Reasons for Installing a Standby Generator by Summer – Part 2

As mentioned in Part 1, we try to ensure that we have prepared our homes in case of a natural disaster. Severe weather can occur any time in Maryland during the summer. Part 2 will discuss Emergency Preparedness and the Importance of Professional Installation.

Emergency Preparedness

Emergency preparedness entails having a plan in place and an emergency kit ready in case of a manmade or natural disaster. An emergency plan should also prepare your home for power outages. You likely know that some outages result from utilities doing maintenance or a faulty system or part. Typically, severe weather events are the cause of the majority of power outages.

Maryland experiences severe thunderstorms every summer, and they usually strike in the afternoon and evening. Keep in mind, however, they can occur during any season and at any time of day. As opposed to hurricanes and winter storms, a thunderstorm concentrates its power in a smaller area, but it can still be very hazardous.  

Thunderstorms produce multiple lightning strikes, which cause more fatalities to people than tornadoes do. A large thunderstorm can result in a flash flood, hail, winds nearing 60 miles per hour, or tornadoes. Sometimes thunderstorms appear without warning, causing property damage and power outages very quickly.

Maintaining home comfort and promoting safety during a power outage, a permanent standby generator will provide electricity to the key items below:

• Electrical circuits and lighting
• HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) unit
• Major appliances such as electric stoves, refrigerators, and microwaves
• Security systems
• Sump and well pumps

Importance of Professional Installation

After wisely deciding to install a standby generator, your first step is talking to a local licensed electrician who has lots of experience installing these units. This professional will give you solid advice at each step, from correctly selecting a generator to installing it properly at your home. Working with a professional will help ensure the unit will meet your home’s electrical needs during a power outage and the installation will comply with local code and safety regulations.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs. For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. We will be very glad to help you.