Generators: What You Need to Know
Spring brings unpredictable weather and intense storms. Are you ready for the next power outage? As a homeowner, it’s important to know how to keep your home powered up during times of emergency. Generators are a great tool that can provide reliable and safe energy when the power goes out. Let’s explore everything you need to know about generators for homeowners.
Types of Generators
There are two main types of generators – portable and standby. Portable generators are smaller units that can be easily moved around and stored away when not in use. They are typically powered by gasoline, diesel, or propane and have enough juice to run several small appliances at once. Standby generators, on the other hand, are permanently installed outside your home and connected directly to your electrical system. These larger units run on natural gas or propane and can power an entire house with no problem at all.
Safety Considerations
When using a generator, safety should always be top priority. If you’re going with a portable generator, make sure it is at least 10 feet away from your house – this ensures that no dangerous fumes will seep inside your home. It’s also important to keep the generator dry; never operate it in wet weather or near standing water as this could cause electrocution or shock hazards. Keep an eye on your fuel levels too so that you don’t run out while the power is still off!
How to Fuel Your Standby Generator
Choose the right fuel. The type of fuel your generator uses will depend on the model, so be sure to consult your owner's manual. The most common types of fuel are gasoline, propane, and natural gas.
Store fuel properly. Once you've chosen the right fuel, you need to store it properly. Gasoline should be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Propane should be stored in a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources. And natural gas should be shut off at the main valve and disconnected from any appliances.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. When it comes time to actually fill your generator's tank, follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter. Overfilling the tank can lead to engine damage, while under-filling it will result in poor performance.
Use fresh fuel whenever possible. Gasoline has a shelf life of about three months, so if you can't rotate your stock regularly, be sure to use fresh gas whenever possible. If you do have to use old gas, add a fuel stabilizer to help prevent engine damage.
Installing Your Generator
If you decide on a standby generator, installation is key; these require professional installation because they need to be properly connected to your electrical system before they can work safely and effectively. During installation, licensed technicians will ensure that everything is hooked up correctly and compliant with local codes – if done correctly, these generators should last for years without any major problems or repairs!
Oakland Oil & Propane Can Help
Generators can be a great resource for homeowners who want reliable access to electricity during times of emergency or power outages. Before investing in one for yourself, you need to consider which type is best suited for your needs (portable vs standby) as well as any safety considerations that may come into play when operating it. Contact us with questions or for help with choosing the right fuel source for your generator. Scheduling professional installation will help ensure that your generator runs smoothly each time it is used! With the right setup and proper maintenance over time, you can rest assured knowing that your home has reliable backup energy whenever you need it most!