Why Installing an Emergency Generator is a Smart Investment for Your Home
Have you seriously considered having an emergency generator installed at your home? Many people find themselves in the unfortunate situation of experiencing prolonged power outages due to various reasons, such as hurricanes, solar power instabilities, and even extreme weather events. In this article, we will explore the benefits of having an emergency generator and why it is a smart investment for your home.
Effects of Power Outages on Homeowners
The most recent experience with Hurricane Ike serves as a stark reminder of how crucial having a backup power source can be. Our home was without electricity for 6 days, while the rest of the neighborhood had power restored within 1 to 2 days. Our street faced a unique challenge when a tree fell on a transformer, affecting a specific area. On the fifth day, a friend's generator was no longer needed, and I borrowed it to help us regain access to essential services like refrigeration and some basic household functions before the power was restored.
The Importance of Having a Backup Generator
According to my calculations, the loss of food in our freezer would have been approximately $150. Instead, I leveraged the opportunity to host a large barbecue and feed friends and neighbors, effectively preventing this loss. This experience taught me the value of having a backup generator, especially when faced with significant outages.
Personal Experience with Extended Power Outages
Four years after Hurricane Ike, my home experienced two relatively long outages: one lasting 3 hours and the other 5 hours. In both instances, a transformer outside our neighborhood was damaged by a reckless driver. Although we have solar power, both outages occurred during the day, and our system was grid-tied with no battery backup. This meant that when the power was out, our solar panels were essentially useless, as they require grid power to function.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Backup Generators
For most individuals, the cost of having a standby generator available is substantially less than the potential losses that can be incurred from a prolonged power outage. In my New Jersey neighborhood, which lost power for two weeks due to Hurricane Sandy, the impact was significant. Houses without power were forced to leave because they lacked running water. Refrigerated and frozen foods were lost, and those relying on sump pumps for moisture control experienced flooded basements. My generator more than paid for itself by keeping home functions running smoothly during such a crisis.
Strengthening Your Home's Resilience
Given the potential threats to the electrical grid, such as aging infrastructure and environmental factors, it is essential to consider investing in a backup generator. Additionally, consider complementing your generator with a robust solar power system that includes battery backup, providing a more comprehensive solution to potential power outages.
In conclusion, having an emergency generator installed at your home is a prudent decision given the uncertainties of the modern world. By preparing for potential power outages, you can safeguard your home and your quality of life.
Consider the cost of potential losses versus the cost of a generator. Your peace of mind during a crisis could be invaluable.