Familiarizing yourself with the different types and features of all-weather portable generators for home use may be useful when looking to buy an emergency standby generator. Unscheduled or sudden power outages may bring everything to a standstill, particularly now in this modern electronic age where almost everything is dependent on electricity.
Survival appliances like your heating and cooling system, lighting and security system will stop running during power outages which may then compromise your safety and comfort in your own homes. All-weather portable generators provide an efficient backup power system during those times, regardless of the weather condition.
The DO’s When Running a Portable Generator in the Rain or Snow
Keep in mind that exposing your portable generator in the rain or snow is never a good idea. Here are some things to remember when installing a generator outside your home:
• Make sure that your generator has a decent enclosure or a dry and clean covered area wherein rain or snow may not be able to penetrate.
• You also want to make sure that the cover has an outlet or opening for proper ventilation and to prevent toxic air from clouding your home.
• Securely wrap and tape the socket and connections with a water-resistant material.
• Provide a thick board to act as a base where your generator can safely sit.
• Remember to check the cables and extension cords for defects and chipped off insulations to prevent untoward accidents or mishaps.
• Take into consideration proper grounding, like attaching ground wire to your generator, for your own safety.
The DONT’S of Running a Portable Generator in the Rain or Snow
These are important things you want to avoid when running your generator in the rain or snow:
• Regardless of the severity of the weather condition, never run your generator inside your home to avoid toxins and fumes.
• Don’t allow your generator to be directly exposed to snow or rain.
• Don’t add fuel while the generator is running. You want to turn it off first and let it cool before refilling gasoline.
• Don’t use cords with exposed wires or with defects.
Preparation Before the Rain or Snow Starts
It can be challenging to keep your portable generator safe and running during the snow season or rainy days but preparing ahead of time for the worst condition is very helpful.
One effective way is to weather-proof it through the following options:
Option 1
Build a rain-proof housing or enclosure for your portable generator so it will be protected from getting damaged. Building one can be tough but it is extremely necessary because your generator will surely be a good source of electricity should there be a power outage due to the inclement weather. Make sure that your generator is raised above the ground to protect the base from getting wet.
Option 2
Use a safety canopy designed especially for portable generators. There are various types of canopies available in the market. You may want to consider the GenTent wet weather safety canopy for portable generators. Designed to withstand just about any weather condition (snow, sleet, ice, rain, etc.), this GenTent safety canopy securely fits almost all portable generators from 3.5 to 10 KW.
Option 3
Include a fuel reserve for your all-weather portable gas-powered generator. Weather conditions are unpredictable and a fuel reserve is beneficial in case you run out of gas in the middle of a bad weather. Fill in your fuel tanks and connect it to your home’s natural gas line if you have one. Make sure to get help from an expert during the installation process for your safety.
What is an All-Weather Portable Generator?
Portable generators come in different types. If you are looking for one that can be used even on extreme weather conditions, go for an all-weather portable generator. This is particularly designed to supply power when there is a power outage even on inclement climates given the right shelter and protection from the elements in the environment.
Portable Generators That Are Worth Considering
Stanley G5000S 5000 Watt 270cc 10 HP OHV All-Weather Portable Gas-Powered Generator
The Stanley G5000S is equipped with a consistent 5KW power supply and 6KW surge that can effectively supply power to a number of appliances which includes freezers, refrigerators, heating system fans, 3 or 4 lights and sump pumps to name a few. Measuring 22.7” x 28.5” x 22”, it features a 12-gallon tank that can operate 24 hours at half the load.
Stanley G8000S 8000-Watt 420cc 15 HP All-Weather Portable Gas-Powered Generator with Removable Generator Panel
If you are looking for a more powerful all-weather gas-powered generator that can supply power for your home office, family room and several survival appliances simultaneously, this Stanley G8000S is a perfect choice. Boasting of its 8000-watt power supply, 10,000 surge watts and 420cc 15HP engine, it operates for about 18 hours with its 12-gallon fuel tank at 50% load.
Advantages and Disadvantages of an All-Weather Portable Generator
Having an all-weather portable generator at home has its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at them and consider why having one is worth it.
Pros
• It may be safely used in all kinds of weather especially during severe weather conditions
• It is available in various power supply ratings (wattage) making it possible to address different power supply requirements.
• It is the best way to supply electricity instantly when the power goes out.
• It makes a great emergency back-up power system as it instantly starts when power goes out and runs until electricity is restored.
• It is portable, making it easy to transport.
Cons
• It cannot be operated inside your house due to its toxic fumes.
• It requires proper ventilation while running, otherwise it may cause carbon monoxide build up which is a toxic gas or it may overheat.
• It is quite noisy when operated.
• Its fuel may cause fire when not stored properly.
Choosing the right product depends on your requirements and available budget. If you have unlimited resources and require an emergency backup power system to supply power to your small home including your appliances, why not take advantage of a high wattage-powered portable generator like the Stanley G8000S model, otherwise choose a lower powered generator like the G5000S model.
Having a backup power system in your home is important especially during extreme weather conditions when power outages usually occur. This is to keep you safe and comfortable inside your homes while providing power to your basic appliances.
Leave a Reply