How about one of our popular automatic home standby generators from Generac, that comes pre-packaged with a transfer switch for backup power.  These model runs on natural gas or propane, easily changes from one fuel type to the other.  Included is a built-in base pad for minimal site preparation keeping installation costs down.

And we can all agree Mom deserves nothing but the best.  So Generac includes in their packages a transfer switch options for every need.  There are choices from an 8kW model up to 20kW model that can power part of your house to managing all your electrical needs.  The transfer switch is smart enough to manage the startup of the air conditioners so no overloading of the generator occurs.  Mom will be impressed.

For some extra convenience, enjoy instant status updates without leaving the house with a wireless remote monitor.  No need to go outside during inclement weather to check your generator status.  Completely wireless and battery powered, the wireless remote monitor provides visual and audio alerts for maintenance and an audio alert when battery is low.  Small and compact about the size of a credit card with magnetic back for refrigerator mounting. Mom will be overjoyed at your thoughtfulness.

We’re not through yet! A state of the art battery charging system that helps prevents damage to the battery.  The Nexus control panel keeps track of hours of use, the maintenance schedule and will display alerts to keep you updated with the requirements of your generator, no guessing if it’s time to perform maintenance.  She will know when it’s time to call for service.

Mom will be surprised with the gift of an automatic home standby generator that provides peace of mind for an uninterrupted lifestyle.  So this Mother’s Day, give the Mom in your life a gift that shows her just how important she is.

They start automatically within moments of a power outage, and eliminate the need to haul a portable generator outside, using extension cords or connecting to a manual transfer switch to restore power.  And, unlike a portable can be operated in direct weather.  Rain, snow or wind won’t affect an automatic home standby generator since they have outdoor rated weather enclosures.

Automatic home standby generators run on natural gas or LP fuel supply something most of you already have in use at your home, it is less expensive to run than gasoline and you don’t have to refill.  Eliminates the hassle of storing gasoline which should be a secure place away from the home out of sunlight and only in approved containers.  Gasoline has a short shelf life, the most popular ethanol fuels may only last 1- 3 months.  Ethanol gasoline also absorbs water, the older the fuel the more water it has which could do damage to your equipment.

24/7 protection, whether you’re home or away.  Automatically starting to immediately protect your most critical areas, sump pumps, humidifiers, heat or air conditioner, refrigerators/freezers, plus lights and security.  Keeping the ambient atmosphere of you home stable, reducing the risk for mold, frozen pipes or flooded basements.

A permanently installed Automatic Home Standby Generator is the recommendation of the American Red Cross, considered safer to use than a portable, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide exposure. An automatic home standby generator is installed outside which will prevent the risk of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning that is more common with portable generators.

The graphical addition accompanies the same “Norwall PowerSystems” text that was originally created in 1997 – a name that you can count on for emergency backup power generators and associated equipment.

We would like to take the opportunity at this time to thank all of our loyal clients and friends for your great reviews, referrals and dedication over the years. Your commitment means so much and it drives us as we continue to incorporate the most professional and talented people–employees, partners, and advertisers into our company who bring bigger and better things to offer. Our progression to mastery is a steady and evolving path that continues to expand every day. Our new emblem is a visual image that symbolizes so much of where we have been and where we are going.

One of the primary burdens that winter weather brings is its capability to knock out utility power, causing a loss of heating and communication devices that are often so necessary. The severity of these storms has the ability to debilitate an entire region.

It is essential to prepare for winter weather before it hits home, with a home standby backup generator. A standby backup generator will give you piece of mind in knowing you have reliability when you need it.

Additionally, there are other things you can do to get prepared and keep safe in the event of a storm.

To prepare for a winter storm, you should do the following:

If the storm is approaching and you have not yet had a standby generator installed your best bet is to purchase a portable backup generator such as the Winco Home Power 6000 watt tri-fuel portable generator. Any generator is better than no generator. This backup supply will last 9 hours at a 50% load and runs on gasoline, natural gas and propane.

Prepare an emergency kit and keep it in an easily accessible location or locations. Your kit should include food, water and supplies to last you at least 72 hours. Your supply kit should also include items that will help you get through outages when your basic services have been cut off, such as electricity, water, telephone and computer.

Have salt and sand on hand, for melting ice and improving traction.

Snow shovels or snow removing equipment.

