A Permanently Installed Backup Power System in a Home Can Keep the Lights on While Powering Through Winter’s Onslaught

In a world where utility power is failing more and more, an installed residential standby generator system provides a reliable supply of electricity.

Generator sets from Cummins Power Generation make backup power easy for residential applications. (Photo: Business Wire)

MINNEAPOLIS--()--It seems as if Old Man Winter has the entire country in its icy grip this year, with no letup in sight. Wave after wave of ice storms, blizzards and freezing cold have battered the East Coast from New England to Atlanta, creating a record year of power outages, school closings, stranded commuters, trapped homeowners and overall gridlock in places that typically don’t experience this kind of severe winter weather. Being without electrical power in dangerously low temps and with impassable roads can be inconvenient, costly and even dangerous.

“The U.S. is enduring winter weather and power outages unlike anything most of us have ever experienced. In extended power outages, homeowners face inconveniences as well as safety concerns and even possible financial losses,” said Vivek S. Malapati, Segment Leader - Residential and Light Commercial for Cummins Power Generation, “Being prepared is the key to solving power supply issues during severe weather. A proactive homeowner who wants the peace of mind and safety that come with reliable electric power should consider installing a permanent standby generator.”

Why install a permanent standby power system?

First and foremost, a permanently installed system is automatic. Once the utility power goes out a backup system is already in place and begins working within seconds. No waiting in lines for equipment, fuel and other potentially limited resources, and then taking it home to get it up and running…and that’s if the roads are open.

A typical residential standby power system consists of a fuel supply, a generator set and an automatic transfer switch (ATS) that connects to a home’s electric service panel. The fuel supply for the generator is usually a natural gas or propane. When the ATS detects a loss of utility power, it commands the generator to start. Then, the ATS switches the home from the utility to the generator, and the generator begins delivering power to the home’s distribution panel.

A good example of an advanced residential backup power system is the new Connect™ Series models from Cummins Power Generation. These models can withstand winds up to 150 mph and an automatic exercise function that ensures that the generators run when needed.

Consult an authorized dealer
Installing a permanent backup generator is not a DIY project. A qualified and licensed professional should handle the installation, which includes fuel and electrical connections in addition to these other steps:

  • Determining the right size and model of generator for the home
  • Applying for necessary permits
  • Installing the generator in a location that complies with applicable codes
  • Taking care of regular preventive maintenance and service calls
  • Answering questions and guiding the homeowner through the operation of the generator

To find out more about permanently installed backup power systems, consult a local dealer or visit http://power.cummins.com. For more information on emergency weather preparedness, visit http://powertoprepare.com/.

About Cummins Power Generation
Cummins Power Generation, a subsidiary of Cummins Inc. (NYSE: CMI), is a global leader dedicated to increasing the availability and reliability of electric power around the world. With more than 90 years of experience, the company’s global network of distributors in more than 190 countries delivers innovative solutions for any power need – commercial, industrial, recreational, emergency and residential.

Contacts

Cummins Power Generation
Madeline Foss, 651-787-6129
Marketing Communications Manager - Power Products
madeline.foss@cummins.com
or
Agency Contact:
Creative Communications Consultants, Inc.
Susan McPherson, 612-338-5098
President
smcpherson@cccinc.com

Release Summary

New Connect™ Series generator sets from Cummins Power Generation provide backup power for homeowners when weather interrupts utility power.

Contacts

Cummins Power Generation
Madeline Foss, 651-787-6129
Marketing Communications Manager - Power Products
madeline.foss@cummins.com
or
Agency Contact:
Creative Communications Consultants, Inc.
Susan McPherson, 612-338-5098
President
smcpherson@cccinc.com