Conservation Corner – December 2025

Thinking About a Home Generator? Consider These Key Factors

When evaluating whether to purchase a generator to keep your home powered up during power outages, begin by identifying your essential needs. Determine which appliances or systems you want to operate during an outage and calculate their total wattage to select an appropriately sized generator for your home.

Assess whether a generator is necessary for your situation. The average U.S. household experiences approximately seven hours of power loss annually (for Columbia REA members, it’s more like one to two hours per year), which may not justify the investment for everyone.

Consult your electric utility for expert guidance on selecting and safely installing a generator. Safety is paramount: generators must never be used indoors or within 20 feet of your home. Improper connections can create hazards for utility personnel; always plug appliances directly into the generator, never into your home’s electrical system.

Types of Generators

• Portable Generators cost between $400 and $2,000, and are suitable for basic needs like running a refrigerator or window air conditioner. Inverter models offer cleaner power for sensitive electronics at a higher price.
• Standby Generators typically cost around $7,000 or more, not including the cost of permanent installation. These units automatically power your entire home during outages and require professional installation, permitting, and inspection.
• Battery Systems or BESS can be charged with Solar installations or while grid power is available. These systems are quiet, easy to use, and can be paired with solar panels for nighttime energy. They are less powerful and often more expensive but offer convenience and aesthetics.

Safety First

While generators can be very convenient, they can also be very dangerous if installed improperly, so remember:

• Connecting a generator to a home’s electrical circuits without a transfer switch is a safety hazard.
• Improperly connected generators can produce voltage that can cause injury or death to Columbia REA employees working on utility lines and equipment or to the public that may come in contact with downed lines or hazardous equipment.
• Backup generator installations must be approved by Columbia REA before installation.
• All installations must meet applicable codes, including the National Electrical Code, and be approved by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.
• The transfer switch must be designed in such a way that it cannot physically connect the utility power and the backup generator power at the same time. Examples of terms equipment manufacturers may use to refer to these types of switches include break-before-make, double-throw, or mechanically interlocked.

Do Some Homework (We Can Help)

Today’s technology provides a range of options, from comprehensive backup solutions to minimal coverage, allowing you to choose the level of preparedness that best fits your needs. Consult Columbia REA for guidance on selecting and safely installing a generator. Safety is the first consideration, for you and your family and property, as well as your Columbia REA line crew. Please call us with any questions.

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Charlie DeSalvo, Energy Efficiency Specialist

If you have any questions about energy efficiency, email Charlie DeSalvo or call (509) 526-4041.