Make sure to have sufficient heating fuel, wood for your wood-burning stove and warm blankets and clothes.

Make a family communication plan, including what will happen if such and such an event/disaster occurs.

Keep your radio close by with extra batteries. Listen to the local news channels for weather updates.

Minimize travel but keep your vehicle full of gas and supplies if needed.

Make sure all pets are safe, sheltered and fed.

During the storm, you should do the following:

Stay warm and protected indoors. If you do need to drive inform others of your driving route, stay on main roads and keep your speed at a safe drive. Keep a phone with you in case of an emergency, with a list of emergency numbers to access easily.

Beware of ice and snow on the stairs, driveway, walkways and roads.

Avoid overexerting yourself while shoveling snow. Over work and stress can bring on a heart attack. Make sure to stretch before you attempt to shovel.

If your clothes are damp or wet, change them immediately to prevent loss of body heat.

Keep your eye on signs of frost bite including: loss of feeling or pale white skin. The most common areas are the fingers, toes, ears and nose. If you do detect frost bite get medical attention right away.

Hypothermia is another sign to watch for closely. Some signs are: uncontrollable shivering, disorientation, memory loss, drowsiness, exhaustion, slurred speech and incoherence. If you do detect someone with hypothermia it is important to get them to a warm, dry place as soon as possible. If they are wet, change their clothes and get them something warm to drink. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Conserve fuel by keeping your thermostat on a lower setting and instead using extra blankets for added warmth. Close the vents and doors of rooms that are not being used, while gathering in one room to circulate body heat.

Being prepared with backup power can reduce fear and anxiety, as well as reduce the impact of a disaster; often you can avoid the danger completely. Overall, make sure everyone in the family is aware of the potential hazards and is informed of what to do in case their efforts are needed.

Maintenance Agreements can be obtained by your local dealer, here are a few basic things you can do to safeguard your generator for winter, ensuring a reliable source of emergency power.

One of the most common causes of generator failure is a defective or discharged battery. Being the power source in an emergency situation, the battery should always be used with care. The battery is kept thoroughly charged by the charger connected to the main utility power, therefore the first thing to do is make sure the charger is in working order and have your battery tested by a licensed electrician or your local authorized dealer.

With portable generators, a common problem which can cause starting and running problems is fuel contamination. Make sure to check the fuel system and any external storage tanks to protect against water access. Remember gasoline has a shelf life that can be extended by adding fuel additives. If you store your portable generator for extended periods of time with fuel in the tank it may breakdown and clog the fuel system.

Last but not least, it is important if not mandatory to regularly start and test your portable generator to identify potential problems before they become an issue. Starting and monitoring your portable generator monthly will ensure a happy and healthy generator. Standby generators on the other hand run regular tests automatically without any involvement.

By following these tips with your scheduled maintenance checks you can ensure a well running winterized generator.

Hospitals rely heavily on back-up powered equipment to maintain life-sustaining apparatus. The results of lost power could be a mass death of patients on ventilators, monitors and other powered devices.

It is essential that hospitals use sophisticated, commercial generators that begin transferring power instantaneously from the time the power shuts off. These generators are monitored very closely and are of a much stronger caliber than a regular generator. There are two main types of generators used for hospitals: The first is powered by natural gas. Relying on a no-fail system, the generator is connected directly to the fuel supply. The second type of generator for back-up or commercial power is a diesel fueled combustion engine. A full tank of diesel can maintain the power of a hospital for 8 hours. Depending on the size of the hospital and the amount of diesel stored on site the generator can maintain power for a longer period of 24 hours.

It is extremely important for hospitals to have back-up power because outages are so often unexpected and unpredictable. The safety of those in ill-health is absolutely a priority; fortunately, generators can ensure that those in need of rest can do so without interruption. Many homes today are also investing in a standby generator with automatic transfer switch to ensure they are not without power. Safety, reliability and comfort are of the utmost importance in times of uncertainty.

Hospitals are not the only facility that require constant power for safety reasons – a power outage in a prison could have disastrous effects.

Prisons are packed with inmates who would seize the opportunity to escape their confined cell given the opportunity. With known disregard for authority, security measures are taken to make sure prison mates cannot leave. Many of the devices in place to keep mates locked-up are done so electronically. The loss of power in a place that relies so heavily on electricity such as the jail could be just a devastating as a hospital in the event of power failure.

