Recent wildfires, including the Davis and Callahan Fires, left thousands without power for extended periods, prompting local residents to invest in backup power solutions to better prepare for future outages.
Wyatt Morency, co-owner of Amerigan Power Solutions, reported a dramatic increase in generator demand. “We’ve seen about 100 times the usual inquiries on the residential side,” Morency said. “People are concerned about losing food, having to leave their homes, and the potential risks to their pipes during winter outages.”
Amerigan offers two leading generator brands: Kohler and Generac. Both are designed to power entire homes and automatically activate when the grid goes down, ensuring a seamless transition with no interruptions.
However, installing these whole-home systems requires considerable effort. “These units are permanently installed, which means multiple trades are typically involved,” Morency explained. “You’ll need a plumber for gas lines, electricians for wiring, and sometimes concrete work for the foundation.”
Most of the generators offered by Amerigan run on natural gas or propane. The cost of the equipment alone is around $10,000, with an additional $5,000 to $10,000 for installation, depending on the home’s layout. Morency recommends annual maintenance for the system, which costs about $400.
For homeowners on a tighter budget, Morency suggests an alternative: a transfer switch, which can be installed for about $1,000. This switch allows users to connect any portable generator to their home’s essential systems, such as water, air conditioning, and heating. However, it’s important to note that the power output of smaller generators is limited, meaning they won’t be able to support as many appliances.
The demand for generators has also been noticeable at The Home Depot, particularly in the wake of multiple public safety outages by NV Energy. Saul Reyes, Operations Manager at The Home Depot on South Virginia Street, noted that while gas and solar generators are becoming more comparable in functionality, they each have distinct advantages.
Gas generators are generally more straightforward to operate and are portable, but they require caution when used indoors. “Carbon monoxide fumes can be deadly,” Reyes warned. “They’re odorless and invisible, so it’s crucial to keep gas generators at least 20 feet from your home and to upgrade your carbon monoxide detectors.”
For homeowners unsure of what type of generator they need, Reyes advises considering their specific requirements. “If you’re only looking to power a fridge, a gas or solar generator may suffice,” he said. “Generators at Home Depot range from $400 to $5,000, depending on size and features.”
Reyes also emphasized that while larger generators can power more appliances, smaller units can still be useful for basic needs. “You get what you pay for, but smaller generators can be sustainable if you’re mindful of what you need to power.”
For customers on a budget, Home Depot offers a range of affordable options, and they can help coordinate with other suppliers to find the best fit for individual needs.
In the event that purchasing a generator is not feasible, Reyes recommends preparing for outages by stocking up on essentials like flashlights, blankets, and coolers with ice to preserve food.
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