How Long Should You Run a Generator During a Power Outage in Hanson, MA

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Power outages can occur at any time, leaving your household in the dark. Hanson is a Massachusetts town with a humid continental climate, snowy winters, and a history of severe summer storms. Due to weather, it’s not uncommon for households to temporarily lose power, causing residents to rely on home generators for electricity. 

Unfortunately, these machines shouldn’t run indefinitely, so it’s important to know how long to run generators during power outages. Our experienced electricians in Hanson, MA, outline average runtimes for various generator types.

Types of Generators in Hanson and Their Runtimes 

Understanding how long to run generators during power outages in Hanson starts with recognizing that different generator types and fuel sources contribute to runtime averages. Let’s take a closer look. 

Portable Generators

A portable generator can perform well during a blackout. It could run between eight and 12 hours on average with a full fuel tank. However, fuel capacity and type and the generator’s size, impact its lasting power. 

Gas and diesel portable generators require regular refueling to meet the power demand. Natural gas-powered units, however, don’t require refueling because they depend on a Hanson property’s natural gas line for fuel. The runtime for propane-powered portable generators depends on the size of their cylinders, so they could run for a few hours to several days. 

Solar-Powered Generators

Solar-powered generators produce clean energy using the sun’s rays. Solar panels capture the light when the sun shines brightly and convert it into energy. Batteries store unused energy for later use. 

Unfortunately, overcast skies can reduce the efficacy of solar-powered generators. They’ll work for as long as sunlight is available. The equipment will still work under cloudy skies, but not as efficiently. 

Inverter Generators

If you own sensitive electronics in Hanson, an inverter generator may be ideal. Its runtime falls anywhere between four and ten hours, depending on its fuel load and model. Inverter generators are perfect for sensitive electronics because they adjust their power output to match electrical demands. 

Standby Generators

Many homeowners consider standby generator costs worthwhile expenses because of the convenience they offer. When a home experiences an electrical outage, the standby generator springs into action. When connected to natural gas or propane, these machines can run indefinitely. 

Load management and routine maintenance are crucial to ensuring the long-term reliability of these generators. With regular inspections, oil changes, and constant fuel supply, a standby generator could power your whole home during a blackout. 

How To Manage Long-Term Generator Use in Hanson

Now that you know how long to run a generator during a power outage, here is what you should know about the risks associated with this equipment:

• Portable generators produce deadly carbon monoxide, so don’t use them indoors. 
• Heavy-duty extension cords with grounding connectors are best for generators to prevent electric shocks. 
• Although generally safe, generator engines can get hot enough to become a fire risk, especially if flammable liquids spill on them.

Tips for Keeping Your Home’s Generator in Excellent Condition

To ensure your property’s generator lasts a long time, it is essential to follow all maintenance requirements and safety precautions. Here’s what you can do to make the most of your investment:

• Consider purchasing a generator operating at 1800 RPM for energy efficiency and extended generator runtime. 
• Shut down the generator every 48 to 72 hours to avoid overheating during an extended power outage. 
• Check your equipment’s oil level whenever you shut it down and top off its levels when necessary. 
• If the power outage occurs during a rainstorm or blizzard, use a generator tent or a dedicated shed to protect the equipment from moisture. 
• Never store fuel inside the generator or near it when not in use. 
• Schedule generator maintenance and inspection from a qualified professional at least once a year.