Powering Through the Storm: A Guide to Backup Generators for Hurricane Readiness

As any Floridian can tell you, hurricane season is a stressful time to live in the sunshine state. Those familiar “cones of uncertainty” start appearing on weather forecasts, and people start planning how best to protect their property, loved ones, and livelihoods.

While no one can control the weather, you can control your level of preparedness—and one of the most important tools for hurricane readiness is a reliable generator. Far from a luxury, a generator is a lifeline to safety, comfort, and—for businesses—operational continuity.

This guide will walk you through the essentials of hurricane season, the role of generators, what kind you might need, how much they cost, and how they impact your insurance. At Wallace, Welch & Willingham, we’re committed to helping you weather any storm with confidence.

Understanding Hurricane Season in Florida

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale categorizes storms by their sustained wind speeds, ranging from:

• Tropical depressions (wind speeds up to 38 mph)
• Tropical storms (39–73 mph)
• Hurricanes (74 mph and above, divided into Categories 1 through 5)

Hurricane season in Florida officially runs from June 1 to November 30. During these months, the risk of these storms is at its peak.

Florida’s geography makes it particularly vulnerable to hurricanes. Surrounded by warm waters, the state is often in the path of major storms that can intensify quickly. That’s why preparation can’t be just a last-minute scramble—it should be a year-round responsibility. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to find supplies, secure your property, and get professional help if needed.

A Checklist of Hurricane Essentials

With hurricanes, preparation is one of your best defenses against damage. Here’s a checklist to help you get ready.

Secure Your Property

• Windows & Doors: Install storm shutters or cover with plywood.
• Trees & Debris: Trim branches and clear yard debris to prevent projectiles.
• Roofs & Gutters: Inspect for leaks and ensure gutters are clear.
• Outdoor Items: Secure furniture, grills, and loose objects.
• Drainage: Check for proper drainage to prevent flooding.

Build Your Emergency Supply Kit

• Water: Store 1 gallon per person per day for 3–7 days.
• Non-perishable Food: Enough for 3–7 days.
• First-Aid Kit & Medications: Include prescription meds and basic supplies.
• Flashlights, Batteries, Hand-Crank Radio: For light and emergency updates during a power outage.
• Important Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance, and bank info in a waterproof bag or cloud storage.
• Cash: ATMs and card readers may be down after a storm.
• Pet Supplies: Food, water, medications, and carriers for your animals.

Evacuation Planning

• Know Your Zone: Learn your evacuation zone and routes.
• Meeting Points: Designate where your family or team will regroup.
• Pet Planning: Have leashes, travel cases, pet food, and other necessary pet supplies at the ready.
• Full Gas Tank: Keep vehicles fueled up throughout hurricane season.

Insurance Documentation

• Photos/Videos: Document your property and valuables annually and make updates if a storm’s approaching.
• Inventory Storage: Keep this inventory in the cloud or a waterproof container for easy access when filing insurance claims.

Should You Use a Generator During a Hurricane?

Both during and after a hurricane, a generator can be a game-changer: they provide backup power for essential appliances like refrigerators, medical devices, lights, and communication equipment. For businesses, generators help keep security systems, servers, and critical operations running, minimizing downtime and financial loss.

When considering whether to invest in a generator, think about how often your area loses power, which appliances are critical for your safety or business continuity, and your available budget. Remember also that in Florida’s intense heat, air conditioning is more than a comfort—it can be a health necessity, especially for vulnerable populations.

Generators provide peace of mind and continuity during the long aftermath of a storm, when power restoration may take days or even weeks. However, always prioritize safety: operate generators outside and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and be alert for floodwaters and fire hazards.

When Should You Not Use a Generator?

While a generator can be invaluable, there are important safety rules to follow:

• Never run a generator indoors or in any enclosed space, as this can lead to deadly carbon monoxide buildup.
• Avoid using a generator during flooding, as water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
• Always turn off the generator and let it cool down fully before refueling to prevent fires.
• If you lack the proper transfer switch, do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring, as this can create a risk for utility workers.
• If severe weather is ongoing—such as heavy rain or lightning—wait until conditions improve before operating your generator.

How Big of a Generator Do You Need for a Hurricane?

