Generator 101: Your Essential Guide to Powering Through a Florida Storm

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Here in Florida, hurricane season is a fact of life. While we all hope for the best, being prepared for a power outage is a necessity. A reliable generator is your best defense against extended blackouts, keeping your family safe and comfortable when the grid goes down.

But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? Let's break down the basics of generators.

Portable vs. Standby Generators

• Portable Generators: These are a great, affordable option for powering a few essential items like a refrigerator, some lights, and a small fan. They run on gasoline and require manual setup. Important safety note: You must never run a portable generator inside your home or garage due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Standby (Whole-Home) Generators: This is the ultimate solution for peace of mind. A standby generator is permanently installed outside your home, similar to an A/C unit. It's connected to your home's electrical panel and runs on natural gas or propane. When a power outage occurs, it automatically turns on, usually within seconds, and can power your entire home.

The Standby Generator Advantage

While a larger investment, a standby generator offers unmatched convenience and safety:

• Automatic Operation: No need to go outside in a storm to start it up.

• Powers Your Whole Home: Keep your A/C, lights, well pump, and all appliances running.

• Safety: No risk of carbon monoxide poisoning since it's installed by a professional and placed in a safe outdoor location.

• Increased Home Value: A whole-home generator is a highly desirable feature for future homebuyers.

Why You Need a Professional for Generator Installation

Installing a standby generator is a complex and dangerous task. It requires an expert to:

• Properly size the generator for your home's specific needs.

• Connect it safely to your home's electrical system.

• Ensure it meets all Florida building codes.

• Work with gas or propane lines.

At LOOK Electric, we specialize in generator sales, installation, and maintenance. We'll help you choose the right generator for your needs and ensure it's installed to the highest safety and quality standards, so you're ready when the next storm hits.

Don't wait until a storm is on its way. Call us today for a free estimate and get your home ready for hurricane season!