In additional to security equipment, jails rely on electricity for ventilation systems and basic living standards. Jails are often overcrowded, cramping jail birds in small spaces. Without electricity to pump air into the facility oxygen levels can decrease quickly. An unventilated area can make comfort almost impossible, hence creating opportunities for distressed prisoners. While comfort levels are not a serious issue, heat related injuries such as heat stroke are.

As you can see, emergency power systems are vitally important to the health and safety of inmates and workers. Like hospitals, the size of the power generator is usually substantial and needs a considerable amount of space.

Unfortunately, we often take our world for granted. We assume life will take care of us, and for this reason we do not properly prepare for emergencies. Facilities that rely on emergency equipment have no other choice but to equip themselves with power devices. Emergency generators have saved and prevented countless lives from death for many years, and will continue to do so for those who plan ahead for the safety of themselves and their loved ones.

What is a portable generator? Portable generators are the most commonly used generator on the market. Because they are portable you can move them almost anywhere, most often you will see them being used for camping, in an RV or as a temporary unit in a home. They are also quite affordable. Portable generators run on various fuels such as gas, propane and diesel and come with a 120-volt outlet, similar to the one in your home. With a portable generator you have the option of connecting your appliances directly to the generator or to the transfer switch, allowing you to use the home power outlets.

What is a standby generator? A standby generator, or otherwise known as a residential generator are a little heftier in price compared to the portable generator, but the hold enough power to take care of your entire homes electrical needs. Standby generators are installed on gravel or cement slab outside in a permanent location. Many people like to place the generator in the same area as their air conditioner. The generator can then be wired to the homes electrical system and connected to the local utility gas line or liquid propane. One of the great advantages of the standby generator is that is can automatically sense a power outage through an automatic transfer switch (sometimes sold separately) and will start and stop the generator on its own. This is a very handy switch to have. Standby generators do require permits and professional installation. Never try to hook one up yourself.

The picks- Standby Generators

The Generac Guardian Series 5870 8,000 Watt standby generator is air-cooled and can run on propane or natural gas. Not only does it have an attractive white steel enclosure but it is virtually a hands-free system. It also comes with an automatic transfer switch (ATS). This model is rugged, reliable and ultimately worries free.

This Briggs & Stratton 40248 7000 Watt standby generator has the option of a dual propane tank making your life easier and more efficient. Not only that but it is simple to operate and powered by an extended life series engine. This generator has the option of buying a transfer switch but is required in order to convert it to a standby. It is fueled by natural gas or propane and comes with some handy cold weather features.

For those with bigger homes or just bigger power needs, the Generac Guardian Series 5785 20 Kilowatt standby generator is calling your name. This is a durable, strong and dependable machine built to last. It is powered by natural gas or propane and provides fast acting protection for your home.

The picks- portable

The Generac Portable GP series GP17500E Electric start generator has a high performance alternator and low tone muffler, making it powerful and quiet. It is a very well know and trusted brand so you know you are getting a good price, a good product and a good warranty. As a bonus it has easy to grip fixed handles making it easy to maneuver.

The Winco Home Power 6000 Tri-fuel portable generator is a good price for a lot of power. This generator operates on gasoline, propane or natural gas and can convert from one another very easily. This is a heavy duty portable that has the capabilities of starting a 2hp motor with continuous power.

I hope this article review was helping in narrowing down your choices. Please remember to consider the size of your home and the wattage you will need before making your purchase.

Since the civil war, there has only been 3 other occasions when snow has fallen in NYC in October. Unfortunately, this snow fall was grim for a few too many people; there have since been 25 reported deaths, including a 77 year-old great-grandmother who passed away because her oxygen machine stopped working due to the power outage she encountered.

Experts predict there may be much more snow and storm on the way; while officials warn it could be days before electricity is restored. Experts say it could last up to a week. In an interview with The Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy, he said “It’s a mess; we have more power outages than any time in history, including the tropical storm Irene”.

It seems power outages are becoming more consistent, persistent and part of the norm these days. Homes and businesses are continually being invaded by disruptive power outages that appear to last longer than the previous. Generators are no longer a luxury item that hospitals, telecommunication companies and well off families store in their home in case of an emergency; they are a power appliance and necessity.

Many families are spending more money on loss of power than they are on the generators themselves. A power outage that lasts a week can cost a family thousands of dollars, while it can cost a business millions of dollars. One or two of these outages can rack up bills really fast.

