What To Know About Portable Generators - A-Abel Family of Companies

Mother Nature can sometimes throw us a curveball in the form of power outages. Whether it’s a summer thunderstorm or a winter ice storm, losing power can be more than just inconvenient – it can impact safety, comfort, and even the functionality of essential appliances. That’s where portable generators come in handy, offering a reliable source of backup power when you need it most.

But are they the right solution for everyone? Let’s dive into the benefits, reasons for needing one, crucial safety tips, and how portable generators stack up against whole-home standby systems.

The Mighty Benefits of Portable Generators

Portable generators offer a range of advantages that make them a valuable asset for many homeowners:

Affordability: Compared to permanently installed standby generators, portable models have a lower upfront purchase cost, making them accessible to a wider range budgets.
Versatility: Their portability is a major plus; you can use them during power outages, but also take them along for a camping trips, tailgating, construction sites, and other outdoor activities.
Ease of Use (Generally): Most portable generators are relatively straightforward to operate. Once properly set up and fueled, they can provide power quickly.

Why Might You Need a Portable Generator?

Several scenarios might make a portable generator a wise investment for your home:

Occasional Power Outages: If power outages in your area are infrequent and typically short-lived, a portable generator can provide enough backup to keep essential lights, a refrigerator, and maybe a window AC unit running until the power is restored.
Powering Essential Appliances: You might prioritize keeping specific appliances running during an outage, such as medical equipment, a well pump, or a freezer full of food. A portable generator can be sized to meet these critical needs.
Recreational Use: As mentioned earlier, the portability factor makes them ideal for powering devices and appliances during outdoor activities where to access to traditional electricity in unavailable.
Temporary Use: If you’re undertaking a home renovation project in an area without immediate power access, a portability generator can provide the necessary electricity for tools and lighting.

Portable Generator Plug

Essential Safety Tips for Using Portable Generators

While convenient, portable generators must be used with caution to prevent serious accidents.

Never Run Indoors or In Enclosed Spaces: This is the most critical safety rule. Portable generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly. Always operate your generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area, far away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow CO to enter your home.
Keep Away from Rain and Moisture: Operate the generator on a dry, level surface. Protect it from rain and standing water to prevent electrical shock. If rain is expected, use a generator tent or canopy designed specifically for this purpose, ensuring proper ventilation.
Never Plug the Generator Directly into a Wall Outlet: This practice is extremely dangerous. It can energize the utility lines, posing a severe risk to utility workers and your neighbors, and it can also damage your generator and home’s electrical system. Always use appropriate extension cords to connect appliances directly to the generator.
Allow the Generator to Cool Down Before Refueling: Gasoline is highly flammable. Turn off the generator and let the engine cool completely before adding fuel to prevent accidental fires.
Store Fuel Safely: Store gasoline in approved, tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Away from heat sources and potential ignition. Use fuel stabilizer to prevent gasoline degradation during storage.

Portable vs. Standby: Choosing the Right Backup Power for Your Home

While portable generators offer a flexible and affordable solution for temporary power needs, whole-home standby generators provide a more comprehensive and automatic backup power system. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which might be right for you:

Portable Generator:
- Budget is primary concern.
- Power outages are infrequent and short-lived.
- You only need to power a few essential appliances.
- You are comfortable with manual setup and operation.
- You need a generator for recreational use.
Standby Generator:
- Frequent or extended power outages are common in your area.
- You need to power your entire home or numerous essential systems automatically.
- This includes HVAC systems, refrigerators, medical equipment, and security systems.
- You desire seamless power restoration without manual intervention. Standby generators automatically detect a power outage and turn on within seconds.
- Safety and convenience are top priorities. Standby generators are permanently installed with proper safety features and eliminate the risks associated with manual operation and extension cords.
- You want to maintain your lifestyle and comfort during an outage.

The Bottom Line

Portable generators are a practical solution for occasional power needs and offer great versatility. However, for homeowners who experience frequent or prolonged outages, or those who prioritize seamless, whole-home backup power, a professionally installed standby generator is a safer, more convenient, and ultimately more reliable long-term solution.

If you’re unsure which type of generator best suits your needs, the experts at A-Abel can help. We can assess your power requirements, discuss the pros and cons of each system, and provide professional installation, ensuring your home is prepared for whatever the power grid may bring.

FAQ’s:

What is a portable generator and what is it typically used for?
- A portable generator is a movable power source that can provide temporary electricity when your primary power goes out. They’re commonly used as backup power during outages at home, but also for recreational activities like camping or tailgating, and for powering tools at remote job sites.
Can I run my portable generator inside my garage, basement, or enclosed patio?
- NO. This is the most crucial safety rule. Portable generators produce carbon monoxide (CO), an invisible, odorless, and deadly gas. Always operate your generator outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from your home’s windows, doors, and vents.
What kind of extension cards should I use with my portable generator?
- Always use heavy-duty, outdoor-related extension cords are designed to handle wattage of the appliances you’re powering. Ensure they are in good condition and avoid running multiple lightweight cords or chaining them together, which can cause overheating and fire hazards.
How do I know what size portable generator I need for my home?
- The size you need depends on which specific appliances you want to power during an outage. You’ll need to calculate the total wattage (starting and running) of those essential items (refrigerator, lights, phone chargers, medical devices). A-Abel can help you determine the correct size and even install a manual transfer switch for safer home hookup.