Preparing for Power Outages in Texas

Severe weather and power outages often go hand in hand.

The electricity does not go out every time it rains, but wind damage, hail, and lightning increase the possibility, making outage preparations essential for your comfort and safety. 

Installing a Generator in Southlake

A whole-house generator is the most effective way to prepare for power outages. Our expert team at Generator Authority can assist you in selecting a generator that will maintain your comfort and safety when utility power goes out. When we install a whole-house generator, we find the safest location outside your house, prepare the site, and install the unit.  

What is a Whole-House Generator?

A whole-house generator, which runs on natural gas or propane, kicks in when it detects a disruption in power from the electric company. It supplies electricity to your breaker panel to run everything from power outlets to your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. 

You do not have to lift a finger to operate your whole-house generator during an outage. The generator does all the work automatically. The transfer from utility-supplied power to generator power is seamless. You may not even realize utility power is out.

What is a Portable Generator?

A portable generator runs on gasoline, propane, or diesel fuel and requires more hands-on preparation and operation. It is not installed permanently outside your home. You place it away from doors and windows, check its fuel and oil levels, and plug it into a power inlet box before starting it. 

Generator Authority can install a power inlet and a manual transfer switch for your portable unit, enabling you to power your home safely. 

Preparing for a Storm-Related Outage

If you do not own a generator, you have more prep work to complete before a severe storm arrives. 

• Emergency Kit: You can create an emergency kit now and store it in an accessible place. Include flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, batteries, non-perishable food, water, first aid products, and medications. Why water? A power outage affects well pumps and may even impact your municipal water provider. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends storing unopened bottled water for emergencies. Keep one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation on hand. Be sure to store at least a three-day supply per person. 

• Manual Alternatives: Assemble handy household items. Buy an ice chest or two for refrigerated and frozen foods. You may need to empty your refrigerator and place the food on ice. Keep a manual can opener on hand. Stock up on propane canisters or charcoal for your barbecue grill or camping stove. 

• Charge Devices:  Be sure your cell phone, tablet, computer, and other electronic devices are powered up and ready for use. Consider buying a portable power bank to keep them charged during an outage. Bookmark your local utility company and its outage page on one of your devices. 

• Your Vehicle: Charge your electric vehicle and limit usage so the battery remains full. If you have a gas vehicle, be sure to top off your tank. Check fluid levels and tire tread to ensure your car is ready for a long-distance drive if need be. 

Stay Safe During the Outage

• Food: Keep the refrigerator door closed. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) says your refrigerator can keep foods safe for up to four hours in a power outage. View its food safety chart for guidance on when and what to discard. 

• Battery-Operated Devices: Turn off unused apps on your cell phone to conserve power. Use devices primarily to track weather conditions and utility company outage information. 

• Cooking and Heating: Use propane-fueled cookstoves and camping lanterns outdoors away from windows. Refrain from using candles. They emit particulate matter that lowers indoor air quality (IAQ) and are fire hazards. Do not use a gas-fueled oven to heat your home. It puts you at risk of fire and possible carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. 

• Avoid Surge Damage: A power surge can happen when the utility company restores power. Avoid damage to your appliances and electronic devices by unplugging them from outlets. Turn off systems wired directly into your electrical system, such as your HVAC.

• Guiding Light: Leave one light on so you will know when the outage ends. 

Steps to Take After the Outage

• Reset: Adjust clocks and timers. Reset alarms and your wireless router if needed.

• Reconnect: Wait a few minutes after the power returns to plug in your appliances and turn on your HVAC to avoid a potential power surge. Power surges can damage electronics, appliances, and other electrical devices in your Southlake home. Call us at 817-984-3600 to install a whole-house surge protector before the next outage.  

• Toss it Out: Food in temperatures of 40° Fahrenheit and above for two hours or more is spoiled. Discard it to avoid illness. 

• Prepare: Replenish your emergency kit for the next outage. If you own a sump pump, consider installing a backup battery. 

Safeguard Your Home with a Generator

Severe weather in Southlake, TX, can lead to power outages that will turn your daily routine upside-down. Preserve your comfort and protect your home with a whole-house generator. Our team at Generator Authority can recommend the best system for your needs. Call us at 817-984-3600 or request service online.