any length of time. When Snowmaggedon hit the Atlanta Metro area, thousands of people lost power for more than a few days. And power outages can be deadly when extreme cold temperatures are in the forecast. Residents of south Georgia continue to endure power outages from hurricane Michael, and may be without power for weeks to come.
What to Look for in an Emergency Backup Generator
So should you get a backup generator? Of course it all depends on your budget and family needs. Here are a few things to consider:
Price – Home standby generators can start at roughly $5000. Whole home systems can run as much as $20k. However, these generators provide the automatic backup power you need to protect your home and family during a power outage. Connected to your existing LP or natural gas fuel supply, it kicks in within seconds of sensing power loss – automatically – and runs for as long as necessary until utility power returns. Choose from just enough power to cover essential circuits or whole house coverage.
Family Size – Are there small children or elderly people living with you? Small children and the elderly are for more susceptible to the cold than adolescents and adults. That’s why we go out of our way every day to make sure they are taken care of. While a few hours might not make a big difference, a few days will.
Fireplace – In a pinch, a fireplace can keep a home warm for as long as you have fuel. Wood is the obvious choice, but a natural gas fireplace can also do the job, and is much safer. Just make sure you cover up the gaps on doors and windows; otherwise you’ll just be sucking in cold air.
Portable Generators – Depending on the size and power output of your unit, this might be enough to get you through several days. Just be ready to hoard the appropriate amount of fuel before the big storm is expected to hit.
Have More Questions? Ask Shockley
Home standby generators can make a difference in your life when Mother Nature hits hard. Ask Shockley about the appropriate generator for your home or commercial property. At Shockley, we have the knowhow and expertise to tackle even your most difficult electrical needs, as well as lifetime guarantee on our work. With over a decade of experience, we take great pride in being the top-rated electrician Marietta calls first.
