Utility power loss is one of the most significant dangers associated with a severe storm. As a result, portable generators for home backup power are an increasingly important aspect of emergency preparation. As witnessed after Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy, the lack of some type of electricity generator can result in dangerous living conditions.

Of the available generator types, portable generators for home backup power are the most popular. Ease of use and low cost are two primary benefits of portable units.

Several aspects should be considered when selecting the best portable generator for your home. The primary factors are fuel type (gasoline, natural gas, propane, tri-fuel), power output (watts), and starting mechanism (pull, electric).

First, decide on the fuel type. The most common fuel type used in a portable home electricity generator is gasoline. But gasoline goes bad rather quickly. Six months is the approximate shelf-life without an additional additive such as Sta-Bil. Even with Sta-Bil, the maximum reliable shelf-life is about a year.

Compared to gasoline, natural gas is a better choice because natural gas is inexpensive, delivered through a reliable underground gas line, and never goes bad.

Propane offers similar benefits to natural gas but requires a large propane tank. Therefore, you should only consider propane if you already have a large propane tank installed on your property.

There are also several manufacturers that produce tri-fuel generators. These can run on gasoline, natural gas, or propane. This fuel flexibility is fantastic during an emergency.

Calculating your wattage needs requires that you decide on which items are required during a utility power loss. Lights, refrigerator, stove/oven and heat source, are typical necessities. But things like a television and microwave can make life a lot easier and should be considered. Not all appliances need to run simultaneously. For example, a blender and microwave do not need to operate at the same time. Most appliances have a data plate that lists required running watts. The owner's manual for a stove, refrigerator or other major appliance, is also a good source of information. Take all these wattage ratings from the various appliances and pieces of equipment, add them up, and the total is your wattage requirement.

The last consideration is pull start or electric start. A manual pull start is okay for most people. But if you have a physical limitation, spend a little extra and get an electricity generator with electric start. It makes life much easier and the cost difference is minimal.

Consumers who follow these basic steps when choosing portable generators for home use will definitely be prepared for the next big storm.