Why You Should Invest in an Emergency Generator in the Winter

With winter now upon us, if you have not already purchased an emergency generator for your home, you may very well want to go out and get one now.  With the winter season comes the increased potential for power outages.  Frigid, bitter temperatures, ice, wind and even snow are all winter elements that can pose safety concerns for your home and family.  With that said, we would like to share with you some of the benefits of purchasing and owning a generator in the cold winter months.

BENEFITS OF OWNING AN EMERGENCY GENERATOR

  • Provides Necessary Heat During a Storm – First and foremost, an emergency generator will certainly keep you and your family as well as your household warm when the power goes out. Typically, with a power outage you lose the main source of the heat supply to your home, which means that the temperatures indoors may drop quickly and be comparable to those outdoors.  This is definitely a safety concern for your family.  A generator can keep your furnace up and running until such time that your main power is restored to your home.  This will allow for you and your family to remain comfortable and warm while the cold weather storm continues outdoors.
  • Keeps the Pipes from Freezing – When the power goes out in the winter months there is an increased risk of your pipes freezing.  When you invest in an emergency generator you reduce this risk because the temperature inside of your living space remains stable and warm and your hot water tank is able to continue running thereby minimizing any risk of pipes freezing.
  • Keeps your Electronics Powered Up and Charged – For many of us, it is important to have access to our essential electronics in our home whether phones, printers, laptops and the likes. A generator will allow you to do just that and afford you the means you need to communicate with others and retrieve all the current weather updates as needed.  For many who work at home, having access to a fully functioning computer during a power outage is an absolute must do.

Winter storms can be both untimely and unpredictable, causing power outages at the most inopportune times.  Investing in an emergency generator is a surefire way of being proactive and handling any power outages that may occur during the cold weather months.  A generator may not be able to restore the full power to your home, but will certainly allow you to be able to stay warm and comfortable and still have access to all your important appliances and electronics.

AFFORDABLE PEACE OF MIND

When you choose to purchase a generator, you are not only investing in an affordable option for your home and family, but in the peace of mind every homeowner wants and needs.  There is nothing quite as frustrating and troubling than when the power goes out in your home.  From lost food in the refrigerator, discomfort for your family, and the inability to perform daily functions the downside of power outages are many.  However, when you put your trust into an affordable emergency generator rest assured your worries are minimized.

Gervais Electric takes tremendous pride in our top of the line electrical services we provide to all our valued clients and that includes insight on which emergency generator is best suited to your home and family.  For more information about generators or if you are in need of any type of electrical services, be sure to reach out to Gervais Electric.  With the holiday season upon us, we send along wishes to all our valued clients for a safe and happy holiday season!

Important Facts About GFCI Outlets

GFCI outlets are required to be placed in certain locations throughout your home as per the National Electric Code.  It is especially important that homeowners who have not updated the outlets in older homes, reach out to their electricians to have the necessary outlets installed.

WHAT IS GFCI AND A BIT OF ITS HISTORY

GFCI stands for Ground-Fault Circuit Interruption.  These specialized devices help to protect individuals from experiencing electric shocks from faults that exist in the electrical devices within your home or office.  The outlets work by comparing the input current on the hot side to the output current located on the neutral side.  These specialized outlets can sense if and when there is a problem with an electrical device that can ultimately lead to an electric shock.  The outlets respond immediately to potential dangers by cutting the power to the outlet itself as well as the power to the specific device that is plugged into the outlet, thereby protecting both the individual and your home or office from dangerous issues.

There have been specific requirements in place since 1962 with regard to underwater lighting used for swimming pools because of the potential risk of shock when the electricity and water come in contact with one another.  Because of this scenario and concern, a fail-safe ground requirement was put in place in 1971 which automatically turns off the electricity if the amperage reaches a level greater than 30V. In 1971 the requirement for ‘single phase receptacles’ which have the capability of receiving 15-20 amps, especially in construction sites first starting out, became a requirement.  Later in the year home requirements were set at 120V for outdoor outlets with a 15-20-amp requirement indoors.   With continued concern for safety kitchens, wet bars, motels and hotels were also forced to follow these requirements as were bathrooms.  GFCI outlets were, therefore, required for all construction sites and residencies because of the risk of electric shocks,

In the following years ground-fault circuit protection outlets were required to be installed within 6 feet of any sink whether a residence, a commercial property, a business, a hotel or any other structure including laundry areas as well.

