How to Power Your Home with a Portable / Emergency Generator

We’ve all heard horror stories about friends and family who went without power for days or even weeks recently. Today we’d like to discuss how you can prepare your home from power outages using an emergency backup generator.

We highly recommend getting a portable generator and installing a transfer switch to provide an alternate source of power for your home.  A transfer switch will allow you to power your primary circuits such as heat, sump pumps, well pumps, refrigerator, lighting or even a T.V. for fans who don’t want to miss the big game!

This system is an inexpensive way to provide you with extra security in the event you lose power.  To activate this system you simply plug in the portable generator into the transfer switch outlet and place the transfer switch in the emergency position. When your power returns, other appliances or lights that are not run through the emergency generator will turn on; thus alerting you to flip the transfer switch back to the normal position.

How to Install a Portable Generator for Emergency Home Power

Installing this kind of system typically costs between $975 and $1250, excluding the cost of a portable generator.  A&E installs emergency backup systems and can provide you with information on purchasing a generator.

Transfer switches have the capability for either 6 circuits or 10 circuits.  You will also need a good portable generator that produces about 7500 watts/30 amps in order to run up to 10 circuits.  A good portable generator will cost anywhere from $800 to $1500 and can be purchased online and delivered directly to your home.

Transfer switches come in handy if you often lose power during storms or if you want a backup source of power in the event of an emergency.

They are much more convenient (and safer!) than running multiple extension cords around your home.  

Unlike extension cords, you can also run devices that are not connected to a cord such as heaters and well pumps. Most importantly for homeowners, transfer switches are incredibly simple to use.

Don't hesitate to contact A&E Construction for information on buying a portable generator or if you are interested in installing an emergency backup system in your home.