Who can forget the winter storms of 2009/2010? Perhaps the storm that stands out for many was the slow mover that pounded the Northeast Unites States at the end of February with heavy snow, rain, sleet and hurricane-force winds.
According to Fox News, more than 1 million residents lost power during that storm.
With last year's winter experience still fresh in our minds, purchasing a generator for home use may seem like a pretty wise investment.
But where do you begin? Purchasing a generator can be tricky business.
Here are a few of our most frequently asked questions when it comes to selecting a generator.
1.
What is an Automatic Standby System? An automatic standby system is simply a generator and a transfer switch.
The transfer switch allows the power from a primary power source - the utility company, to be transferred to a secondary power source - the automatic standby generator.
This means that the electrical circuits that you select will continue to operate when there is a power outage.
2.
How does an Automatic Standby System work? The generator continuously monitors the voltage in your home.
If there is any interruption in the electrical supply, the transfer switch safely disconnects the utility line and connects the power line from the generator.
All of this happens within just few seconds of losing power.
The beauty with this system is well, it's automatic.
It happens if you are at home, shopping or on vacation.
And for many, that means true independence and freedom.
3.
What size generator do I need? Generators come in a variety of sizes and selecting the right size generator is one of the most important decisions that you will make.
Many choose to cover basic items (the must haves) during a power outage.
Things like the water heater, sump pump, refrigerator, furnace and maybe a bedroom or two.
Others may need and want every single electrical circuit in their home covered.
Because homeowner requirements and safety concerns differ, a one size fits all approach does not work when selecting a generator.
And that's why it's important to work with a certified generator specialist who will listen to your concerns and needs to help you to make the right generator selection.
According to Fox News, more than 1 million residents lost power during that storm.
With last year's winter experience still fresh in our minds, purchasing a generator for home use may seem like a pretty wise investment.
But where do you begin? Purchasing a generator can be tricky business.
Here are a few of our most frequently asked questions when it comes to selecting a generator.
1.
What is an Automatic Standby System? An automatic standby system is simply a generator and a transfer switch.
The transfer switch allows the power from a primary power source - the utility company, to be transferred to a secondary power source - the automatic standby generator.
This means that the electrical circuits that you select will continue to operate when there is a power outage.
2.
How does an Automatic Standby System work? The generator continuously monitors the voltage in your home.
If there is any interruption in the electrical supply, the transfer switch safely disconnects the utility line and connects the power line from the generator.
All of this happens within just few seconds of losing power.
The beauty with this system is well, it's automatic.
It happens if you are at home, shopping or on vacation.
And for many, that means true independence and freedom.
3.
What size generator do I need? Generators come in a variety of sizes and selecting the right size generator is one of the most important decisions that you will make.
Many choose to cover basic items (the must haves) during a power outage.
Things like the water heater, sump pump, refrigerator, furnace and maybe a bedroom or two.
Others may need and want every single electrical circuit in their home covered.
Because homeowner requirements and safety concerns differ, a one size fits all approach does not work when selecting a generator.
And that's why it's important to work with a certified generator specialist who will listen to your concerns and needs to help you to make the right generator selection.