5 Reasons to Invest in a Backup Generator This Winter

November 20, 2024 | Nate Cord

As winter approaches the UK, the unpredictability of harsh weather can leave homeowners and businesses vulnerable to power outages. This is why it’s worth investing in a backup generator, providing you with complete peace of mind during these disruptions.

But if you’re not too clued up on generators, you might be thinking ‘what on earth is a backup generator and why do I need one?’. Well, you’re in the right place!

In this blog, we’ll explore what backup generators do, the different types available, and highlight 5 compelling reasons why you should consider this crucial investment this winter (and some might surprise you!).

From protecting your property against dropping temperatures to ensuring you have reliable power for essential appliances, a backup generator can be a true lifesaver when winter storms strike.

So, first things first…

What Does a Backup Generator Actually Do​?

In short, a backup generator provides temporary electrical power during a power outage or when the main power supply in the home or building is unavailable, as a result of storms (or grid failures).

Some standby backup generators can be connected to automatic transfer switches to detect the power outage and begin generating power within seconds, ensuring essential items and systems—such as heating, lighting, appliances, and security devices—continue to operate.

Standby backup generators automatically detect the power outage and begin generating power within seconds, ensuring essential items and systems—such as heating, lighting, appliances, and security devices—continue to operate.

Browse our wide range of backup generators, ideal for both home and business use.

If you need some additional help choosing a generator, read our Generator Buying Guide to get started.

The Types of Backup Generators​

These generators are often powered by fuels like petrol, diesel and LPG/natural gas and are available in a variety of different sizes, ranging from small portable units that can power essential devices (like lights and medical equipment) to large, whole-house generators that can automatically power an entire house or building).

Portable Backup Generators

Portable backup generators are, as it says in the name, movable and compact generators that are specially designed to provide temporary power.

These generators are typically powered by petrol, diesel or LPG/natural gas and are easy to transport (often featuring handles and wheels), allowing users to move them where power is needed, whether that be at home, on a job site, or during outdoor activities like camping.

Unlike standby generators (below), portable generators need to be started manually, and typically require refuelling after several hours of use.

Standby Generators

This type of generator is one that is permanently installed and connected to a home’s electrical system, and is designed to kick in within seconds of detecting a loss of power, ensuring that essential systems remain operational without needing to manually start it.

It is the automatic transfer switch (ATS) within a standby generator system that monitors the utility power supply, so when an outage occurs, the generator starts up automatically and transfers the electrical load to the generator.

Generators Direct stock a large range of standby generators for both home and business use, capable of supplying enough electricity to power essential appliances, heating and cooling systems.

Still not too sure which type of backup generator you need? Feel free to give our knowledgeable team a call on 01639 849847 for some expert advice.

5 Reasons Why You Should Invest in a Backup Generator This Winter

Investing in a backup generator for your home or business can provide numerous benefits, particularly in areas prone to power outages and extreme weather conditions, such as the UK.

Here are 5 reasons why you should invest in a backup generator this winter:

1. Uninterrupted Power Supply

The main reason millions of people invest in a backup generator is that they provide complete peace of mind that your home or business remains powered during outages.

This is especially important for businesses that rely on electricity for daily operations, such as restaurants, retail shops, cafes, manufacturing plants and medical facilities, as even a short interruption can lead to lost revenue and unhappy customers.

For homes, maintaining a continuous power supply is super important for keeping essential systems like heating, fridges/freezers, and lighting on. It also ensures that critical medical equipment, such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators, and other life-sustaining devices, remain functional, protecting the health and safety of vulnerable family members who depend on these devices to keep them alive.

2. Property Damage Prevention

Another reason why backup generators make for a great investment this winter is because houses or businesses left without heat can result in frozen or burst pipes and subsequent water damage when power is restored.

A backup generator prevents these issues from happening as they keep heating systems running, protecting your property from potential damage and (often) expensive repairs.

Without power, your home’s heating systems can’t function, leading to the risk of frozen or burst pipes, which can cause extensive water damage.

3. Enhanced Safety and Security

Another thing to keep in mind is that, when electricity goes off, so do all of the safety and security measures you have in place, whether it be smoke alarms in your home or CCTV in your business. A backup generator ensures that these essential safety and security systems remain operational, and your property doesn’t become vulnerable.

A backup generator also ensures lighting stays on during an outage, which prevents accidents and falls, especially during the evening/night time when storms are more prevalent.

4. Protection Against Food Spoilage and Waste

A lack of electricity throughout the home or business can quickly lead to food spoilage. A backup generator, however, helps maintain the proper temperature for food storage (namely refrigerators and freezers), protecting your food and preventing waste.

This is especially important for families and businesses in the food industry, where the loss of perishable products can result in large financial losses.

5. Increased Home Value

It’s also worth noting that having a standby backup generator installed can actually increase the value of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers when/ if you come to sell.
This is simply because many homebuyers view the presence of a generator as a valuable asset, particularly in areas prone to power outages.

This investment therefore not only provides immediate safety benefits during a lack of power but can also contribute to the long-term resale value of your home or business.

Are Second Hand Backup Generators Just as Good?

When investing in a backup generator, the choice between new and second-hand models can be significant, and in most cases, yes, second hand backup generators are just as good as new ones.

One of the most appealing aspects of buying a second-hand or ‘used’ backup generator is the reduced price. When shopping around you can often find high-quality models at a fraction of the cost of new ones, making it a perfect option if you’re on a budget.

If the generator has been well-maintained, it should have a track record of reliable performance. This is why it’s important to buy from a reputable seller, like Generators Direct, as they can often provide insights into how the generator has been used and maintained over its lifespan.

Searching For a Quality Generator This Winter?

At Generators Direct, we offer a range of generators, power stations and power banks for your specific needs this winter.

All of our products are manufactured, tested and certified to industry standards, and come with a price promise – you won’t find prices cheaper anywhere on the web, but if you do, we’ll match them. In addition to this, all orders come with free mainland UK shipping and after sales support from our experts.

If you require additional advice or have a question for our team, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us using this form or via phone at +441639849847. We’d be more than happy to assist you.