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Backup Generator Do's and Don'ts

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An at-home generator is a back-up system installed outside of your house. It serves to protect your home and family from a power failure by turning on automatically if the grid is compromised by either a natural or man-made disaster. If you've decided to install a generator and make this home improvement, you are on your way to keeping your family safer and more comfortable, despite the unpredictability of life and nature's potential wrath. As with most things, there is a right way and a wrong way to proceed. Before you buy, make sure to jot down these must-know, backup generator do's and don'ts.

Do Your Due Diligence – At-home generators are fueled with either natural gas or propane. Do have your natural gas service evaluated by a professional to determine if any changes or alterations to your gas pressure, service size, volume requirement or meter are needed, prior to having your generator installed.

Don't DIY – Installing a backup generator requires knowledge of local and applicable regulations, codes and laws, as well as hands-on experience. Reputable home generator dealers typically provide installation and maintenance service for both the generator and backup switch it requires. You might be the handiest tool in the tool box, but this is a job typically better left to the pros. If you do decide to DIY, or hire an outside contractor to do the deed for you, situate your generator in an open-air environment and follow manufacturer instructions and National Electric Codes guidelines exactly, as these allow for no leeway or second guessing. The purpose of installing an at-home generator is increased safety and security for your family. Don't compromise that goal by leaving anything to chance.

Do Install and Maintain Fire and CO2 Detectors – Battery-operated or plug-in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work in conjunction with home generators to provide an added layer of protection to your home during and after natural disasters.

Do Take Advantage of Rebates and Tax Incentives – If a member of your household has a medical condition that would be compromised by a power loss, you may be able to deduct part or all of the cost of your generator as a medical expense. You may also be able to qualify for renewable energy tax credit or offset your capital gains tax. Some manufacturers also offer a rebate upon purchase, so make sure to inquire before you buy.

Don't Wait – No area of the country has zero-susceptibility to natural disasters or power outages. These may last only a few hours or, in some cases, several weeks. A home generator can keep the power on and maintain your family's ability to weather the storm.

Corey Whelan is a freelance writer in New York. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

Learn more by visiting CBS New York's Storm Prep section

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