Power Outages in the Raleigh/Durham Triangle:

Why You Need a Standby Generator

When the power goes out, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can significantly disrupt daily life. Think about it: the stress of not knowing when your power will return, the loss of refrigerated food, and in more severe cases, the inability to operate life-saving medical equipment. For many homeowners in the Raleigh/Durham Triangle, power outages are an increasing concern due to the rise in coastal storms and extreme weather. These storms are more frequent and intense, and the effects can be devastating. As these events become more common, the need for a standby generator is no longer just a luxury—it’s a necessity.

This blog will cover three crucial things you need to know about using generators during blackouts. And if you’re living in Durham, NC, or anywhere in the Research Triangle metro area, call PowerMaster Electric today to learn more about how a standby generator can protect your home and family during the next power outage.

For All Your Generator Maintenance Needs in North Carolina

Three Important Things You Need to Know About Generators

1: The Right Ways to Use a Generator

Generators are invaluable tools when the power goes out, but using them correctly is critical. Incorrect usage can lead to dangerous situations, such as carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or even damaging your appliances. It’s essential to know the difference between portable generators and standby generators, as each has specific guidelines for safe operation.

  • Portable Generators: These are great for short-term power solutions but require manual setup. They should be used outdoors, away from windows or vents, to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Standby Generators: These are permanently installed outside your home and automatically activate when the power goes out. They are connected directly to your home’s electrical system and are much safer and more convenient than portable models.
Durham NC standby generator service for power outages during storms by PowerMaster Electric

Using a Generator Correctly

Here are key points to ensure you’re using your generator safely and efficiently:

  • 1
    Install It Properly: For standby generators, always use a professional installer like PowerMaster Electric to ensure proper setup and compliance with local codes in Durham County.
  • 2
    Place Generators in Open Areas: Never operate a portable generator indoors or in an enclosed space, including garages or basements, to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.
  • 3
    Avoid Overloading: Know your generator’s capacity and never plug in more appliances than it can handle.
  • 4
    Use Proper Extension Cords: If you’re using a portable generator, connect appliances using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords.
  • 5
    Shut Down Safely: To prevent accidents, turn off all connected devices and let the generator cool down before refueling.
  • 6
    Keep Dry: To avoid damage, ensure your generator is protected from moisture and remains in a well-ventilated, open area.
  • 7
    Test It Regularly: Whether you have a portable or standby generator, running it periodically ensures it’s ready for action when needed.

2: Proper Load Management

Understanding how much power you need during a blackout is essential. Generators, whether portable or standby, have specific wattage limits, and knowing how to manage your electrical load will prevent overloading and possible generator failure.

How to Calculate Your Power Needs

Start by calculating your home’s essential power needs. Make a list of the must-have devices during a blackout, such as refrigerators, lights, heating or cooling systems, and medical equipment. Each appliance will have a wattage requirement that you can usually find on the back or in the user manual. Add these up to understand your total power needs.

Distribute the Load

Once you know how much power you need, it’s crucial to distribute the load across your generator’s circuits. For portable generators, this means plugging in only essential items. This load distribution happens automatically for standby generators, but it’s still vital to ensure the generator can handle the total demand of your home’s essential systems.

Proper load management and power needs calculation for generators in Durham, NC homes

Consider an Automatic Transfer Switch

For homeowners in Durham, NC, and the greater Research Triangle area, adding an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) to your standby generator is a smart choice. An ATS automatically switches your home’s power source from the grid to the generator when an outage occurs, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Benefits of an Automatic Transfer Switch:

  • Convenience: No need to manually start or stop the generator.
  • Safety: Reduces the risk of electrical back-feed, which can be dangerous.
  • Seamless Power Transition: Ensures your home stays powered without interruption.

Before the next storm hits, make sure you have an ATS installed. PowerMaster Electric can help you assess your home’s needs and install the right solution.

3: Fuel Storage and Maintenance

One of the most common issues during extended power outages is running out of fuel for your generator. Storing fuel correctly and having backups is crucial, especially in areas prone to frequent storms, like the Raleigh/Durham Triangle.

Using the Correct Fuel

Generators run on different fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and natural gas. Make sure you know which fuel your generator uses and store enough for several days of operation. Keep the fuel in a safe, well-ventilated area away from heat sources. If you have a natural gas or propane standby generator, ensure your fuel supplier is reliable and can deliver additional fuel if needed.

Backup Fuel Storage Tips:

  • Keep Fuel Fresh: Gasoline has a limited shelf life, so rotate your stock and consider fuel stabilizers to extend its usability.
  • Store Safely: Store fuel in approved containers in a cool, dry place, away from living spaces.
  • Have Enough Fuel: Plan for at least 72 hours of generator use, especially during hurricane season.
PowerMaster Electric Offers Preventative Generator Maintenance

Generator Maintenance

Routine maintenance is key to ensuring your generator will perform when you need it most. Before the next blackout, check your generator’s oil levels, filters, and spark plugs. Even when there’s no outage, regularly running your generator helps keep it in top working condition.

PowerMaster Electric Offers Preventative Generator Maintenance

PowerMaster Electric provides comprehensive preventative generator maintenance services to ensure your generator is always ready. Our team will inspect and service your generator, ensuring all components are in working order. We’ll keep your generator running smoothly and efficiently, from oil changes to part replacements

Generac Standby Generator Installation & Maintenance

Choose PowerMaster Electric

Having a reliable standby generator in the Raleigh/Durham Triangle can mean the difference between comfort and chaos during a blackout. PowerMaster Electric has years of experience in generator installation, maintenance, and repairs. Our expert team is committed to providing top-tier services to keep your home powered and protected.

Don’t wait for the next storm to leave you in the dark. Contact PowerMaster Electric today for a free consultation on standby generator solutions. Whether you need a new installation, repairs, or maintenance, our expert electricians in Durham, NC, and the Research Triangle are ready to help. Protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind with a reliable generator from PowerMaster Electric. Call now or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation and ensure you’re prepared for whatever the weather brings.

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