For a typical 2,000 square foot home, a generator producing something between 6,000 and 10,000 watts is usually sufficient to power essentials like the refrigerator, lights, laptops, basic electronics, and possibly a small air conditioning unit or water heater. Larger homes or businesses with more demanding equipment may require more powerful units. The key is to list your must-have appliances and calculate their combined wattage, ensuring your generator can handle the load without being overtaxed.

Types of Generators

There are three main types of generators to consider for hurricane preparedness, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Let’s consider each to decide the best generator for you.

Portable Generators

Portable generators are a popular choice because they’re relatively affordable and can be moved where needed. However, they require manual setup and refueling. Their power output is limited, so you’ll need to prioritize which appliances to run.

Standby (Whole House) Generators

Standby (whole house) generators are permanently installed and connect directly to your home or business’s electrical system. They start automatically when the power goes out and can run on natural gas or propane for extended periods. While they involve a higher upfront investment and require professional installation, they offer unmatched convenience and reliability for your entire home.

Inverter Generators

Inverter generators are known for producing clean, stable power, making them an ideal emergency power source for sensitive electronics and medical devices. They’re quieter and more fuel-efficient than traditional portable models, though they typically have a lower total output, shorter run time, and higher price per watt than conventional power equipment.

Fuel Types

Generators run on different fuels. Each fuel source comes with pros and cons:

• Gasoline: Easy to find, but limited shelf life and needs careful storage.
• Diesel: Efficient and longer shelf life, but less available during emergencies.
• Natural Gas: No refueling needed for gas generators connected to the utility line, but can be disrupted in major storms.
• Propane: Long shelf life and clean-burning, but requires propane tank storage.
• Dual-Fuel/Tri-Fuel: Flexibility to use what’s available.

The Average Cost of Installing a Whole House Generator

The cost of installing a whole-home generator typically ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, including equipment and professional installation. Smaller systems may cost less, while larger or more complex setups can exceed $15,000. Factors affecting the price include the generator’s size, brand, installation requirements, and local labor rates. While this is a significant investment, the security and convenience it provides—especially for businesses—often outweigh the upfront expense.

Generator Safety

Safety should always be your top priority when operating a generator for hurricane readiness. Follow these important guidelines to avoid accident or injury:

• Carbon Monoxide: Always run generators outside, at least 20 feet from windows and doors. Install CO detectors in your home or business.
• Electrical Safety: Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords. Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. Consult with an electrician if you’re unsure about your electrical setup.
• Fuel Storage: Store fuel in approved containers, away from living areas and ignition sources.
• Maintenance: Regularly check oil, filters, and battery. Follow manufacturer guidelines.
• Fire Prevention: Keep the area around the generator clear and have a fire extinguisher nearby.

FAQs about Generators for Hurricanes

Will FEMA Reimburse You for a Generator after a Hurricane?

FEMA generally does not reimburse individuals for generator purchases, as they are considered preparedness items. However, in some declared disasters, assistance may be available for those with medical needs. Always check FEMA’s latest guidelines for updates.

What’s the Most Cost Effective Fuel for a Generator?

Natural gas is usually the most cost-effective option if you have access, followed by propane. Diesel and gasoline tend to be more expensive, especially during emergencies.

Can a Generator Damage a Refrigerator?

If a generator produces unstable power or voltage spikes, it can damage sensitive appliances like refrigerators. Using an inverter generator or one with automatic voltage regulation helps protect your equipment.

What’s the Lifespan of a Whole House Generator?

A well-maintained whole house generator can last 15 to 30 years with regular servicing, depending on usage.

Does an AC Unit Work on Generators?

Yes, air conditioner units can be powered by generators, but only if it’s sized to handle the load. Central air conditioning and HVAC units require significant wattage, so check your system’s requirements to make sure you choose a generator that can handle the output necessary.

Generators and Home and Business Insurance: What You Need to Know

Having a generator for hurricane situations can help mitigate certain insurance risks by keeping food fresh, security systems active, and reducing downtime for businesses. This can lead to faster recovery and potentially lower claims.

However, generators also introduce new liabilities, such as fire risks from improper fuel storage, carbon monoxide exposure, and electrical hazards from incorrect installation. Don’t wait until a hurricane is on the horizon to get prepared. Investing in a generator for hurricane readiness is a smart move for both homeowners and business owners, providing safety, comfort, and operational continuity when it matters most.

At W3, we secure coverage personalized for what matters most to you. Contact W3 today to speak with an insurance advisor and make sure you’re ready for whatever this hurricane season brings.