Home backup generator
Extreme weather and construction activity or sudden mishaps, like a hurricane can cause power failure at the most unforeseen moment. Home standby generators are a boon to overcome circumstances like these with ease and safety. The portable generators provide much relief, comfort and security during times of power failure and emergencies. They can also be installed temporarily at homes for short term needs. With the help of this power backup system, the basic and minimum lighting, heating and essential requirements can be taken care of. Life need not come to a standstill with the power outage thanks to stand by generators.
Factors affecting the use of backup generators
- In some cities, the law prohibits the use of installing and using a generator as storing of fuel for the generator is not permitted by the fire safety laws. So before deciding to buy a generator, you should check the fire codes and laws pertaining to the use of a generator.
- The generators must be installed by a licensed professional when large amount of power is required and there are complex equipments to be powered.
- The generators emit the deadly carbon monoxide and make noise while they work. Storing diesel or propane used as fuel for the generator is highly dangerous and proper precaution must be taken when you install these generators.
- The generators should never be connected to the electrical devices directly. They should have a transfer switch through which the appliances should be connected. This transfer switch disconnects the existing power distribution system and connects the generator power to the devices. Without the transfer switch there is the danger of the electricity from the generator can feedback into the power cables and the whole power distribution system. That will cause a fatal accident for the person coming into contact with the wires.
- There are many points to be considered before selecting the correct generator. The power output of the generator is one of the main criteria to select the right generator. The output is rated either in watt or in kilowatt. The generator is usually powered by diesel, gasoline, propane or natural gas. It should be known as to how long can the generator run on one tank full of fuel, f the starting of the generator is from a battery or it should be started using pulling a cord manually. The transfer switch may be automatic or it may be manually switched on or off.
- A small portable generator without the transfer switch is sometimes used but with a strong and safe heavy duty extension cord. This is needed as the generator must be kept outside the house and where there is good ventilation. The generator emits dangerous carbon monoxide which is life threatening.
- A 5 kilowatt generator can normally power some lights, the refrigerator and microwave oven or alternatively a 240 volt water pump. When the pump is in use, minimum power should be consumed by lights or other gadgets. Exceeding the 5 kilowatt limit would pop up the circuit breaker or it may damage the generator sometimes. The power consumption of appliances can be found from the label or from its user manual. By adding up the wattage consumed by different appliances can determine how many of them can be used at a time.
- The generators using gasoline are the cheapest but they make more noise and quickly wear out than those using propane, natural gas or diesel.
- When the generator is about to run out of gas, the power consuming devices should be switched off. The generator should be shut off to allow it to cool down before the fuel tank is refilled.
- Care should be taken on not to spill the gasoline on the generator engine while it is still hot as it may cause a fire or explosion.
- When you are not using the generator for long periods of time, it is advisable to empty the fuel tank. The gas in the engine should be fully emptied by closing the entry valve and running it still it stops.
- Follow the user manual of the generator to know how to operate and maintain it in good condition.
- To prevent theft of the generator as it may be left unattended outside the house, a chain and lock can be used to secure it.
Transfer Switch
A manual transfer switch is vital for safe use of the portable standby generators. The transfer switch prevents the dangerous back feeding of electrical utility by isolating the circuits of general power supply from the generator. The generator must be connected properly with the transfer switch system to protect life and property. Improper connection can void your home owner's insurance in case of accident or injury. Depending upon the capacity of your generator you can select the circuits of appliances carefully to be used during power outage. Using the transfer switch, the power load can be manually transfered to each of the appliances.
Features of Home Backup Generators
The home backup generators generally come up with features like simultaneous AC/DC use, fuel tank capacity, gas gauge and means of starting electric supply. Home backup generators are also fitted with wheel kits that facilitate movement of the generator to any place easily and fast. It can be very convenient when you wish to use electricity for any outdoor activity.Importance of Home backup Generators
They provide not only comfort and relief but also security for your home, by helping not to abandon your home exposing it to looters during severe power outage. Most of the generators are fitted with low noise systems to enable you to keep it close to your home. Some home backup generators can keep track of hours of usage. Some homes need life saving equipment that need uninterrupted power supply and some medicines need refrigeration. In these cases, a home backup generator is indispensable. The residents of coastal areas with threats of hurricanes and tropical storms have to face frequent power outage. Some northern state residents suffer snowstorms that cause power failure for large areas. People residing in these areas must consider investing in a home backup generator as it is a must-have possession rather than a luxury. What better investment can there be for a family than a standby power source---a home backup generator.
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