Benefits of Having a Backup Propane Generator in the Winter

A power outage at any time is an inconvenience. In the middle of the winter, however, the potential consequences of being without power for an extended period can be serious. At the same time, ice storms and winter weather can make getting back up and running more difficult.

For these reasons and more, it’s worth it to have a backup generator on hand. When it comes to choosing a generator, homeowners have more options today than ever before. Propane is a great, reliable choice — one that’s ideally suited for Virginia’s winter weather.

Do Propane Generators Work in Cold Weather?

Propane has a freezing point of -44°F — well below temperatures typically seen in the Mid-Atlantic region. Compared to gasoline generators, propane-powered models are less likely to freeze or experience difficulty starting during cold weather. Additionally, propane is cost-effective and more environmentally friendly, making it a smart choice for both homes and businesses.

If you live in an area that is unusually cold, or that is prone to extreme winter weather, there are a few things you can do to reduce wear and tear on a propane generator. Consider purchasing a cold weather kit that will prevent your battery from freezing and keep fluids flowing smoothly. It’s also worth it to switch to SAE 5W-30 motor oil during the winter months.

Other than that, keep your propane generator easily accessible, exercise it periodically and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, and you’ll have reliable backup power all your long.

Benefits of Having a Backup Propane Generator in the Winter

Besides being easy to use, there are multiple additional benefits to having a backup propane generator in the winter. Propane generators offer:

• Backup heating: If your home runs on electric heat, a backup generator is essential during the winter months. Cold temperatures are not just uncomfortable — they can exacerbate respiratory conditions or cause other health problems for vulnerable people. In rural areas, especially, repairing downed electrical lines can take days, so a backup generator gives you the peace of mind of knowing you’ll enjoy uninterrupted heat while repairs are in progress.
• Power for appliances: Backup generators are for more than heating. They also power appliances such as refrigerators, stoves and electronics. With a backup generator, life can go on as it did before — you don’t have to worry about food spoilage, data loss or feeding your family.
• Reliability: Propane generators can be set up to turn on as soon as grid power fails, preventing any potential interruption. Additionally, propane is readily available even when gas pumps go down, and won’t degrade, meaning that there’s no risk in storing an extra fuel tank for an extended period.
• Safe handling: Unlike gasoline, which is stored in open containers, propane comes in sealed tanks that are safe to handle. With a propane generator, there’s no risk of spillage or of leaks that can create a hazard in the dark.
• Environmentally friendly: Propane is a clean-burning fuel that’s better for the environment than gasoline or diesel. As well, because it produces fewer by-products, your generator won’t accumulate contamination and carbon deposits, leading to less maintenance.

All told, these benefits make propane generators one of the best values on the market today. A small investment in a unit that’s sized for your home will keep you safe during winter outages and protect your property in an emergency.

Trust Foster Fuels for All Your Propane Needs

When choosing a propane generator, it’s essential to select a model that will deliver appropriate power while remaining affordable to run. That’s why it’s important to buy from a company that knows what they’re doing and can provide expert advice.

Foster Fuels has been Virginia’s fuel and power experts since 1921. We offer home propane delivery as well as generator sales and service through our Hearth & Home Store. We’d be happy to help you go over your requirements and select the best model for your needs and your budget. Contact us today for more information.