We're all aware of catastrophic storms that can knock out power to millions. But, while hurricanes and tornadoes grab the headlines, the fact remains that nearly 60% of all weather-related power outages are caused by thunderstorms that can occur almost anywhere.
Blackout: Extreme Weather, Climate Change and Power Outages, Alyson Kenward, PhD, and Urooj Raja, Climate Central 2014
INCREASE FROM 2000-2003
Power Outages on the Rise Across the U.S., InsideEnergy.org
Average number of people affected daily by U.S. power outages.
U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Information Administration
Yearly cost of U.S. power outages.
Univ. of Minnesota, Transmission & Distribution World
Percentage of U.S. power outages that are weather-related.
Evan Mills, Extreme Grid Disruptions and Extreme Weather, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, U.S. Disaster Reanalysis Workshop
Average damage caused by a 2" flood in a 2000 SF home
FloodSmart.gov
Average damage caused by a 6" flood in a 2000 SF home
FloodSmart.gov
Of course, if you happen to live in an area frequented by hurricanes, tornadoes, or even ice storms, a home standby generator should be a given. But even if you live outside these severe-weather areas, you are very likely to face as many-possibly even more-power outages due to thunderstorms.
You may be considering the use of a portable generator for use during power outages. We sell a lot of portables, and they can certainly be used to provide backup power, but there are some key differences you need to be aware of—
| PORTABLE GENERATORS | AUTOMATIC HOME STANDBY GENERATORS | |
|---|---|---|
| Uses | Portability makes them ideal for job sites, tailgating, camps, or other remote locations. | They are hard-wired to your home so that's the only place you will use them. |
| Starting | You must be home when the power goes out to start and connect almost all portables. | Starts up automatically when utility power is lost — whether you're home or away. |
| Connecting | Must be manually connected via a transfer switch or with extension cords. | Permanently connected to your home's electrical system so there is nothing you need to do when power is lost. |
| Refueling | Must be refueled every 6-12 hours, depending on loads and size of fuel tank. | No refueling if connected to your natural gas line. We also offer propane and diesel options with long run times. |
| Capacity | Typically powers only some key appliances. | Can power your entire home or selected circuits. |
| Monitoring | You must monitor operation in person. | With Mobile Link™ you can monitor your generator from your smartphone, tablet or PC. |
can give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are protected against a power outage ANY TIME, whether you are home or away. Request a FREE QUOTE today!
