When the Power Goes Out, Are You Ready?
Missouri winters are unpredictable. Ice storms, heavy snow, and high winds regularly knock out power across St. Charles County—sometimes for days. A properly installed and maintained generator isn't a luxury; it's essential home protection.
Understanding Your Generator Options
Portable Generators
Best for: Occasional, short-term outages
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower upfront cost | Manual startup required |
| Can be stored away | Limited power output |
| Fuel flexibility | Extension cord hazards |
Critical Safety Note: Never run a portable generator indoors or in an attached garage. Carbon monoxide poisoning kills dozens of Americans every year during power outages.
Standby (Whole-House) Generators
Best for: Automatic, whole-home protection
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Automatic startup | Higher installation cost |
| Powers entire home | Requires professional install |
| Natural gas/propane fuel | Permit required |
| No extension cords | Regular maintenance needed |
Pre-Winter Generator Checklist
For Portable Generators
- [ ] Test run for 30 minutes under load
- [ ] Check oil level and condition
- [ ] Inspect fuel lines for cracks
- [ ] Verify spark plug condition
- [ ] Stock fresh fuel (stabilized)
- [ ] Test all extension cords
- [ ] Confirm carbon monoxide detectors work
For Standby Generators
- [ ] Schedule professional maintenance
- [ ] Test automatic transfer switch
- [ ] Verify fuel supply (propane level or gas connection)
- [ ] Check battery condition
- [ ] Clear debris from around unit
- [ ] Update exercise schedule
- [ ] Review last service date
Transfer Switch: The Critical Safety Component
Never connect a generator directly to your electrical panel without a transfer switch.
Why? Without a transfer switch:
- Power can back-feed into utility lines, endangering workers
- Your home isn't protected from surges when power returns
- You risk damaging appliances and the generator
- It violates electrical code and voids insurance
First Choice Electric installs both manual and automatic transfer switches for safe generator operation.
Sizing Your Generator Correctly
Undersized generators can't handle your needs. Oversized ones waste fuel and money.
Essential circuits to power:
| Circuit | Typical Wattage |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 150-400W |
| Sump pump | 800-1,500W |
| Furnace blower | 500-800W |
| Well pump | 1,000-2,000W |
| Lights (LED) | 50-200W total |
| Phone/internet | 50-100W |
Startup surge: Many appliances need 2-3x their running wattage to start. Factor this into your calculations.
Professional Generator Installation
First Choice Electric provides complete generator solutions:
- Load assessment - Calculate your actual power needs
- Generator sizing - Recommend the right unit
- Permit acquisition - Handle all paperwork
- Professional installation - To code, inspected
- Transfer switch installation - Safe, automatic switching
- Maintenance plans - Keep your investment running
Don't Wait for the Storm
Ice storms don't send advance notice. Schedule your generator consultation now—before the next outage leaves you in the cold.
Call First Choice Electric at (636) 240-2966 for a free estimate on generator installation in St. Charles County.