Preparing Your Home For Power Outages: Essential Tips And Products
From generators to surge protectors and emergency radios, there are several essential products you should have on hand in order to keep your family safe during a blackout.
01/03/2023
When the power goes out unexpectedly, it can be a stressful and confusing time. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your home is prepared for any eventuality. From generators to surge protectors and emergency radios, there are several essential products you should have on hand in order to keep your family safe during a blackout.
Preparing ahead of time will make sure that you’ll be ready when the lights go off suddenly—so make sure you get these items now before disaster strikes!
1. Have A Backup Generator
The most important piece of equipment needed during a blackout is a generator. Generators supply electricity by converting mechanical energy from fuel into electrical energy, so having one on hand ensures continuous power supply when the mains fail.
Ensure you purchase one that meets the requirements of your home and has enough wattage to handle the appliances you need to run. When installing a generator for power outage preparation, make sure it is at least 20 feet away from your house and be sure to store fuel in an approved container.
2. Stock Up On Flashlights And Batteries
When the power goes out, having light is essential for safety. Stock up on flashlights, candles (make sure they’re unscented), and plenty of batteries so that you can use whatever lighting sources are available when the electricity shuts off.
Keep these items in an accessible location, such as a cabinet or drawer near the door or by your bedside stand.
3. Get An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
An Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is an electrical device that provides emergency power when the primary source fails. It instantly switches over to its internal battery, providing enough energy to safely shut down equipment before the power goes out completely.
This can also protect sensitive electronics from damage and data loss in the event of a sudden power cut.
4. Invest In Surge Protectors
Surge protectors are designed to absorb excess voltage during an outage or surge, protecting your expensive appliances and electronic devices from being damaged. Ensure you get a quality surge protector with several outlets.
You may want to consider buying one for each appliance that could be affected by an unexpected surge because they can prevent costly repairs.
5. Buy Quality Extension Cords
Extension cords are necessary for running appliances and other devices when the electricity is out. Make sure you buy quality cords that meet safety standards and are rated for the wattage of the appliance you’re using, otherwise they could start a fire.
It’s also important to check all extension cords before plugging in any appliances—if there are frayed wires or melted insulation, it means the cord is not safe to use.
6. Get An Automatic Transfer Switch
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) automatically turns on a generator and disconnects your home from power lines when the power goes out. This ensures that no electricity from outside sources will backfeed into the power lines and cause injury to repair workers.
It also prevents damage to your generator by only powering up when necessary.
7. Invest In An Emergency Radio
Having access to reliable news and information during a blackout is essential for staying informed of potential hazards in your area. An emergency radio can provide this, as well as weather alerts so that you can prepare accordingly.
Many models are equipped with battery power, solar energy, and hand-crank operation for convenience, so it’s worth investing in one now to be prepared when the lights go out.
Conclusion
Being prepared for a power outage is essential for any homeowner. By investing in the right products and following these tips, you can make sure your home is safe and secure during a blackout.
From stocking up on flashlights, batteries and emergency radios to installing an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) or Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), you can ensure that your family remains comfortable in the event of an outage. With these items at hand, you can rest easy knowing that you are protected from unexpected disruptions of service.