Do I Need a Generator? | Teems Electric

Power outages are never fun, but in the midst of a hot summer, they can truly be miserable.

Not only does the temperature in your house begin to climb, but food in your fridge and freezer will spoil and communication devices with batteries will run out. You may not be able to cook without electricity, and entertainment options will be limited.

When the power in your home stays out for an extended amount of time, it can create a dangerous situation and even force you to find another place to stay.

Even if you do not live in an area prone to natural disasters, you could still be at risk for an extended power outage due to equipment failure or a man-made disaster. A generator is a smart choice for all homes to provide supplemental power and keep you and your home safe while the power is out.

What Is a Generator?

A generator does not actually create electricity; instead, it converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. Basically, an engine kicks on powered by gas or oil and serves as an alternate form of power.

There are a few different kinds of generators, including portable ones and those installed directly to your home.

Portable generators are the less expensive option and can be stored until they are needed. These kinds of generators are a great option for short-term use, but they should never be run in an enclosed space

A standby generator, or one that is installed directly to your house, actually senses a power outage and kicks in automatically, meaning your home experiences very little time without some source of energy.

These generators keep your home safe while you stay comfortable, regardless of how long it will be before the power is back on. Standby generators typically last 15 years, making them a worthwhile investment.

Choose the Right Size

Once you have made the decision on which kind of generator to invest in, the next important step is ensuring you have the right size to meet your needs. There are several factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right size, including how many appliances you hope to run and what wattage of light bulbs you use.

You will also want to consider how often you will need to use the generator when you investigate the various sizes available.

If you live in an area prone to severe storms, a larger unit may be a better idea. Our weather can be rather volatile in North Georgia, and we experience tornadoes on a fairly regular basis during the spring and summer months. These factors make a standby generator a great choice for your home.

Use It Safely

Generators are an important safety tool when it comes to keeping your house running, but they do come with risks of their own. While running, a generator produces enough carbon monoxide to do serious harm in only a few minutes, which is why we previously mentioned that generators should never be run in an enclosed space.

Keep your generator dry, and only run portable generators on a solid surface. Fuel for generators should be stored in a secure outdoor location, and you should allow your generator to cool before refueling.

Adding either a portable or a permanent generator is a smart step for any homeowner. Not only does this supplemental power source mean your home will stay safe during a power outage, but it also means you can kick back and enjoy your favorite shows while your neighbors start another round of Monopoly!

Ready to learn more about your generator options? Contact us today and let our professionals get the installation process started.