Prepare for Power Outage in Extreme Heat: Purchase a Generator

05/13/2023

Why do they matter?

Residential power generators can provide essential electricity to keep your house cool when power outages occur due to extreme heat.

What do I need to know?

There are two types of residential generators.

Temporary power generators: Temporary power generators are designed to provide electricity to a limited number of appliances and devices in a home for a short period. These generators are typically portable and can be moved around as needed. They are powered by gasoline, propane, or diesel fuel and come in various sizes and capacities to suit different needs. Temporary generators are cost-effective and ideal for use during a brief power outage. Still, they are not intended to power an entire home for an extended period.

Whole-house power generators: Whole-house power generators are permanent fixtures installed outside a home and designed to provide electricity to the entire house during a power outage. These generators are typically connected directly to the home's electrical system and are fueled by natural gas or propane.

Whole-house generators are larger and more powerful than temporary generators. They can run for several days or even weeks without interruption. These generators are a good choice for homes in areas where power outages are common or for families who rely on medical equipment that requires a constant source of power. However, they can be costly.

Where do I start?

You can purchase a temporary power generator and learn about critical guidelines for its safe use at a local home improvement store. Whole house generators are typically installed and serviced by electricians with special training.