Hurricane Preparation: Home Standby Generators

If you're a Florida resident, it is important to be aware that summer and the beginning of autumn are the time for hurricanes. These storms are capable of reaching speeds over 155 miles an hour and cause storm surges that flood homes in coastal regions. Storms can cause devastating destruction to everything in their course.

If a hurricane were to strike your area on the horizon, are you prepared? If you're not certain, take a look at this checklist to determine whether you're prepared for a storm.

• Make an emergency supply kit.
• Create a family plan for communication.
• Find out hurricane evacuation routes for your area.
• Find out how high you've raised your home and if it's susceptible to flooding during hurricanes.
• Maintain your trees and shrubs well-trimmed to increase their wind resistance.
• Make storm shutters for every window.
• Attach straps to secure your roofing securely onto the structure of the frame.
• Install an emergency generator.
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How a Standby Generator Helps Homeowners Prepare for a Hurricane?

If you're in an evacuation zone in an extreme storm, you could opt to remain at your home. But, if power is lost, you may be left without power. With a generator on standby, you're prepared to weather the storm.

What Do Generators Power?

You might not be aware of the magnitude of your dependence on electricity until your power is cut off. Then it will occur to you that many appliances in your home require electricity to function. The essential items to be powered during a storm are:

• Lights
• Air conditioning and heating systems
• Kitchen appliances
• Sump pumps
• Water heaters
• Refrigerators and freezers
• Security systems for homes
• Computers and TVs
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Benefits of Installing a Standby Generator

You might be reluctant to buy standby generators, believing that perhaps you don't really require one. If a catastrophic storm strikes and knocks out electricity for hours, days, perhaps even weeks, you'll discover the importance of electricity to your daily routine. The advantages of having a backup generator are as follows:

• Get plenty of light at night
• Keep your indoor temperature at a comfortable level
• Prepare a hearty dinner for your family
• Make sure your basement isn't flooded by ensuring that the sump pump is in operation
• Shower in a hot tub
• Refrigerated food items and frozen foods from becoming stale
• Stay safe in your home security system
• You can pass the time by watching video games and TV