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April
2007
Extreme Weather and
Unforeseen Power Outages Drive Demand for Standby
Generator Power
Kohler provides helpful
tips for those considering installing a standby
generator at home
KOHLER, Wis. − April 2007 − The intensity and randomness of extreme
weather continues to increase nationwide − and power failures often
accompany these events.
According to the
National Weather Service, each year Americans cope with an average of
10,000 thunderstorms, 2,500 floods,
1,000 tornadoes and six hurricanes.
Although over two−thirds of power outages are caused by weather−related
events, these are not the only causes.
Blackouts and brownouts also occur because of high power usage, aging
utilities and other unpredictable forces.
In a world of high dependence on technology, homeowners can't risk
power loss from any cause. An increasing number of homeowners and small
business owners are installing a
permanent standby power generator − and even more are considering one,
based on the growing popularity of these
automatic units.
"Residential standby generators provide an extra insurance policy for
people who can't afford to be without power," says Kohler spokesperson
and three−time Master pipefitter Ed Del
Grande. "The guarantee that lights, refrigeration, computers, and other
systems will remain operational
during an outage can be critical as people try to keep their home or
business functioning and their family safe."
Most standby residential generators feature an Automatic Transfer
Switch (ATS) that continually monitors utility power and automatically
transfers electrical loads from the utility to
the generator when power is lost. The resident doesn't need to be home
for the generator to bring power back to the
home. The ATS reverses the process and shuts down the generator
automatically once utility power resumes.
"Standby residential generators simply do their job when an outage hits
and power is lost," says Del Grande. "In addition to peace of mind,
they require no action − when installed
properly − from the home or business owner."
Kohler Power Systems offers the following tips regarding standby power:
Always Plan Ahead.
Orders for most residential generators may have a
lead time, so timing is an important consideration. For homeowners who
don't have access to natural gas,
preparing for a liquid propane (LP) tank is necessary to install a
standby generator. Planning ahead
ensures customers don't have to wait any longer than necessary to get
systems up and running.
Seek a Site Visit First.
The Internet and retail stores are a great
resource for researching standby generator options, prices and
features, but before you buy online or
off the shelf, consult with a local generator dealer or electrical
contractor first. Ask them for a site
visit, and to assist you with matching the right generator size to your
electrical needs and wants. They will
conduct a load measurement, taking into consideration exactly the
electrical wattage needed and the
appliances/equipment you intend to back up with the standby generator.
The result of this load measurement will
give you the amount of power (watts or kilowatts) required for back up
power. The majority of today's
homeowners use a 12−15 kilowatt generator to back up the key essentials
in their home, while those seeking to
back up every electrical item in their home will likely require a
generator sized at 30 kilowatts or larger.
Professional Installation
Required. Because installing standby
generators involves working with existing fuel lines and electrical
wiring, professional installation by an
authorized manufacturer's power expert or licensed electrical
contractor is strongly recommended. These qualified
individuals are also knowledgeable about local and regional ordinances
concerning flood plains, noise and
electrical codes, and can assist in applying for the proper permits and
ensure your installation is in
compliance.
Shop Around. It is
illegal to raise prices on any products or services
due to high demand, so be sure to purchase generators form certified
dealers that can provide appropriate
consultations.
Look for Efficiencies.
"Building or remodeling is the perfect time to
consider standby power needs," says Del Grande. "Even if you aren't
able to install a generator
immediately, pre−wiring can save time and money down the road." Many
builders and remodeling professionals in coastal
areas specialize in storm preparedness and can be of assistance with a
host of issues, including
standby power.
Understand Key Features.
When shopping products from various
manufacturers, be sure to consider noise levels, size, power quality,
warranty, and service support in
addition to the product's kilowatt capacity.
Make Safety a Top Priority.
While a portable generator can be a
cost−effective alternative to a
permanently installed standby generator, always take proper safety
precautions. These gasoline powered generators can create sparks and
need to be operated in a
well−ventilated area because of the carbon monoxide produced.
Kohler's residential generators are available with power sources
ranging from 8kW to 125 kW and can be set up for an "essential loads"
application (to power just a few key,
pre−determined appliances) or for a "whole house" application. For
additional information on sales and service, visit
www.kohlersmartpower.com.
Kohler Power Systems is a division of Kohler Co. and delivers energy
solutions for markets worldwide. Kohler Power Systems provides complete
power systems, including generators
(stationary, mobile, residential and marine), automatic transfer
switches, switchgear, monitoring controls,
and accessories for emergency, prime power, and energy−management
applications.
Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of
the nation's oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a
global leader in the manufacture of kitchen
and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry,
tile and home interiors, and
international host to award−winning hospitality and world−class golf
destinations.
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