But generators aren't just for people hiding in the woods, waiting for the apocalypse. Homeowners and businesses are turning to the alternative power to run daily operations. Some prepare for power outages with candles and flashlights. But even though some folks may be able to part with their home theater for a short period of time, an extended weather-related power failure can lead to flooded basements, frozen pipes, and expensive structural damage. Size matters Choosing the right generator depends on what the customer plans to run off of it and the appliance's wattage.
Most products indicate on the back or bottom what their requirements are.
It all adds up. For instance, their refrigerator may only need 700W to run, but it takes an additional 2,800W to get it started. Fuel for thought Emergency power standby generators generally run on gasoline, diesel fuel, natural gas, or liquid propane. Gasoline, propane, and natural gas generators are less expensive, but many manufacturers and dealers boast diesel fuel as the most cost-effective form of generating power in the long run. Diesel units cost a little more up front, but Francis Ford, president of Fords MTM, a dealer in Salmon, ID, says they provide power at a much lower cost per hour over the lifetime of the unit.