Oklahomans are no strangers to power outages. It wasn’t long ago that our power was out for days on end and not just a few hours. You probably remember the ice storms that so many without power to their homes. No matter the length of time the power is out it can be frustrating and costly for homeowners. Having a backup generator can be very helpful to get you through those unfortunate outages regardless of how long they last. Choosing the right option for you can be a little overwhelming. There’s a lot more to it than just price but it’s not a straight comparison either. We’re going to give you the basics below and hope that it helps you on your generator journey. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call us.  

PORTABLE GENERATORS

Portable generators are independent units that use an engine to turn a generator and produce electrical power. Outlets on the generator allow connection to tools or appliances with extension cords or generator power cords. In order to supply a home with power, including heating and air conditioning, portable generators connect to a manual transfer switch and power previously selected circuits.

Steps to Use Your Portable Generator:

• Ready your generator and position outside.

• Fill it with gasoline.

• Run extension cords indoors, or a generator cord to an inlet box. (We recommend the inlet box.)

• Start the generator.

• Add appliances to the cords or turn the transfer switch to generator power.

• Refuel as necessary (Up to several times a day)
  Disconnect appliances, 
  Turn off generator, 
  Let cool, 
  Refuel. 
  Restart and reconnect.

You’re likely to avoid this song and dance during a severe storm.  You’ll also need a way to shield the portable generator from the weather, remember to NEVER run a generator inside. Portable generators require maintenance every 100 to 200 hours which includes an oil change, oil and air filter change, and new spark plugs. 

We recommend having a generator inlet box installed by a licensed electrician for several reasons. First, extension cords pose several hazards, including an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s also important to note that extension cords won’t supply power to a furnace or any other hard-wired appliance or overhead light. A manual transfer switch for portable generators powers any circuit selected during installation, eliminates extension cords, simplifies use, and makes a safe connection to the home electrical system. Your generator inlet box is hardwired to the manual transfer switch to make the connection easy. You plug the portable generator into the inlet box just like you would plug your outdoor holiday lights into an outdoor outlet.

STANDBY GENERATORS

A home standby generator has similar components to a portable generator, but the design allows it to work automatically. A microprocessor-based controller works in conjunction with an automatic transfer switch that can supply the entire home or some essential circuits with power. You will not need extension cords because the home’s electrical system and service panels are permanently connected to the standby generator. There is also no need to refuel the generator because it is connected to the home’s existing natural gas supply or propane tank. Since they are connected directly to a fuel source they can run for days or weeks even where a portable generator would need to be refueled at appropriate intervals. 

When the power goes out, the standby generator turns on automatically to supply the home with power whether you’re on vacation, at work, or in bed sleeping. Like portable generators, standby generators do require maintenance but generally once a year is sufficient. 

For Oklahomans a generator option for backup power is a must. Which makes the most sense for you will be a personal decision. Some homeowners prefer the standby generator because there’s no fuel to store, weather isn’t a concern, and automatic operation ensures your septic pump and refrigerator run as scheduled. Others will prefer the portable generator because of its versatility and price point. If you decide the portable generator is the choice for you you’ll want to make sure a licensed electrician installs a generator inlet for you. If you’ve got questions please give us a call.