For those people, or someone you may know, that need back-up emergency power immediately, the Generac Portable GP Series GP17500, model #5735 has an electric start and 17.5kW at a price of $2679.00, saving you $640.00. It runs on gasoline and has a 16 gallon fuel tank size- that means it has a run time (50% load) of 10 hours. If you need less power, the Generac Portable iX Series iX2000 model #5793, manual start, 2kW, also runs on gasoline with a run time (50% load) of 4.7 hours and costs $569.00.

For those people who have a back-up emergency power system but are looking for a standby generator to power their home automatically in the event of a power outage, Generac Guardian Series 20kW Standby Generator (Aluminum) Pre Packaged 200 AMP Service Rated ATS is a very popular generator. Model # 5875 runs of Liquid propane or Natural gas and costs $4405.00, saving you $1223.00. This generator will provide you with the comfort and security of everyday living, even during the worst storm, hurricane or tornado.

Most incidents associated with portable generators that are reported to CPSC involve carbon monoxide positioning  (CO) from generators being used indoors or in partially-enclosed spaces  although, there are other safety concerns to be aware of as well.

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips and Concerns

As of May 14th 2007 it became mandatory for all portable generator manufactures and importers  to paste a danger label on the device,  warning of the risks associated from using generators in-doors.

To be sure you and your family and safe, always use a portable generator out-doors, far away from any windows, doors or vents that could allow the carbon monoxide to enter the home.

Never use a portable generator inside the home, basement, garage, shed, crawl space or any other similar location, even if you have doors and windows open with ventilation. Carbon monoxide is odorless and therefore it can build up in the home without you even being aware of it.

For safety precautions, install a battery-operated CO alarm, or plug-in alarm with battery back-up in your home according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Battery’s should be tested each month to make sure they are functioning properly.

Above all, if you have been exposed to CO and feel sick, weak or dizzy get fresh air right away.

Electrical safety

If you must operate a portable generator outdoors while it is wet outside,  be sure to keep it under a canopy-like structure on a dry surface where water does not have access to it. Dry your hands if they are wet before touching the generator to protect yourself from shock or electrocution.

Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the portable generator into an outlet, this is known as “backfeeding” and can be dangerous to utility workers or neighbors sharing the same utility transformer.

Connect your appliances to the generator using a heavy duty extension cord that is specifically used for outdoor use. Make sure the wattage rating for each cord exceeds the total wattage of all of the appliances connected to it. Make sure the extension cords are long enough so that the generator can be placed far away from the house. Check the cords to make sure they do not have any cuts or tares in them and make sure the cords do not get pinched when passing through windows or doors.

Fire Hazard Safety

When storing fuel always keep it in a non-glass safety container with a label on it. Do not store the containers near any fuel burning appliances such as a natural gas water heater. Whether you are using gasoline, propane or any other flammable gasses, the liquids should be stored outside of your living area and should never be stored in the home.

Before refueling your generator make sure to turn it off and let it cool down first. Also, be aware gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could cause it to ignite.

As with any machine operated equipment or exhaust, there are always dangers but – one’s that can be prevented by following simple safety guidelines. Always be sure to read your user’s manual and requirements on all generators or any electrical equipment or machine.

There are two different types of generators available in the market. They are stand-by and portable generators. Portable generators are the type of electric generators that’s commonly seen. They are compact, affordable and used in many situations. Portable generators can be used for residential purposes or used outdoors for activities such as camping or for use in an RV. This device is built to run on various fuel sources such as diesel, propane and gas. They usually have a 120volt power output that is similar to the voltage of your house’s line and need to be manually started each time you need electricity.

Standby generators are relatively larger and have a higher price tag compared to portable generators. They are installed on a permanent location and have the capacity to power an entire home. Stand-by generators usually use the gas line to produce the required electricity or could be run on propane. It can be directly connected to your house’s electricity line and can be assembled to automatically start-up when a power outage is detected. Even though a stand-by power generator is limited for use at one single location, they have the capacity to power up your entire home without having to worry too much about limitations. Stand-by generators require professional installation and in some countries/states the resident would need a permit to place one.

Not only does the electric generator act as a crucial device in an emergency but it is also a valuable investment. Purchasing an electric generator is one of the best decisions you will ever make to protect your family and property.