Backup Power Basics

Before buying anything, list what truly needs power. Ready.gov advises deciding what to power first, since you may not be able to run everything at once.

List and rank

1. Medical devices (see the medical plan)
2. Phones, radio and lights
3. Fridge, freezer, and any well pump or furnace fan
4. Everything else

Read the watts on each device’s label. Watts times hours gives watt-hours, which you compare to a battery’s capacity. Plan for less than the battery’s rated number.

Options

Option	Good for	Notes
Power bank	Phones, radios	Keep several charged
Battery power station	Lights, small devices, some medical	No fumes indoors, limited run time
Solar panel	Recharging banks and stations	Slow, weather-dependent
Portable generator	Fridge, freezer, larger loads	Outdoor only, needs fuel and safe cords
Standby generator	Whole-home loads	Licensed install, transfer equipment

Canada.ca notes battery or solar generators do not produce carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide warning. Generators, camp stoves, barbecues, charcoal, and kerosene or propane burners give off carbon monoxide, which you cannot see or smell and which can kill within minutes. Never use them indoors, or in a garage, basement, shed, tent or covered porch, even with doors and windows open. Outdoors, keep them at least 20 feet (6 m) from doors, windows and vents.

Rules that apply to all

• Never plug a generator into a wall outlet. This is called backfeeding and it endangers utility workers and neighbours.
• Connect to home wiring only through an approved transfer panel installed by a qualified electrician.
• Use surge-protecting power bars for electronics.