Disaster Plan Key Shows Emergency Crisis Protection
Lightning flashes across the night sky, thunder cracks and the lights flicker—but come back on. Before you can breathe a sigh of relief, the lights are out again, but this time the house remains dark. From somewhere in the neighborhood you hear a loud BOOM and you know that a local power station was hit by lightning and fried. There you are—without air conditioning and lights, all while your electronic devices are losing battery life. Looking out the window to make sure that yours is not the only house without power, you notice one beacon of light next door. The growling hum of the neighbor’s generator only adds insult to injury as you sit alone in the dark.
Regretting the decision to not purchase a generator is the only thought running through your mind. Making a choice at the time seemed so difficult because there were too many variables to consider. It was too overwhelming to make a decision. However, looking at each consideration separately may help when making the major purchase of a back up generator.
Considering Portable vs. Permanent
Portable generators run on gasoline and are generally less expensive. They are easily moved around and stored. They are usually not big enough to supply power for more than a few key appliances such as lights, a radio, a television and refrigerator. You may also be able to power a sump-pump at half power, microwave, water-well pump or computer. Portables are not large enough to power conveniences such as air conditioning and other large wattage items.
Permanent generators provide much more power, but also come with a much higher price tag. Purchasing a permanent generator allows the entire home to be powered for extended periods of time. They are fueled either by natural gas or propane and start automatically when a disruption in electricity is sensed. A permanent generator may be a good choice when medical conditions are involved. People with some medical conditions require air conditioning or a positive airway pressure device used for sleeping. Certain medications may need to be refrigerated as well.
Back Up Generator Size and Wattage
| Small Portable3,000-4,000 wattsPrice range: $400-$800 for most | Refrigerator (600 watts)Microwave (1,500 watts)Sump pump (600 watts)Several lights (400 watts)Television (200 watts) |
| Midsize portable or small stationary5,000-8,500 wattsPrice range: $500-$1,000 for portables; $1,000-$2,000 for stationary | Powers same as small portable plus:• Portable heater (1,300 watts)• Computer (250 watts)• Heating system (500 watts)• Second pump (600 watts)• More lights (400 watts) |
| Large portable10,000 wattsPrice range: $2,000-$3,000 | Adds choice of:• Small water heater (3,000 watts)• Central air conditioner (5,000 watts)• Electric range (5,000 watts) |
| Large stationary10,000-15,000 wattsPrice range: $5,000-$15,000 plus installation | Powers same as large portable models, plus:• Clothes washer (1,200 watts)• Electric dryer (5,000 watts) |
Permanent generators provide much more power, but also come with a much higher price tag. Purchasing a permanent generator allows the entire home to be powered for extended periods of time. They are fueled either by natural gas or propane and start automatically when a disruption in electricity is sensed. A permanent generator may be a good choice when medical conditions are involved. People with some medical conditions require air conditioning or a positive airway pressure device used for sleeping. Certain medications may need to be refrigerated as well.
Generator Safety
Safety is the priority when using a generator. Reading all instructions is the first step to ensuring safe operation. Following all directions is the second order of business. A permanent generator must be installed by a professional and a qualified electrician. Improper installation could lead to malfunction.
Portable generator safety is a little more complex. The risk for human error is great while the margin of error is very small. Portable units can be overloaded which could lead to failure. NEVER use portable units in confined spaces such as inside the home or a work area. They emit deadly carbon monoxide which could be fatal if not vented properly. The fumes are flammable and could easily catch fire if located near combustible items. Always use grounded extension cords that are free of kinks or knots.
Don’t be left alone in the dark this storm season. Let the professionals at All Jersey Mechanical & Construction meet your home and business construction and maintenance needs. To learn more about back up generator safety and installation, click below!
