Our September preparedness focus includes emergency power, so our second prep challenge is to buy an emergency generator. Even though natural disasters cause power outages which affect utilities, everyone does NOT need a generator. Portable generators cost between $400 to $2000, and some people are afraid to use them. Just remember that generators disappear from store shelves as quickly as bottled water before disasters. So, study it out in your mind to see if a generator is the right choice for you.
…you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right. But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong…
Doctrine and Covenants 9:8,9
Buy an Emergency Generator
Before you buy a generator read this Consumer Reports Buying Guide and “Does Your Home Need an Emergency Generator?“
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
- Do I need a permanently installed generator [cost $4,000 – $15,000], or portable generator [$400-$2000]?
- What do I want to power with my generator? What is the wattage I need?
- Will I be able to heat or cool my home with a generator?
- Can I start a generator by myself without my spouse?
- Is the food in my refrigerator and freezer worth the cost of a generator?
- Is there another way I can power my computer without a generator?
- Does my landlord allow me to have a generator?
- Do I have space outside to keep a generator? (NEVER use a generator inside a home.)
- A generator is loud when running. Do I want the world to know I have a generator?
- How much fuel will my city allow me to store for my generator?
- Where will I safely store the fuel for my generator?
- What length of heavy-duty extension cord do I need?
TIP It’s a good idea to lock your generator if you run it at night. Generators are loud and have been known to disappear.
Buying an emergency generator is a big decision, but you can do it! Ours came from Costco.
Best wishes and be safe,
Valerie Albrechtsen
The Food Storage Organizer
Purchase my food storage and emergency preparedness items in my Etsy shop.
