The Atlantic hurricane season might have peaked in August, but it runs until the end of November. Considered the most violent storms on earth, hurricanes leave devastation behind, with one of the biggest casualties being electrical power. With several severe storms having already impacted the area, many homeowners have considered purchasing a backup generator. If you're one of them, here's what you should know before making the investment.

What is a Backup Generator?

It can be your first, best line of defense against the inconveniences that come with loss of power. From spoiled food to flooded basements and moldy walls, power outages can cause a host of problems and often last days or even weeks. A backup generator provides light, heat, and electricity until power is restored.

There are several models of generators available in a range of sizes and budgets. They've become increasingly popular throughout the Jacksonville area due to the chances of severe weather. But even if you're fortunate enough to avoid storm damage, your home can still benefit from having a backup generator. Downed trees, collisions with utility poles, and high power demand can all contribute to power outages.

How Does a Backup Generator Work?

Most backup generators are powered by either natural gas or propane and are comprised of two main components:

• The standby generator unit.
• An automated transfer switching system.

These components work in tandem to ensure a constant flow of electrical power is delivered to your home during an outage.

What Are the Different Types of Generators?

There are two types of backup generators:

• Portable versions that some people liken to oversized lawn mowers due to their noise, odor, and general filthiness. They're a good choice if you're looking for an inexpensive "insurance policy" for when the lights or other equipment that doesn't need a plug go out. Portable generators must be kept a good distance from the house to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. They also should not be used in rainy or wet conditions so require a dry surface and canopy-like structure.
• Permanent generators are a good investment because they supply more power than portable ones. Roughly the size of a second freezer, they're designed to keep your home fully powered for days in the event of an outage.

What is a Whole-Home Generator?

A whole-house generator is permanently connected to your home and automatically turns on when the utility power supply is interrupted. Power is supplied to your home within seconds of an outage occurring. and you and your family can carry on with your daily routine using appliances, lights, and electronics. A permanent generator should always be professionally installed by a qualified contractor.

Should You Purchase a Whole-Home Generator?

Easy to run, it only takes the first time your backup generator kicks into action for you appreciate how useful it can be. Though not inexpensive, they can be one of the best home equipment investments you make for the comfort and safety of your family and home.

Ready to move forward with a whole-house generator in your Jacksonville home? We've installed countless backup generators for your neighbors and would love to do the same for you. To learn more, give David Gray Plumbing a call at (904) 467-0784 or contact us online today.