When regions of the world experience tumultuous the interest in securing backup power increase dramatically. Past and present news reports of tornadoes, hurricanes, tropical storms, fires, snow and ice storms can knock power out for thousands of homes, and inspire people to look for ways to avoid the inconveniences and potential danger of not having power.
Remember Puerto Rico?
Hurricane Marco hit Puerto Rico on September 20, 2017 knocking out power for 85% of the 3 million people living there. The next month, the governor said he hoped to have 95% of the power back online by December. The people of Puerto Rico were without cell services and lifesaving equipment like ventilators and dialysis machines. They couldn’t use credit or debit cards. Lines at the gas stations were hours long. The Army Corps of Engineers had been tasked by FEMA to install generators. Some restaurants and stores are open because they are being powered by generators.
It is now November of 2020 and 100% of the power usage in Puerto Rico has still not been restored.
Back up power will make a difference if damaging weather knocks electricity out for a community or an island. But for how long?
How long will a gas generator continuously run?
A natural gas generator will run as long as it is required to run. A natural gas line will always have the pressure it needs to operate. During a power outage, the line will continue to have pressure. A generator powered by natural gas will automatically turn itself on and run until the main power source is restored.
How long will generator run on propane?
A generator powered by propane will run until the propane supply is exhausted. Most propane tanks, either above or below ground, are 500 to 1,000 gallons. Expect a propane-powered generator to burn 2-3 gallons an hour. A 500-gallon tank will power your home continuously for a week. A 1,000-gallon tank will last for 2 weeks.
What size generator should I buy?
A 22 kw generatorwill power a 3-4,000 square foot house. It will run the HVAC equipment and the washer or oven at the same time. Ensure the propane lasts longer and more effectively by selectively choosing the use of appliances while the generator is in operation. The other option is to install a larger generator to power more of your electrical systems in the house.
Is a generator affected by weather conditions?
Rain and even torrential rain will not affect its operation. Generators should be elevated if placed in known flood areas. If the equipment is submerged it may damage the air-cooled engine when water is sucked into the block. Moisture of any kind can damage a generator.
Is a generator covered by homeowners’ insurance?
Check with your insurance company to confirm your generator is covered under a homeowner’s policy in the event of a flood or weather damage to your generator.
How long will a generator last?
A generator that is regularly maintained will last 30-40 years. Maintenance is generally required for any equipment that utilizes an engine for power. CM Mose & Son offers a comprehensive maintenance program for customers purchasing a Generac Generator.
When is the best time to buy a generator?
The best time to get a generator is before you need one. C.M. Mose & Son ships Generac Generators all over the U.S. Call for a quote. Due to the recent local demand, it is best to get an appointment for a quote as soon as possible.
Weather that knocks out power can hit anytime. The inconvenience and potential dangers are real when electricity is unavailable. The boy scouts had it right with the motto “Be prepared.” Be prepared with a Generac Generator fromC.M. Mose & Son, Kansas Citys’ reputable and reliable source for generators,electrical serviceandheating and coolingservice, repair, and installation.
FAQs
The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator. To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions.
How long can a standby generator run continuously? ›
Manufacturers typically recommend that your generator run continuously for no more than 500 hours maximum. A portable generator, however, should only run continuously for shorter periods of time – between six to 18 hours, depending on the model.
What are the disadvantages of a standby generator? ›
Cons: Home standby generators are pricier to buy, and installation costs can range from a few thousand dollars to $10,000 or more. That's because you might need an electrician plus subcontractors who can handle the plumbing for a gas or propane line and build a steady permanent base for the generator.
What is the difference between a generator and a standby generator? ›
A portable generator is an immediate but temporary solution powered by gasoline, while a home standby generator is an automatic, permanent backup power solution powered by natural gas or liquid propane.
What happens if you overload a standby generator? ›
Every portable generator comes equipped with a breaker for a good reason. When you overload your generator by drawing too much energy, this breaker will trip. It's an essential safety mechanism designed to protect your generator from damage and prevent potential hazards.
What is the maximum time allowed for a legally required standby generator? ›
Current supply shall be such that, in the event of failure of the normal supply to, or within, the building or group of buildings concerned, legally required standby power will be available within the time required for the application but not to exceed 60 seconds.
Is it okay to leave the generator on all night? ›
If no appliances are running, shut the generator off. If you are just running a few lights, using other sources may cost less than running the generator. Do not leave a running generator unattended; turn it off at night and when away from home.
Is it okay to run a generator 24 hours a day? ›
While some generator models can run anywhere from eight to 12 hours, or even for multiple days, generators should never be left to run for weeks or months at a time. Essentially, this comes down to generators' engine construction, which requires not just fuel, but regular lubrication and routine maintenance.
Do standby generators turn off automatically? ›
It turns on automatically, whether you are home, away, or on business and will turn off automatically once power is restored to your home. This means that you won't have to monitor the unit in case of a power outage.
What is the main problem with generators? ›
Battery failure is the most common generator issue. Batteries wear down with age, providing less and less power as time goes on. Knowing the service life of your generator's battery will ensure you know to replace it before it stops working.
As we mentioned earlier, the average whole home generator lifespan is between 20-40 years. However, this number is just an average. There are a number of factors that can affect where your specific situation falls on this spectrum – which we've discussed in this article.
Does it hurt a generator to run without load? ›
Operating a diesel generator set at load levels less than 30 percent of rated output for extended time periods impacts the unit negatively. The most prevalent consequence is engine exhaust slobber, which is also known as exhaust manifold slobber or wet stacking.
How safe are standby generators? ›
The biggest safety hazard to watch out for when using any kind of generator is carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that is colorless and odorless. It's produced any time gas is burned. If a person breathes in carbon monoxide it can be deadly.
Do standby generators give off carbon monoxide? ›
Generators emit far higher levels of carbon monoxide than an automobile. Opening doors and window or using fans will not prevent CO build-up in the home. The initial symptoms of CO poisoning resemble ordinary flu symptoms.
How far should a standby generator be from the house? ›
How Far Should A Standby Generator Be Placed Away From The House, Windows, and Doors. Local codes suggest at least 18 inches away from anything flammable, and 5 feet away from windows and doors. Always follow your local municipal building codes.
What are the precautions of electric generator? ›
Only operate the generator outdoors in a well-ventilated, dry area away from air intakes to the home. To avoid electrocution, plug individual appliances into the generator using heavy duty, outdoor rated cords with a wire gauge adequate for the appliance load.
