Every hurricane season, Florida homeowners face the same question: how do we keep the power on? The answer depends on budget, how long you can go without AC, and whether anyone at home relies on medical equipment. Here's how the main options compare, and why proper generator installation matters.
Standby generators
A whole house standby generator sits on a pad outside, runs on natural gas or propane, and starts automatically within seconds of an outage through an automatic transfer switch. It can run AC, refrigeration and more without anyone touching a cord.
Portable generators
Portable units cost less but need to be set up, fueled and run outdoors, away from windows and doors. The safe way to connect one to your home is an inlet box with a panel interlock or transfer switch. Never backfeed through a dryer outlet; it can injure utility line workers and damage equipment.
Battery backup
Home batteries, especially paired with solar, can run essential circuits quietly with no fuel. See our solar and battery backup service for more.
Don't forget surge protection
Power returning after an outage and lightning during storms can cause surges. A whole house surge protector is an affordable add-on.
Plan before June
Permits, equipment availability and gas connections take time. The best time to install is well before storm season starts.
Quick answers
How big a generator do I need?
It depends on what you want to run. A load calculation gives the right answer.
Can I run a generator in my garage?
No. Carbon monoxide is deadly. Run portable generators outdoors, well away from openings.