Be Prepared! Get Your Emergency Electricity Sources for the Next Outage
You know the scene all too well — you’re sitting in your home, enjoying a movie night or trying to finish off some work when suddenly everything goes dark. It’s a power outage, and you find yourself powerless—literally.
Preparing for such emergencies is of greater importance. So, what should you do? Firstly, you need to understand all kinds of power outages so as to plan accordingly. Then, look into emergency electricity sources that will keep essentials running during power outages.
This post will explore everything you need to know about emergency electricity sources to help you prepare for the next outage.
Overview of Power Outages - Why You Need Emergency Electricity Sources
Short-term(rolling blackouts) and long-term power outages are the two basic categories. An overload usually causes a short-term power outage on the local grid or some other technical issue that disrupts electricity flow in the area. Usually, the rolling blackout usually lasts only a few hours. But during extreme weather conditions like thunderstorms, these outages can last longer depending on what’s causing them.
Long-term blackouts are typically caused by more serious issues, such as natural disasters or infrastructure damage. This kind of outage usually lasts an extended period of time.
Blackout Plan Checklist
No matter what kind of power outage you’re dealing with, having some basic supplies will help make your life easier during the blackout period.
- Flashlight/emergency lights and extra batteries
- Battery-operated radio for news updates
- Non-perishable foods like canned goods
- Essential medications, if needed
- Water purification tablets in case tap water aren't safe to drink
- A manual can opener
- Blankets and warm clothing items in case the temperature drops during the outage
- Emergency power sources for your cell phone or other devices
Short-Term Emergency Electricity Sources
For short-term blackouts, you’ll need a power source or power station that can provide enough electricity to keep the essentials running. Here are some of the best options:
Rechargeable Batteries and Chargers
This is most likely the most basic option for short-term disruptions. Prepare some rechargeable batteries to power small devices such as flashlights. It’s a perfect choice if you only require a few hours of electricity.
Portable Power Bank
If you’re looking for something with more capacity, a portable power bank may be the way to go. These devices usually have enough juice to keep your phone charged and also allow you to charge other smaller electronic items like tablets or cameras.
Portable Generators
If a power outage happens, it is advised to purchase a generator. There are various conventional gas-powered generators on the market. Having one solar generator is recommended as they're much quieter and more eco-friendly. Solar generators can provide enough electricity to power your home appliances for several days or even weeks. They’re usually rated in wattage, so you can figure out what size solar generator is right for your needs.
Long-Term Emergency Electricity Sources
You can invest in more lasting solutions for prolonged blackouts, such as solar panels or generators that produce electricity. Some of the more well-liked choices are as follows:
Fixed Solar Panels
A great alternative that repeatedly and reliably provides power over time is installing fixed solar panels. They also have the added bonus of not polluting the environment. Fixed solar panels may be pricey, too, and their installation is best left to an expert.
Solar Generators
In the event of a power outage, solar generators are an amazing option for providing unlimited energy. They do, however, have the extra virtue of portability. Furthermore, solar generators are plug-and-play, eliminating the need for finding a professional.
Other Generators
More generators, such as gas-powered generators, are available for long-term outages. They are a reliable supply of electricity. However, professional installation and routine maintenance, such as oil changes and refilling, are required. Besides, gas-powered generators produce a lot of noise, making them unsuitable for quiet use.
How to Choose the Best Emergency Electricity Sources
When it comes to choosing an emergency power source, here are some factors you need to consider.
Consider the Power Source
The first thing you need to do is decide what kind of power source you’ll choose. If you’re looking for a greener and more sustainable way, solar generators may be the best for you.
Consider the Power Demand
Next, consider how much power you’ll need. What will need power the most in your home? Do you have any medical devices to be powered? Do you need a night light to feel safe?
You should prioritize items like that, and take a look around your home to determine if anything else is essential to how you live your daily life.
Working Time
Once you’ve chosen the right type and size of generator or panel, it’s essential to factor in its capacity and lasting time/working period. This is especially important if you need a generator or panel to provide power during long-term blackouts.
Additional Bonus - UPS/EPS Feature
Another factor to consider is the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) or Emergency Power Supply (EPS) feature, which allows your sensitive loads like computers to keep running even when a blackout occurs. Advanced solar generators like Growatt INFINITY 1500 have this built-in feature - EPS, which can be a lifesaver during an unexpected power outage.
Cost and Warranty
Finally, don’t forget to consider cost and warranty when shopping around. Make sure you get the best bang for your buck by comparing prices between various brands or stores and checking what kind of warranty coverage each offers.
Conclusion
Having a reliable power supply is essential in daily life. So prepare for the worst and get emergency electrical sources before the next outage. Rechargeable batteries, portable solar generators, and solar panels are all great options. With these prepared, you can stay safe and connected during any blackout.
Get Growatt Emergency Electricity Sources
FAQ
What should you do in the event of an emergency?
It’s time to start looking into your options for emergency electrical sources. You should have rechargeable batteries and a portable solar generator to access reliable power during a blackout.
How can I get electricity without a generator?
Aside from purchasing a generator, another alternative is to install permanent solar panels or have a battery backup.
