Be Prepared! Get Emergency Electricity Sources Before 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 these types of emergencies is now more pressing than ever before. So what do you need to do to be prepared? Well, first, you have to understand the different kinds of power outages that can occur so that you can plan accordingly. Then, it’s time to look into emergency electricity sources that will help keep your essentials running during a blackout.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about emergency electricity sources to prepare you for the next outage.
Overview of Power Outages - Why you need emergency electricity sources
There are two main types of power outages: short-term, otherwise known as rolling blackouts, and long-term. 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, this kind of outage lasts no more than a few hours. But during extreme weather conditions like thunderstorms, these outages can last longer depending on what’s causing them.
Long-term blackouts, on the other hand, usually occur due to a more severe problem like a natural disaster or an attack that damages infrastructure. These outages can last anywhere from days to weeks and even months.
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. Here are some things you should have ready ahead of time:
- Flashlight/emergency lights and extra batteries
- Battery-operated radio for news updates
- Non-perishable food items like canned goods and energy bars
- 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 probably the simplest solution for short-term outages. You can buy rechargeable AA and AAA batteries from most stores and use them with a battery charger to power small electronic devices like flashlights and radios. This is ideal if you just need a few hours of electrical power.
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
Finally, investing in a generator makes sense if you deal with a longer blackout period. There are plenty of conventional gas-powered generators on the market. Still, getting one powered by solar energy is recommended as they tend to be much quieter and more eco-friendly. Solar generators are great because they provide enough electricity to keep your home running for days or weeks. They’re typically rated in wattage, so you can figure out what size solar generator is right for your needs.
Long-Term Emergency Electricity Sources
Regarding long-term power outages, you can invest in a more permanent solution like solar panels or a generator. Here are some of the most popular options:
Fixed Solar Panels
Fixed solar panels are an excellent option if you want something that will generate electricity consistently and reliably over time. Plus, they have the added benefit of providing clean energy that won’t harm the environment. However, solar panels can be expensive, and they require the help of a professional to be installed properly.
Solar Generators
Solar generators are a great way to store and use solar energy for power outages. However, they offer the added benefit of portability. Solar generators provide enough electricity to keep your home running for long periods with minimal effort. Furthermore, solar generators have a plug-and-play or no installation required, saving you the hassle of needing a professional. Solar generators are also a very cost-effective option.
Other Generators
Other generators like gas-powered generators are great for long-lasting power outages. They provide a reliable source of electricity, and they’re widely available at an affordable price. However, they require professional installation and regular maintenance, such as oil changing and refueling. Additionally, gas-powered generators can be loud, so if you’re living in a residential area, it may not be the best solution.
How to Choose the Best Emergency Electricity Sources
When it comes to choosing an emergency power source, there are a few factors you need to consider.
Consider the Power Source
The first thing you need to do is decide which type of generator or panel you want. If you want something portable, a propane or lithium-powered generator may best suit your needs. If you’re looking for something more permanent, a solar panel or generator may be the way to go.
Consider the Power Demand
Next, consider how much power your generator will need to run all of your essentials. This will depend on how many watts you should get for the most to least urgent appliances. An idea of your estimated power consumption can help you choose the right size generator or panel for your needs.
Working Period
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.
UPS Feature
Another factor to consider is the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) feature, which allows certain devices like computers to stay running even when the power goes out. Advanced solar generators like INFINITY 1500 have this built-in feature, 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
Access to a reliable power supply is essential in daily life, especially during an unexpected power outage. 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.
FAQ
What to do when you need emergency power?
In an emergency, you should check for any power outages. If there is one, 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?
In addition to getting a generator, another option is to install fixed solar panels or having a battery backup. Many solar paneled houses are equipped with a battery system that allows them to store part of the energy they generate during the day. They can also be used as backup power during an outage.
