When hurricane season starts, homeowners in coastal areas need to make sure they are prepared. From damage done by hurricane-force winds to a loss of power, homeowners often face problems during this time of the year. Thankfully, there are some steps homeowners can take to ensure they are ready for hurricanes. With a generator installation, a loss of power will no longer be an issue when hurricanes strike.
Preparation Is Key to Handling Hurricanes
Once the rain starts pouring and the wind is howling it may be too late for homeowners in St Simons Island to prepare. It is best to prepare well before hurricane season strikes, which is in June. Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th. Aside from having emergency supplies, homeowners also need to make sure they seek professionals for help with the installation of a generator.
During the most serious of hurricanes, the island can lose power for weeks at a time. This is why so many homeowners on St. Simons Island have made the smart move to have a generator to provide them with electricity. Not only is it important to have a generator, but it is also wise to get help from an electrician to ensure it can be used safely and effectively.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Generator?
When the electricity goes out, it’s difficult to do even daily tasks. Of course, one of the biggest benefits of having a generator is convenience. No homeowner wants to be without their lights, AC, or fridge. There is also the benefit of safety.
Many injuries occur when the electricity is out because people simply cannot see. There is a greater chance of trips and slip-and-falls in the darkness, which can cause serious injuries. Keeping the electricity on with a generator also leads to safer food storage, which will help prevent foodborne illnesses from arising. A generator also gives you access to televisions and radios for emergency information.
How to Choose the Right Generator
There are a lot of choices when it comes to generators. Homeowners who wait until the middle of hurricane season may find they pay exorbitant prices. It is best to choose a generator when they are not needed. The following tips should assist homeowners in making a generator purchase.
- First, homeowners will need to know the total wattage they need in a generator. This is not always an easy decision. Most homeowners rely on professional electrical services to help ensure they make the right choice.
- Homeowners will also need to decide on a fuel source. Some generators run on natural gas, gasoline, diesel, and propane. Homeowners will need to make sure they have access to a steady supply of fuel.
- The decibel rating of the generator is also an important consideration. Some units can be very loud and could be disturbing to neighbors. Choosing the right decibel level is essential for quiet operation.
To ensure the right level of power is offered, many homeowners rely on electricians to help them make a decision. Although there are undoubtedly many portable options on the market, most homeowners feel more confident having a whole-house generator to provide for their electricity needs during the aftermath of a hurricane.
Whole-House Generators
While portable units are ideal for people who experience only an occasional power outage, something more substantial is necessary during hurricane season on the island. One of the biggest benefits of whole-house generators is that they do not need humans to turn them on. Even if a homeowner is away from home, their generator will spring into action when the power goes out, so their food will not spoil and their home will be protected.
One of the biggest considerations when it comes to choosing a whole-house generator is the cost. If a homeowner already has access to a fuel source, the costs of installation will be reduced. Seeking professionals for help with choosing the right generator will assist individuals in staying on track with their budgets.
Whether a homeowner chooses a portable generator or a whole-house model, they must understand how to use it safely. Portable models are considered less safe because they do not have the added safety features of whole-house models.
Full Moon Lighting and Electrical has been proudly serving the residents of St Simons Island for many years. We offer residential and commercial electrical services and a wide range of repair and installation services, to meet our customers’ needs.