Cold winter weather means winter storms aren’t far off. This year, when you hear extreme weather in the forecast, you can quit worrying if you will have power. A home standby generator eliminates this fear and ensures you will have adequate heat to keep your family safe and comfortable.

Why do I need a home backup generator?
Extreme weather is unpredictable by its very nature. Since the number one cause of power outages in the United States is weather, it becomes essential for you to prepare ahead of time. You cannot control the weather, but you can help your family be prepared when it strikes.

Weather-related causes of power-outages

• Lighting
• Ice storms
• Hurricanes
• Rain/Flooding
• Earthquakes

Coastal regions like Virginia are especially susceptible to many of these weather conditions. Power outages are often both costly and dangerous for those affected.

Extended black outs can result in hundreds of dollars in wasted food from non-working refrigerators and freezers. Power outages can also be extremely dangerous. An ice storm in the dead of winter can leave unprepared families without the use of their heating system to stay warm.

How does a backup generator help?
A home backup generator is installed at your home and wired into your existing electrical system. It includes a transfer switch, which will automatically recognize when the power supply to your home has stopped. The generator will then turn on and restore power to your home.

Since the generator includes a transfer switch, there is little the homeowner needs to do to ensure they have power in emergency situations. Once installed, the generator takes care of providing backup power to your home.

Safety Tips
Home backup generators are a great investment and provide immeasurable value in the midst of a power outage. But, as with all fuel appliances, there are a few safety concerns when using the generator.

1. Keep children away from the generator. Generators have an inherent risk of electrocution, electric shock and other hazards.

2. Store fuel properly. Make sure you store fuel for the generator only in approved containers out of the reach of children.

3. Turn off the generator before refueling. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, always ensure the generator is turned off before refueling.

4. Hire a licensed electrician. A home standby generator will be wired into your existing electrical system. A licensed professional should therefore perform all installation and repairs.

Be prepared for your next power outage with the installation of a stationary home backup generator. It will prove to be a great investment in your family’s comfort and safety.

For more information on generators, contact HVAC Warehouse online today.