How to Handle a Power Outage During a Snowstorm

If you have lived in Central Virginia, you know we are no strangers when it comes to ice storms in the fall. With these storms comes the risk of power outages. When the electricity goes out during a snowstorm, it can quickly become more than an inconvenience--it can be dangerous.

Having a generator can provide a crucial backup power source during these cold and worrisome moments. Using a generator during a power breakdown can keep you safe and comfortable, but it requires careful planning and diligent operation. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your generator is a reliable and safe backup power source during winter emergencies.

Safely Operating a Generator in Inclement Weather

When you're preparing to use your generator, follow these helpful steps to stay safe and get the power up and running as soon as possible:

• Safety first! Before turning your generator on, it's important to assess the area and make sure you can operate it safely within the space you're in. Generators can produce substantial amounts of carbon monoxide which can be lethal. You should only ever operate your generator outside and at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents. During the winter, it can be tempting to operate it within your garage to stay warm, but this can, in turn, harm you and your family with exposure to carbon dioxide.
• Avoid wet areas. Keeping your generator dry is important to avoid any danger of electrocution. Safety canopies or metal enclosures are excellent options for protecting your generator during wet and icy weather. They will keep your generator dry and well-ventilated. Operate it on a dry surface as well, and one that cannot be impacted by falling rain, sleet or snow.
• Connect without overloading. When you connect your generator with an extension cord, make sure to use a heavy-duty and outdoor-rated extension cord. If you're connecting it to your home's electrical system, make sure you use a transfer switch to prevent back-feeding. Lastly, to avoid overloading your generator, make sure you prioritize which appliances, lighting and electrical items need to stay on. Portable generators can provide you with emergency power but are not built to keep all your home's electronics running at full power for prolonged periods of time.
• Cool before you refuel. If the power is out for an extended period of time, you may have to run your generator for many hours. Before you refuel, turn your generator off and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes. Pouring gas on a hot generator could be a fire hazard.

How to Handle a Prolonged Power Outage

If your power does not turn back on within an hour, you should call your local utility company. They may have more insight on when power will return and provide extra steps to stay safe during this time. Most often, power will return within a matter of hours, so it can be as simple as bundling up you and your family in warm layers and blankets and staying entertained with non-electronic games.

However, if you believe there is something wrong with your electrical system and it is not an area-spread power outage, you can always contact our emergency hotline.

Reassess After the Outage

When your power kicks back on, turn your generator off and allow it to cool off completely. Store your generator and any remaining fuel in a safe, dry space within your garage or shed.

This is also a good time to assess how well your generator performed. Did it run out of fuel too quickly? Was it able to power all the appliances you needed? If you experience any issues, it may be time to schedule generator maintenance.

While emergency generators can be an essential tool during these sporadic power outages, it may be time to consider upgrading to a whole house standby generator.

These systems connect directly to your electrical system and switch on the moment the power goes out. They are built to run for significantly longer periods than portable generators and can keep the majority of your appliances, lighting and electrical items on without issue.

Stay Warm & Safe with Bradley Mechanical this Winter

Keep your lights on during any ice storm this fall. If your generator needs repair or you have questions about service or installation for a new whole house standby generator, give Bradley Mechanical a call at (804) 748-6728. We offer many different generator products and have provided expert service to Central Virginia for almost fifty years.