Entries by SiriusUSA

Protect Your Home and Family by Proper Planning

Daddy's HomePower outages can strike anytime, especially during severe weather. Being prepared is your best defense. Sirius Power is here to help you keep your family and home safe during the next outage or emergency.

1. Create a Family Emergency Plan

  • Compile a list of important phone numbers, including doctors, family members, and emergency contacts.
  • Plan an evacuation route and designate a meeting place in case communication is disrupted.
    Tip: Download our pre-prepared form.

2. Build an Emergency Kit

Pack essentials in a duffle bag or lidded container for at least three days. Include:

  • Non-perishable food and water
  • An LED flashlight
  • A battery-powered radio and clock
  • Extra batteries
  • A first aid kit
  • Cash and medications
  • Important documents stored on a USB drive or CD
    Tip: Download our Disaster Supply Checklist for detailed guidance.

3. Protect Your Appliances

  • Turn off major appliances like the water heater, oven, and air conditioning units.
  • Unplug TVs, stereos, computers, and other electronics to prevent damage when power is restored.
    Pro Tip: Leave one light on so you’ll know when the power comes back.

4. Know Your Electrical Panel

Learn how to locate and operate your main electrical panel. You may need to reset circuit breakers or turn off the main breaker after an outage.

5. Stay Safe Around Hazards

  • Avoid fallen wires, flooded areas, and storm debris.
  • Treat all downed wires and anything touching them as if they are live.

6. Consider a Standby Generator

A Sirius Power standby generator offers reliable protection for your home. Key features:

  • Permanently installed outside your home
  • Powered by natural gas or propane
  • Automatically activates when power goes out
  • Powers lights, heating/cooling, appliances, sump pumps, security systems, and more
    With a standby generator, you’ll have peace of mind—even when you’re away.

7. Use Portable Generators Safely

If you rely on a portable generator:

  • Use extension cords rated for the electrical load and length.
  • Ventilate properly to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning—never place a generator inside your home or garage.
  • Avoid direct connections to your home’s electrical system without a safety interlock. Plug appliances directly into the generator instead.

Need further Assistance?

Sirius Power Generation is here to help. Call us today at (337) 457-1818 for expert advice and solutions tailored to your needs.

Natural Gas / LP or Diesel

SiriusUSA

Backup Power: Protecting Your Home or Business During Outages

Backup power is more than just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. It keeps your family or employees safe, protects against significant financial losses, and ensures your business can remain operational during extended outages.

The Role of Automatic Standby Generators

Automatic standby generators are designed to take over seamlessly during a power outage. Here’s how they work:

  • Always On Standby: The generator monitors your utility power continuously.
  • Automatic Activation: When utility power is interrupted, the generator starts and switches your home or business to generator power without requiring any manual action.
  • Automatic Shutdown: Once utility power is restored, the generator shuts down and transitions back to the main power supply.

This hands-free operation ensures uninterrupted comfort and safety.

Gas vs. Diesel Generators:
Choosing the Right Option

One of the most common questions we receive is whether to choose a gas (natural gas or propane) or diesel generator. The answer depends on your specific needs, but here’s a comparison to guide your decision.

Key Factors to Consider

  1. Fuel Type
    • Gasoline is primarily used in portable generators and is excluded from this discussion.
    • Diesel and gas generators (natural gas or propane) are the primary options for long-term, permanent backup power.
  2. Longevity
    Both gas and diesel generators can last for many years with proper maintenance, but their lifespan depends on:

    • Component Quality: Higher-quality parts typically last longer.
    • Maintenance Practices: Regular servicing is essential for any generator.
    • Operating Conditions: Harsh environments may reduce lifespan.
    • Usage Patterns: Heavy or continuous use may require more frequent maintenance.

Diesel Generators

Advantages:

    • Durability: Diesel generators are built for demanding applications and continuous use, offering robust performance even under heavy loads.
    • Longer Lifespan: Typically, diesel engines last longer due to their construction and efficiency.
    • Efficiency: Diesel fuel has a higher energy density, meaning it generates more power per gallon.

Challenges:

    • Fuel Storage Issues: Diesel fuel can attract water and develop microbial contamination (commonly called the “diesel bug”), which can degrade fuel quality and lead to clogged filters or system blockages. Proper storage and fuel conditioning are essential.
    • Maintenance: Diesel systems require routine servicing to prevent microbial-induced corrosion (MIC) and other issues. Without treatment, stored diesel fuel may degrade within 6–12 months.

Natural Gas and Propane Generators

Advantages:

    • Cleaner Operation: Natural gas produces fewer byproducts, reducing engine wear and keeping components cleaner.
    • Consistent Fuel Supply: Natural gas is delivered through utility lines, eliminating the need for onsite storage.
    • Lower Temperatures: These engines operate at lower temperatures, potentially extending their lifespan.

Challenges:

    • Sensitivity: Natural gas generators can be more sensitive to operating conditions, requiring careful monitoring and maintenance.
    • Dependence on Utility Lines: In disasters that disrupt natural gas lines, the fuel supply may be interrupted.

Summary: Diesel or Gas?

Diesel generators generally offer a slightly longer lifespan due to their durability and efficiency, but natural gas generators can also last many years with proper care. Your choice will depend on factors like fuel availability, operating conditions, and specific power requirements.

Maximizing Generator Lifespan

To ensure the longevity of your generator:

    • Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines.
    • Schedule regular maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and system inspections.
    • Implement a fuel conditioning program if using diesel to prevent contamination.
    • Partner with a trusted provider like Sirius Power for low-cost preventive maintenance plans.

Need Expert Advice?

Still unsure which generator is right for you? Sirius Power Generation is here to help. Call us today at (337) 457-1818 for expert advice and solutions tailored to your needs.With our guidance, you can rest easy knowing your backup power system is ready when you need it most.