Saturday, June 13, 2009

Can You Live Without an Emergency Generator?

Electricity is very important. We need electricity for communication, lights, entertainment, etc. However, there are times when the power goes off for extended periods due to ice, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes and other natural catastrophes. So what do we do then? How can big industries and corporations operate without electricity? Thanks to an emergency generator, people now have backup power whenever there is a black out.

However, there is a variety of these devices available in the market. They can come in different sizes. So how do you find the right size? In finding out the correct size for this device depends on the power needed during emergencies. One thing people need to know is that the more items on backup circuits, the bigger and more costly the generator is.

This device also comes in two types: permanent standby and the portable. So what is the difference? The permanent standby model is installed as part of the electrical system. It provides power to the building wiring. It also contains an automatic switch that prevents the generator from back feeding power into the utility lines. This protects the generator from damage when power is restored. However, with this type of emergency generator, you have to remember to let a licensed electrician install the device. The city or country building department must also inspect the switches and wiring. When the installation is complete, the local utility company should be notified a back up system is in place.

The second model type of this device is the portable unit. This model is usually used when there are only a few vital electrical circuits are needed. This is usually preferable for residential use. Circuits can be used for lights in the general living area of your home, television, furnace, refrigerator, sump pumps and water well pumps, to name a few. Nevertheless, with this type of emergency generator, you have to remember that the device should be of the right size. Some electrical motors in your home appliances and equipment can be ruined or damaged if they do not receive enough electrical current.

Therefore, before you decide to buy a model of your choice, you have to determine first which items are needed in an emergency. This will help you determine the total watts needed, which in turn determines the right generator size that you need. You can ask the help of an electrician to determine this or you can check with the manufacturer.

Because the emergency generator produces electricity, as back up power, thus there is a possibility that electrical current from it may back feed into the home's electrical system. This can cause damage or fire and can ruin equipment if it is not properly installed. So only, a qualified electrician should install it to your home electrical system. This will avoid the risk of damage and fire, as well as, prevent causing personal injury.

These accidents can also be prevented by the installation of a transfer switch. Some transfer switches automatically trip to generator power if there is a power failure. But some must be switched manually.

Lastly, a safety precaution, an emergency generator must be run outdoors as they burn fuel, which can cause fire. Generators are very important. However, people must be careful in choosing the right type. In addition, they must follow the safety guidelines to avoid the risk of damage, fire and personal injury.

Your guide to information on various types of generators such as a home emergency generator. We also provide information for consumers on various brands as well. For more information please visit our site today. http://www.generatorsinfosite.com/

By Martin Applebaum

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