THE BENEFITS OF GFCI OUTLETS

The GFCI requirements have contributed to the protection of many people and have minimized risks across the board.  In order for your home to be up to code, it is necessary to have these specialized outlets installed by a certified electrician.  Newly constructed homes have GFCI outlets installed in nearly every room of the construction.  If your home does not meet these requirements, then Gervais Electric can upgrade your home and bring it up to code.

If you are unsure as to whether or not your home or office meets the code requirements with regard to these specialized GFCI outlets, then be sure to contact our team of highly skilled and certified electricians to come out to your home or business and perform a simple inspection.  Our expert team can identify any outlets that do not meet with the code and provide upgrades as needed.

If you are in need of an upgrade or want to schedule an inspection to ensure that you are compliant with the necessary GFCI outlet requirements, then surely you have come to the right place.  Give a call out to our team and schedule your inspection or service appointment today.  Gervais Electric, Inc. looks forward to serving you and to providing you with the highest quality electrical parts and services this side of Franklin.  Don’t delay in ensuring the safety of your home and family.  Contact our team of professionals today!

Learn How to Save Energy and Reduce Electric Bills with These Simple Tips

Homeowners looking to save money on their electric bills can quickly learn that small changes make an obvious difference and can certainly help to save energy and reduce their electric bills.  Gervais Electric has some simple tips to share on how our valued clients can manage their utilities and save themselves a bit of money at the same time.

Energy consumption varies from home-to-home: from household tasks, outdoor necessities and a variety of seasonal needs.  Though attempting to initiate each of the suggestions and tips we offer here may be somewhat challenging to homeowners, you are sure to recognize some areas in your home that can adapt, improve and accommodate many of these practical improvements.

TIPS TO HELP SAVE ENERGY AND REDUCE YOUR ELECTRIC BILL

  • Control the Temperatures in Your Home – During the extreme summer or winter months, homeowners tend to rely heavily on their cooling and heating systems, which are by all means energy consuming appliances that provide the warm or cool we want or need. In addition to preventative maintenance for your heating and cooling systems, there are a number of simple steps you can take to reduce their workload, minimize your electric bill and save energy.

You can invest in a programmable thermostat and set it to control the varied temperatures in your home during the sleeping hours or when you are away.  In addition, you should run your ceiling fans that can easily regulate the temperatures in your rooms.  Though the fan does not provide the same cooling effect as your AC system, it will circulate the air and minimize the work your system has to do.  Finally, be sure to change your filters regularly.  When filters are dirty or clogged your system has to work harder to regulate the temperatures in your home thereby using more energy.

  • Unplug devices not being used – Even when a device or appliance is not in use they will still utilize standby energy and can contribute greatly to increased utility bills. With that said, when you are not utilizing your devices, be sure to unplug them in your efforts to reduce utility bills and save energy and money over time.
  • Minimize leaks in your home – In order to regulate the temperatures in your home, it is important to ensure that unwanted air is not finding its way into your home or out of it as well. You may want to have an energy audit of your home performed to evaluate your energy usage and identify problem areas for you.  Be sure to check out your home for cracks or leaks and fix the problems by weather stripping your windows, and doors as well as insulating your attic.
  • Turn off the lights – Invest in energy efficient light bulbs which can easily help to reduce your electric bill and save energy.  Though LED bulbs may cost more, they use much less electricity and, in the long run, you will benefit in both energy and utility savings.  Further, during the daytime, instead of turning on the lights, open up the blinds and shutters and let the natural light come in and brighten your home.
  • Invest in Energy Star appliances – These innovative appliances save you money on your electric bill by performing responsible energy consumption. Whether washing machines, dryers, refrigerators or hot water heaters, Energy Star appliances are a surefire way to minimize utility bills and save energy.
  • Don’t forget the outdoors – To control the amount of electricity that is used by your home’s exterior lighting, we strongly recommend you use motion sensors. These sensors can program your lights to go on and off as they are needed and will certainly help to keep your energy and utility costs down.

