Finding the Right Generator Capacity Finding your household's wattage needs is the first step to choosing a generator. Avoid purchasing the wrong size of generator by calculating the correct amount of power you may need.

Choose what appliances are important to you during an emergency and write down the wattage found on the appliance label. An appliance's "Starting Power" refers to the wattage the appliance needs in order to start up, and the "Rated Power" is the amount of > power needed to stabilize and remain operating. Major Appliance Additional Starting Power (watts) Estimated Rated Power (watts) Identify the total wattage required to Ref rige rato r/Freeze r 2000 700 power those products. For example, Electric Water Heater 0 4000 if a refrigerator, space heater, and laptop computer are essential Space Heater 0 1800 > appliances, the ideal generator size Window AC [12,000 BTU) 3950 3250 would be 4,000 watts or greater. Central AC [40,000 BTU) 6700 6000 Lightbulb [75 watt) 0 75 Electric Stove 0 2100 Use this chart of common appliances Garage Door Opener 2350 875 to help calculate your capacity needs: PC Computer 0 125 Laptop Computer 0 25

Choosing Between a Stationary or Portable Generator Once you have determined the size of your generator, the next step is to choose between a portable or stationary generator. Portable generators usually provide up to 10,000 watts of power while stationary generators can provide up to 20,000 watts. The following tips will help you consider the added benefits and challenges of each option.

Stationary generators start up automatically when power Portable generators are conveniently mobile, giving you the > goes out. > flexibility to use it in places other than your home. Stationary generators can be significantly more expensive Portable generators that run on gasoline require a large and will require an electrician to install both the quantity. The fuel is highly flammable and will need to be generator and the additional transfer switch necessary > stored safely. > for automatic start up. Portable generators have to be physically turned on in order to Stationary generators that run on natural gas can connect operate. If you depend on an appliance that cannot be turned directly to your home's natural gas supply, which means > off, consider a stationary generator with an automatic start. you never have to worry about running out of fuel. > Portable generators are much more affordable, but can require > a lot of labor to move, refuel, and maintain. Pricing Although PWP does not endorse any particular brand or product, common brands include Honda, Kohler and Onan. Prices of generators will vary depending on additional features, maximum wattage, reliability, and sound level.

Portable Generators: $400 - $2,000 Stationary Generators: $5,000 - $10,000

PASADENA Water&Power For more information, visit: PWPWeb.com/Emergency_Prep SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1906 If a portable generator fits your household needs, determine the best one with the following tips below.

Additional Features Generator Checklist Additional features will enhance your Add these necessary items in order to properly operate your new generator: generator's capabilities, but will also increase the final cost. Narrow down what generator is � Heavy-duty extension cord: Get the safest extension cord possible for your best for your needs with a few of the available generator by matching the amps on the generator with the amps on the options for portable generators: cord. Use the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps. For example, a 5,000 watt generator powering appliances that run on 120 volts will need a cable rated Inverter Feature: Traditional portable for at least 25 amps. Also, make sure to purchase the thickest gauge generators do not produce a stable enough possible once you know how many amps your cord will need. frequency to run sensitive appliances such as laptops, televisions, and cell phone chargers. � Transfer Switch: This optional device connects the generator to your circuit Inverter generators produce .. clean .. , safe panel, allowing you to turn on all connected appliances in one place. power and are also much quieter than traditional portable generators. � Fuel container: Consider purchasing at least two five-pound fuel containers to ensure you have sufficient fuel on hand. Easy Startup: Instead of the often cumbersome pull-start mechanism, some � Fuel Preservative: Many fuel preservatives and stabilizers are available to portable generators offer a convenient electric keep your fuel fresh for up to two years. Make sure to find the proper start up feature that powers the generator at preservative for your choice of fuel. the push of a button. � Generator Cover or Tent: If you cannot operate your generator in a Wheels: Portable generators can weigh up to weather-proof space (at least 20 feet from your home), purchase a cover 300 pounds, so look for ones already equipped or tent to protect it from weather elements. with wheels. This feature is available on most portable generators with capacities over 2,500 Important Tips When Using a Generator watts. Maximize the life of your generator by performing the following best practices:

Fuel Type: Most portable generators can run Plug each appliance into the generator one at a time to avoid exceeding the on gasoline or propane. Gasoline is more maximum power threshold and tripping the generator's circuit breaker. common and easily available, but can also be > expensive and toxic. Propane is cleaner Make sure to use a portable generator at least 20 feet from your home and burning and has a much longer shelf life than in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide death. gasoline, but it is not as energy efficient. > Portable generators with dual fuel tanks Once a month, let your generator run for 20 minutes to lubricate the engine are also available for optimum convenience and recharge the battery. during an emergency. > Test run your generator at least every three months and plug devices > directly into the generator to ensure it is running properly. Remember to store fuel containers away from the generator and other sources of ignition. The maximum amount of gasoline legally allowed is 30 gallons. Any amount stored over 10 gallons should be stored in a flammable > liquids cabinet. Use stabilized fuel and change the fuel annually to ensure proper operation and avoid costly repairs loil oxidizes over time). Prevent spills by using a > wide, clean funnel to refuel. Properly dispose of old fuel at a S.A.F.E. Collection Center > !call 1-800-98-TOXIC for more information). Check the air filter on your generator regularly and clean it according to > the manufacturer's specifications. REMEMBER: NEVER CONNECT THE OUTPUT OF YOUR BACK-UP GENERATOR DIRECTLY TO YOUR HOME WIRING (WALL PLUG) OR SERVICE > PANEL.