Winter might be the festive season, but it is not the easiest time of the year. If you live in colder climates, winter means getting snowed in, blackouts, frozen pipes, etc. We must prepare ourselves to face the challenges of bad weather.
Winter power outages are very common in the colder regions. Blackouts can occur in places where it snows a lot. This happens frequently in storm-prone areas as well. Having no power during the cold weather is hazardous.
Owning a generator can help with emergency blackout situations. The kind of generator you will need depends on how frequently it occurs and for how long. Consider these factors while choosing the generator that can prevent winter power outages for your household.
What kind of Generators are out there?
There are numerous types of generators out there to choose from. Understanding the types is important to settle on the right one for your household.
Diesel Generators
These generators are usually stationary and have the capacity to produce a lot of energy. It can be used as a power source or a backup power source.
Some diesel generators are installed outside houses. These are programmed to automatically startup within seconds of a power failure.
Diesel generators are traditional machines. But, they are versatile regarding the range of power each machine can produce. You can find one small enough to produce power for a few appliances but also large ones that can run large factories.
Diesel generators are reliable, long-running machines that function well for years with a little maintenance. For more information on diesel generators, click on https://krugerpower.com.au/diesel-generators.html.
Portable Generators
Portable generators are generators that are mobile. It means that during times of need, you can move them to another place and run them. There are a few kinds of portable options out there.
Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are comparatively less-powerful options than traditional generators. However, inverter generators are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly.
Almost all inverter generators come with wheels, but the large ones are difficult to move. They can work perfectly well as home generators.
They make less sound than traditional generators. Hence, if you need a quieter environment, opt for inverter generators.
Some inverter generators come with inbuilt carbon monoxide detectors. The machine automatically shuts down when the emissions reach a dangerous level.
You can consider using an inverter generator in an area with an emission limit. They are more gentle on the environment.
All these nice features come at a price. Hence, inverter generators are more expensive than traditional ones.
Petrol Generator
Portable petrol generators can be considered as recreational generators. Petrol engines are lighter; hence this makes them a good option for generators that are mobile.
Opt for a petrol generator if you use it less frequently and do not use too many appliances. Petrol generators are quieter than diesel ones. You can use them during outdoor events.
Choose a Generator based on the Climate & Region
Cold Climates
If you live in an area with a colder climate, you will need a generator that runs longer. Cold areas are more prone to winter storms. This can lead to power outages that last for a longer period of time.
You will need a reliable machine that produces enough power to run your property. A generator that is connected to the power grid will immediately pick up that power is gone. Within seconds, you will have power during blackouts.
However, if winter blackouts are rare in your area, you can opt for a less powerful option. If you live in a city with more houses nearby, you must opt for a quieter option.
Remote Regions
Living in a remote area that is prone to bad weather can get dangerous during blackouts. If you do not have power, it will be difficult to communicate your issue to the outside world.
Having your own power generator can save you from becoming a victim of bad weather. In these cases, opt for a traditional machine that produces enough energy to run the entire property.
If you get snowed in, you can get stuck inside your house for days. In those cases, if help does not come soon, the situation will become very serious.
Having a reliable, safe machine providing power can help you remain stable until help arrives. You will be able to run your heater, refrigerator, etc.
How much Power will you Need?
You will have to calculate how much power your property needs. What appliances you want to use is a factor. You must choose a generator based on your power needs.
If you want to remain unaffected during blackouts, choose a traditional generator that can power your entire property.
You might want to only run emergency appliances. This might include the refrigerator, heater, lights, etc.
Your fridge might use 400 to 600 watts. Your portable heater uses about 1500 watts. For lights, the power needed will be less based on the type used.
You can use a portable inverter generator for such emergency uses. Even if they are expensive to buy, in the long run, it costs less to run them.
What Kind of Fuel You can afford?
If you are running on a fuel budget, you have to choose your machine carefully. If you get frequent blackouts, running a generator can become expensive.
Even though diesel is more expensive, it has better fuel efficiency than petrol. You can try running a less powerful diesel generator instead of opting for portable petrol ones.
An inverter generator is more fuel-efficient. However, your power needs and the initial buying price is a factor. An inverter generator can run your household if you can afford this type of generator.
Diesel generators are a good long-term investment. They are low maintenance but also last a long time when kept in good condition.
Final Thoughts
A good generator can prevent any problems of winter power outages. Choose on focusing on the generator price and fuel budget you can afford. You will also have to consider the area and climate before making a decision.
Remain unaffected if you can afford it or make life slightly easier with a good generator during winter blackouts.