These simple but practical tips can contribute to reduced utility bills, save energy, and help to save you money as well.  For more information on how you can minimize energy usage reach out to Gervais Electric, Inc.  We look forward to serving you and to providing you with the highest quality electrical products and services this side of Franklin.

Important Winter Electrical Safety Facts and Tips

When the seasons and temperatures change, homeowners tend to go out and purchase all types of electrical equipment that they use during the cold weather months. When this occurs, the risk of electrical fires, and even electrocutions are increased. Statistics tell us that during the colder weather months, specifically the winter season, the highest percentage of home fires is attributed to the use of heating equipment and portable generators that are frequently used as a result of many power outages that occur. Gervais Electric, Inc. wants to provide our valued clients with some important winter electrical safety facts and tips to help product your home and family in the upcoming colder months.

Cold Weather Electrical Safety Tips for Homeowners

Space Heaters – For starters, never let drapes, curtains, blankets, clothing or other fabrics come in contact with your space heater and be sure to plug the space heaters directly into an outlet that is not worn, never using extension cords. Extension cords typically do not have enough power to effectively run a space heater and can, therefore, result in a fire. Further, be sure to place your heater in a location that is not highly trafficked and absolutely away from children and pets so as to avoid having it get knocked over. Be sure to never run the cord of your space heater under the carpeting or a throw rug since that can cause the cord to become overheated and potentially start a fire. Finally, never ever leave a space heater on and running when you leave the room or leave home. Make sure to unplug it whenever it is not in use.

Electric Blankets and Heating Pads – For starters, you should never use both an electric blanket and a heating pad at the same time. Your electric blanket should not be tucked under the mattress and there should be nothing atop the blanket when it is in use. The blanket should be flat at all times and should not be folded since this can easily cause the blanket’s heating element to burn out. It is important to follow all directions that accompany your electric blanket or your heating pad in your efforts to avoid damage of any type or a fire and always, always unplug them when not in use.

OTHER IMPORTANT WINTER ELECTRICAL SAFETY FACTS AND TIPS

Downed Power Lines – Often times in a fall or winter storm there will be downed power lines. This is by far one of the most dangerous scenarios that can occur. It is mandatory that whenever you see a downed power line that you assume that it is an active power line and move away from it immediately.

Safe Use of Those Portable Generators – If you experience a power outage during a storm a generator can supply you with enough power to keep your home up and running until your electricity is restored. A portable electrical generator can certainly help to weather the storm and allow you to keep your food safe in the refrigerator, provide you with hot water from your gas water heater, provide you with a functional gas furnace and allow you to have a few lights on as needed. Be sure to check the fuel level of your generator, and when filling it be sure not to overfill it.

Next, be sure to check the oil level and the filter along with the voltage selector to ensure that it properly matches the outlet you are connecting it to. Finally, place the generator on a flat surface, in a well-ventilated area outside of your home. When ready to power it up, be sure to use a heavy duty outdoor power cord, turn the circuit breaker off, the power switch on, and pull the cord. Allow the generator to warm up just a bit before you turn the circuit breaker back on again. As a safety note, be sure not to backfeed power to an existing outlet such as a dryer, range or other large appliance in your home. Doing such would create safety hazards for the linemen by sending power back outside of your home.

We hope you have found these winter electrical safety facts and tips useful and want to remind all our valued clients that when you find yourself in need of electrical repairs or services, be sure to reach out to our highly skilled team of certified electricians. Gervais Electric takes pride in our marketplace and industry presence and is steadfast in maintaining our superior customer service and customer satisfaction rating. For all your electrical needs, be sure to contact the pros at Gervais Electric, Inc. where our customers are always our #1 priority!

Why Homeowners Choose Gervais Electric

Electricity is a vital source of power for nearly everything in our homes and in our lives. It is important that the electricity in your home is fully functional and in working order and that all your electrical appliances are in tip-top shape as well. Oftentimes seeking out and finding the perfect company you can rely on to provide you with top-rated services, affordable prices and appropriate electrical solutions can be a bit of a challenge. Gervais Electric has come to be known as your ‘go to’ company for all your electrical needs, whether residential or commercial homes and buildings.

