How do I choose a backup generator?

If you live in an area prone to frequent weather-induced power outages, consider investing in a portable electric generator, which can help power your family through monsoon storms.
 
Before you buy, figure out which of your home’s appliances you would power with your generator. You might want to keep the refrigerator up and running, for example, but can live without the dishwasher and oven until the lights come back on.
 
Add the total wattage of your must-have appliances, and let that guide you as you decide how big a generator you should buy. Typically, a 4,500- to 5,000-watt generator will suffice for household emergencies, but keep in mind you may not be able to power all appliances at once.
 
Larger generators can solve that problem, but it likely won’t be worth the strain on your wallet.
 
Before turning the generator on, check that the electrical load will not exceed the manufacturer’s rating. Turn off large appliances you don’t need, such as clothes washers, dryers and dishwashers.
 
The most important thing to do once you get your generator: Have a qualified electrician install a transfer switch in your electrical system. Plugging a generator into a regular household outlet could send a surge of electricity onto a downed power line. That surge can injure or even kill someone who is working to restore power to the line.
 
Notify your electric utility before you use your generator for the first time.

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