Many Floridians in the Sarasota area found themselves without power after Hurricane Ian. Because of the impact of the storm, many residents are now trying to find a generator to protect against future power outage events. However, over the last several years – and especially in the months following a major storm – generators are exceptionally difficult to source due to demand. While Promise Electric is happy to assist with your desired generator purchase, please note that inventory is at critically low levels. This situation may not improve in the near future as available units are directed to where they are needed most, such as where the existing infrastructure has been compromised.
If you are looking to install a standby generator at your home, call today to learn more about your options.
What Does A Generator Do?
A generator is a device that will intake fuel and output electric power, allowing you to continue using critical electrical infrastructure at your home in the event of a power outage. An extended power outage can have devastating effects on your household that far exceed the annoyance of sitting in the dark. A power outage in the middle of Florida summer might find your internal temperature to rise to dangerous levels without the ability to use central cooling. Without power, all of your groceries in the fridge will, over time, increase to unsafe temperature levels, especially if the refrigerator is opened often. Having a generator at home allows life to continue as usual, even in the event of a massive power outage in your area.
Types of Generators
There are two main types of generator purchase homeowners can make – portable and standby versions. The difference between these two models is the amount of power they can provide and the infrastructure required to run them, and the amount of energy they can provide will affect both types’ installation, purchase, and fuel costs.
Portable generators are relatively small and compact machines that can be stored away until needed and used when a power outage occurs. A portable generator will need an external source of fuel to be stored along with it, meaning a portable generator might eventually run out of fuel if used during an extended power outage. Portable generators can provide enough electricity to power some critical systems in the home and charge small electrical devices or tools; they do not provide enough power to fully power a house during an outage.
A standby generator is a large device installed outside the home that can be scaled to provide power to the whole residence. Compared to portable generators, standby generators are connected directly to a gas line and your house’s electrical system. No stockpile of the fuel source is required in order to be prepared for a storm if a standby generator is installed. The installation of a standby generator, however, is a more involved process. Generally, an electric company will need to take detailed measurements, apply for permits, and install gas lines in the construction area to supply continuous power to the generator.
Standby generators are recommended if you live in an area often hit by hurricanes. Knowing that you have a guaranteed power source in the case of emergencies can inspire a sense of relief and peace of mind. But because of the lack of supply, a generator purchase may be difficult – so it is prudent to start looking as soon as possible.
Promise Electric offers two decades of experience installing, maintaining, and repairing generators for commercial and residential use. We are established and trusted electrical contractors and master electricians serving the Sarasota area.
