

SOUTH FLORIDA GENERATOR RECOMENDATIONS PORTABLE
Portable power stations are relatively new to the market, and they typically cost more than portable gas generators.

These devices don’t use gas or propane-they’re powered by a battery that you can charge by plugging into an electrical outlet or, sometimes, an included solar panel (you might also see them called “solar generators”).For more details, read “ How Consumer Reports Tests Generators for Safety.” The vessel is wired with calibrated carbon monoxide sensors, and we record CO levels throughout the container when a generator is on, noting how quickly each generator turns off when the levels become potentially dangerous. We conduct these tests in a custom-built vessel on the grounds of our Yonkers, N.Y., test facility. We also look at how easy it is to move and use a generator, as well as how efficiently it uses gasoline and how long it runs on a single tank.Ĭonsumer Reports runs each generator through a variety of scenarios designed to capture the ways in which a consumer might inadvertently misuse a generator. The best models take that in stride, while others bog down or even stall. We make sure the generator can handle the load it promises and also determine what happens when a sudden spike in voltage hits, like what would happen if the compressor in your refrigerator kicked on when the generator was already close to capacity. To test generators for performance, our expert engineers load up each model with a variety of essentials you might want to power during an outage, like a space heater, refrigerator, or window air conditioner. And make sure your house is outfitted with working carbon monoxide alarms outside bedrooms and on every level of your home before you fire up a generator. Always use a generator outside, a minimum of 20 feet from your home, with the exhaust directed away from the house. We don’t want you-or anyone relying on a generator-to be one of those people. Dozens of people die every year from carbon monoxide poisoning related to generators. Working by flashlight, in a rush to get the power up and running, they might skip over critical safety steps during setup. People tend to buy generators around major storms. One estimate from Climate Central, a nonprofit news organization, found that across the U.S., weather-related outages increased by 69 percent in the past decade, based on government and utility company data.īut while a generator can be a lifesaver, it can be dangerous if you don’t take precautions. But power outages tied to extreme weather are making generators more essential by the day. Once upon a time, a generator was a nice tool to have on hand for the occasional outage. If the deficiencies appear more complex, recommendation will be made for a qualified contractor who can more accurately diagnose the problem and is more informed of any costly repairs.Īt the inspection we willingly address questions the client may have and will distinguish between items that need to be repaired or replaced, areas that may need routine maintenance, and items that may need immediate attention at the time of the inspection.ĭigital photos are always taken of the deficiencies and included with the reports, which are computer-generated and on your desktop within 24 hours of the inspection.When the power goes out, a generator can keep your house warm in winter or cool in summer it can keep your food cold, your kitchen cooking, and your computers and phones charged.
SOUTH FLORIDA GENERATOR RECOMENDATIONS HOW TO
Recommendations will be given on how to remedy the situation, and an estimated price range is quoted.

The inspection is much like a physical check-up and will pinpoint surface deficiencies that are obvious to the naked eye in these components:Įlectrical (including GFCI and AFCI breakers and outlets) The property is inspected for water penetration and foundation movement. It will also save you from potential costly repairs. When purchasing a property, you will need to have a Comprehensive inspection conducted to ensure that you know the property’s true worth, and are getting a well-constructed house.
