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Portable generators make a good addition to any weather emergency plan for homeowners. 

Generator key in preparing for winter power outages
Published: Monday, January 11, 2010 7:48 PM CST

MILWAUKEE, Wis. – A major winter storm, with high winds, heavy snow, freezing rain and cold temperatures can occur at any time during the next several months.

These storms are often accompanied by extended power failures. When the power fails, a backup emergency generator can be an essential tool. Portable generators make a good addition to any weather emergency plan for homeowners.

A winter storm’s aftermath can affect a community for an unpredictable amount of time.  In 2009, an ice storm in Missouri, Kentucky, Ohio, Arkansas, and West Virginia left an estimated 1.3 million homes and businesses without electricity—for weeks in some areas. Many homes experienced frozen and burst pipes and flooded basements.  With no lights, no heat, and no appliances, the situation became critical for many.

“It’s important to plan for a winter weather emergency,” according to Joe Kampschroer, vice president of retail sales and marketing for Northshore Power Systems, the exclusive licensee for Honeywell generators. “Homeowners may need portable power for furnaces, sump pumps, well pumps, lighting, kitchen appliances, as well as for running key electronics such as phones, radios, televisions, or computers.”

When choosing a portable generator, Kampschroer says homeowners should look for these features:

Enough power.  Choose a generator with enough wattage output to power the appliances you’ll need in an emergency.  Look for continuous running watts rather than surge wattage ratings.

Clear starting instructions. Starting a portable generator only takes a few simple steps.  But, this can be confusing when the power is out.  Look for a model that includes clear instructions posted on the generator as well as 24-hour phone support.

Sufficient electrical outlets. A portable generator should have enough receptacles for the devices a homeowner wants to run.   Models that include a multi-outlet cord offer greater convenience.

Run time. Look for a generator that will run through the night on a single tank of gasoline for greater convenience.

Portability.  Choose a generator equipped with wheels and handles

Generator Safety

When the power goes out, a homeowner’s first thoughts are to get the lights back on as soon as possible. As with any connection to a voltage supply source, caution is urged. Kampschroer advised that when using a portable generator; observe the following important safety rules:

Never run a generator inside the house or a garage. Running engines give off carbon monoxide fumes, which can be lethal.  Think of a portable generator like your car, and run it in a well ventilated area, not a closed space where fumes can accumulate.

Never back-feed your home’s electrical wiring system by using a cord with two plugs.  This can be dangerous to you and your neighbors.  Either plug appliances directly into the generator with power cords that are in good condition or have an electrician install a certified transfer switch.

Be careful when refueling the portable generator.  It is best to allow it to cool down between fills.

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For more information, call Northshore Power Systems at (414) 332-2375 or visit www.honeywellgenerators.com

Source: Northshore Power Systems