Getting A Power Generator

As many of us have learned a little too well recently, homeowners can lose power at any time for a multitude of reasons. But whether a power outage is caused by bad weather, power shortages or any other reason, being prepared ahead of time will save you from the worst effects of losing your electricity.

Danny Lipford, The Early Show contributor and host of "Today's Homeowner," says one of the best ways to be prepared is to consider purchasing a generator.

While generators are certainly more affordable now than in the past, they are still a major investment, ranging anywhere from $300 up into the thousands of dollars, depending on the amount of energy you will require. So while making the decision to invest in one is very wise, as always, doing your homework will ensure you won't be left in the dark when the lights go out.

Featured Generators:

Coleman Powermate 3750 Watt Generator with Portability Kit $399
The Coleman Powermate Premium Plus 3750 Generator is the perfect backup power for on the jobsite or power outages at home. Complete with wheel and handle kit makes this unit easy to maneuver and store. It has two 120 Volt outlets with easy accessibility and provides enough power to run a refrigerator, sump pump, freezer, fan, lights, radio, and television during power outages.

Generac by Briggs & Stratton: WheelHouse 5500 Watt Heavy Duty Generator $649
Great for backup power, this 5500 watt generator has five convenient outlets and circuit breakers protected by a high-impact protective cover. Other benefits include additional surge protection, a muffler for quiet operation and 14" wheels for easy mobility.

Generac by Briggs & Stratton 7000EXL - 7000 watts $1099.60
It is a commercial grade extended life generator with additional wattage for powering multiple appliances. Great for backup power, it has an effortless electric stat system for simple push-of-a-button starts. 25 foot long extended Panel 30 Amp Cord safely provides the full power of four heavy-duty extension cords in one. Provides up to 10 hours of continuous run time from a 7-gallon tank of fuel. Great for long power outages and work days.

KOHLER 12,000 Watt Generator $5,000 (installed)
Fueled by either LP or natural gas, the new KOHLER 12 kW generator is the only generator in its class powerful enough to start and run a typical 4-ton (48,000 BTU) central-air conditioner in the event of a power outage. Until now, homeowners/small business owners needing their central-air system backed up by a generator have had to purchase a 17 kW or larger generator. Available in October 2003. (This is a permanent generator installed outdoors like an A/C unit).

Safety Tips for Using Portable Generators:

• Be sure to purchase the correct size generator for your needs and carefully follow all manufacturers instructions regarding proper grounding and total electric load.
• Ensure proper ventilation as generators produce carbon monoxide. Generators should only be operated outside in dry locations.
• Always turn off generator when refueling. Vapors are highly flammable.
• When using extension cords, (use only UL-listed, three pronged extension cords) keep them out of the way to avoid tripping and never run them under a rug or carpet as this is a fire hazard.

• Only a qualified professional, such as a licensed electric contractor, should install a permanent standby generator.
• Carefully follow manufacturers directions for operating.