When a power outage hits, having a backup generator can provide significant peace of mind. But what should you actually power with it? Knowing how to prioritize your home’s needs can help you manage your generator’s fuel and capacity effectively. At Long Electric, LLC, we want to help homeowners make informed decisions during an outage by distinguishing between essential appliances and nice-to-have items.
The Essentials: What to Power First
During a power outage, your primary focus should be on safety, food preservation, and basic comfort. These are the critical appliances to prioritize:
- Refrigerator and Freezer: Keeping your food fresh and preventing spoilage is a top priority. A fridge and freezer don’t need continuous power, so you can cycle the generator on for an hour every few hours to keep them cold.
- Well Pump: If your home relies on well water, the pump is crucial for accessing running water for drinking, sanitation, and flushing toilets.
- Sump Pump: For homes with basements, powering a sump pump is crucial during storms to prevent flooding and water damage.
- Key Medical Equipment: Any essential medical devices, such as CPAP machines or oxygen concentrators, should always be the first priority.
The Nice-to-Haves: Comfort and Convenience
Once you have the essentials covered, consider powering items that add comfort and convenience. These appliances often draw more power, so careful use of the generator is essential.
- Lights and Outlets: Powering a few lights in the main living areas and outlets for charging phones and other devices can make the situation much more manageable.
- Heating or Cooling System: Depending on the weather, a furnace fan or a small window AC unit can keep your home’s temperature safe and comfortable.
- Entertainment: A television or internet router can help you stay informed and keep your family occupied.
Properly planning your power outage tips and priorities ensures you can weather the storm safely and comfortably.
Generator Services in Frederick, MD for Power Outages and Home Backup
Trust Long Electric, LLC of Frederick, MD, to keep your lights on and your home running smoothly with premier generator services. Invest in a backup generator to experience peace of mind and security and ensure your home stays powered when the grid goes down.
Contact us today to schedule your service.