Living in Houma, Morgan City, Thibodaux, and the surrounding areas of Louisiana means preparing for severe weather is essential. From hurricanes to unpredictable storms, power outages are not uncommon, and a whole home generator can be a lifesaver during these critical times. Shockwave Generators & Electric is here to guide you on how to ensure your generator is ready to keep your home powered, safe, and comfortable when severe weather strikes.
1. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Before hurricane season or major storm warnings, it’s crucial to have your whole home generator inspected by a licensed professional. Our team at Shockwave Generators & Electric will check for any potential issues that could affect performance, such as low oil levels, clogged filters, or worn-out parts. A quick inspection can make all the difference when the power goes out.
Tip: It’s a good idea to schedule your generator maintenance at least once a year, preferably before storm season begins, to ensure it’s in top shape.
2. Keep Your Generator Area Clear
Make sure the area around your generator is free from debris, branches, and other obstructions. Severe weather can cause flying debris that might block air vents, damage the unit, or even cause safety hazards. Keep a minimum clearance of two to three feet around the generator to maintain proper airflow and reduce the risk of damage.
Tip: Regularly check the generator’s surrounding area, especially if a storm is forecasted, to remove any loose objects that could become airborne.
3. Stock Up on Fuel
Your generator is only as good as its fuel supply. Whether your generator runs on propane, natural gas, or diesel, it’s essential to ensure you have enough fuel on hand to keep it running through an extended outage. Check your fuel levels and arrange for refills or extra propane tanks if needed.
Tip: Consider installing an automatic fuel monitoring system for peace of mind, allowing you to track your generator’s fuel levels without manually checking.
4. Test Your Generator Regularly
To ensure your generator will work when you need it most, run a test before severe weather hits. Shockwave Generators & Electric can help you with a thorough system check or provide guidance on performing a simple test at home. Power up the generator, check the transfer switch, and monitor your home’s critical systems to verify everything runs smoothly.
Tip: Set up a monthly reminder to perform a quick test run of your generator to catch any issues early.
5. Secure Your Home’s Electrical Needs
Whole home generators are designed to handle your household’s essential systems, such as HVAC, refrigeration, and lighting. During severe weather, prioritize which appliances and devices are most important. Shockwave Generators & Electric can help you evaluate your home’s power requirements and ensure your generator is properly sized to manage critical loads during an outage.
Tip: Consider adding a surge protector to safeguard sensitive electronics during power fluctuations, especially when the generator kicks in.
6. Create an Emergency Plan
Severe weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to have a solid emergency plan in place. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to operate the generator in case of an outage. Have a list of necessary contact numbers, including Shockwave Generators & Electric, for emergency service or repairs.
Tip: Download a weather-tracking app that provides real-time updates and alerts for storms in the Houma, Morgan City, and Thibodaux areas, so you’re always prepared.
7. Consider Upgrading to an Automatic Transfer Switch
If your whole home generator doesn’t already have an automatic transfer switch (ATS), now may be the perfect time to upgrade. An ATS automatically senses when the power goes out and switches to generator power without any manual intervention. This ensures your home stays powered during an outage even if you’re not there to flip the switch.
Tip: Contact us at Shockwave Generators & Electric to discuss upgrading your generator with an ATS for seamless, automatic power restoration.
8. Stay Informed During the Storm
As a resident of south Louisiana, staying informed during a storm is vital. Make sure your weather radios, smartphones, and backup power sources are ready to go. Keep in touch with family and neighbors, and follow local updates regarding evacuations or storm progress.
Tip: Charge all necessary devices before the storm hits, and consider having a whole home standby generator system installed and ready in case of prolonged outages.
Prepare for the Storm with Shockwave Generators & Electric
Don’t wait until the next storm to make sure your whole home generator is ready to protect your family. Contact Shockwave Generators & Electric today for an inspection, maintenance, or installation of a new generator system, including Generac. Serving Houma, Morgan City, Thibodaux, and the surrounding areas, we’re here to help you stay powered when severe weather hits.
Call us at (985) 261-0937 or schedule your service online today.
