BACKUP POWER GENERATORS
Whole-Home (Standby) Generators
What they are: Permanently installed generators that automatically supply power to the entire property when utility power fails. They’re usually fueled by natural gas, propane, or diesel and wired to the home via an automatic transfer switch (ATS).
Why they matter: Standby generators provide seamless, hands-off backup for long outages, protecting critical systems (HVAC, refrigerator, sump pumps, medical equipment, security systems) and preventing property damage caused by prolonged power loss. They’re ideal for homes in areas with frequent outages, for owners of life-support equipment, or for those who want full convenience and safety.
Common issues
- Improper sizing: an undersized generator won’t run all necessary loads; oversized units increase cost and fuel consumption.
- Poor installation or incorrect transfer switching: can risk back feed to the grid, damage equipment, or create safety hazards if not installed per code.
- Fuel supply problems: natural gas interruptions, propane tank depletion, or diesel fuel degradation can leave the unit inoperable.
- Lack of maintenance: neglected generators can fail when needed — common through old oil, clogged filters, dead batteries, corroded connections, or worn parts.
- Noise and placement concerns: generators must be sited to meet local codes for setbacks and exhaust to avoid carbon monoxide and nuisance noise.
Best practices
- Have a licensed professional size and install the unit and transfer switch.
- Schedule regular maintenance (exercise runs, oil/filter changes, battery checks) per manufacturer recommendations.
- Ensure proper fuel arrangements (automatic propane refills, diesel maintenance, or reliable natural gas supply).
- Install CO detectors inside the home and follow local siting/noise regulations.
Portable Generators
What they are: Mobile, often gasoline- or propane-powered units that provide temporary power to select appliances or circuits via extension cords or a manual transfer switch in the electrical panel. They range in size and output from small to larger units.
Why they matter: Portable generators are lower-cost, flexible solutions for short-term outages, remote job sites, or recreational use. Smaller units are useful for powering a few essential items (lights, fridge, sump pump, tools) and can be transported as needed. While large units can power the whole home and HVAC system when special devices are added.
Common issues
- Carbon monoxide (CO) risk: improper placement (indoors, in garages, close to windows) causes CO poisoning — the most serious hazard with portables.
- Improper connection/back feed: plugging a generator into a home outlet (back feeding) without a transfer switch can energize utility lines and endanger line workers.
- Fuel availability, management and storage: gasoline and propane may be in scarce supply during natural disasters. Fuel is volatile and degrades over time; improper storage or stale fuel causes starting failures.
- Overloading and voltage instability: connecting devices that exceed the generator’s capacity can damage the generator and appliances; inexpensive units may produce “dirty” power harmful to sensitive electronics unless a whole home surge protector is installed.
- Maintenance neglect: stale fuel, fouled spark plugs, dirty carburetors, and old oil reduce reliability.
Best practices
- Never operate indoors or in enclosed spaces; place the generator outdoors at least 20 feet from doors/windows and away from vents, following manufacturer guidance.
- Use a transfer switch or an approved interlock device installed by a qualified electrician to avoid back feed.
- Store fuel safely in approved containers and use fuel stabilizer for longer storage.
- Perform maintenance before storm seasons and after long storage; run the generator periodically.
Choosing Between Whole-Home and Portable
When to Get Professional Help
EXPERT ELECTRICAL SERVICE IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY TEXAS
Service Areas
Conroe, Texas
Magnolia, Texas
Montgomery, Texas
North Houston, Texas
Spring, Texas
Tomball, Texas
The Woodlands, Texas
Willis, Texas