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE US

Our Years of Experience – Paul Gervais has been providing premier services to homeowners, commercial property owners, and industrial plants for over fifty years. Our team of highly skilled professionals has provided effective solutions to a wide range of electrical issues throughout the years and our overall knowledge and expertise in the field has allowed us to be recognized as a leader in the industry. When it comes to typical and specialized electrical services, our team knows the ins and outs of the trade to accomplish the task at hand, identify the source of the problem and provide an effective, satisfactory solution quickly and efficiently.

A Wide Range of Services – From the installation of generators of all sizes and control panels to electric car charges and all types of electrical repairs, Gervais Electric handles it all. Whether you need diagnostics, replacement wiring, indoor or outdoor lighting or electrical maintenance of any type we offer a full lineup of services.

Emergency Services – Our team of professionals recognize that there is no timeline involved when you experience electrical emergencies. We know that accidents and unforeseen incidents can occur at the most inopportune times. However, when you find yourself faced with electricity problems and challenges, we are the team for you. Our emergency services are available to customers 24/7. All you need to do is call and our experts will be there in a flash.

Our mission statement is quite simple. Our team of certified, licensed electricians is committed and dedicated to providing all our valued clients with the highest quality products and services in Middle Tennessee. We take tremendous pride in our state of the art, innovative equipment, our attractive turnaround times, our affordable prices, and of course, our highly reputable team of electrical experts who stand ready to meet your every need.
We would like to take this time to remind our valued clients that with summer coming to a close and the winter months around the corner, it may be an ideal time to have an electrical inspection performed in your home or business. Winter brings with it an awful lot of challenges and ensuring that your electrical system is up to date and fully functional will help to minimize any electrical problems you may experience in the months ahead.
If you are in search of residential, commercial, or industrial electricians to provide you with top of the line products and services, then surely you have come to the right place. Gervais Electric has been recognized time and time again for our commitment and dedication to performance excellence and we have earned ourselves a spot on the marketplace charts as one of the best all round electrical service providers in Middle Tennessee.
For more information about our products and services, reach out to one of our team members today. Gervais Electric – where our clients are always our number one priority! Don’t delay!

Why Grounded Outlets are Mandatory in Every Home or Structure

Identifying a grounded outlet is quite easy.  Outlets that have three holes, rather than just two, with two vertical holes and one located beneath the vertical holes are grounded outlets.  All modern homes are built and equipped with outlets that are properly grounded since they are required by safety standards for all homes, businesses and any other type of structures built in the mid 1960’s going forward.

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT GROUNDED OUTLETS

The two vertical slots of a grounded outlet represent what is referred to as the hot wires and the neutral wires.  Ground wires are tied to the neutral vertical slot of the outlet in case of any issues with the outlet, such as a short.  These ground wires allow electricity to then travel along the specific ground wire back into your home’s electrical panel.  The role of the ground wire is essential to protecting against electric shocks and to avoiding fires and other hazards in the home.

Ungrounded outlets are incredibly dangerous and can pose serious risks to not only your home but your family as well.  They can increase the overall risk of both property and personal damages and injuries and present with a variety of hazards including:

  • Health hazards – Ungrounded outlets can present with a serious risk of shock to persons who are operating electronics or appliances that are directly plugged into them.
  • Electrical fire hazards – If an outlet is not grounded, sparks could occur as well as arcing and electrical charges that can ultimately result in fires along the walls where the outlets are installed or to nearby furniture, fabrics and other fixtures.
  • Home and property loss – When ungrounded outlets are present, equipment, electronics and appliances plugged into these ungrounded outlets can short out resulting in damaged or worthless items.
  • Unorganized, messy wires – In many older homes often times there is a combination of ungrounded and grounded outlets present. However old the home may be, this combination is indicative of potential serious electrical problems that can ultimately result in hazards, fires and multiple losses and more often that not present with a completely, unorganized messy array of electrical wires.

If you have noticed ungrounded outlets in your home or business, then surely you have come to the right place.  Gervais Electric has, not only highly skilled and certified electricians and technicians to handle your every electrical problem, but our team possesses years and years of experience and know-how to handle everything electrical.  Our skilled technicians are committed to providing all our valued clients with top of the line electrical services that will simply not be matched by any of our competitors.

If you are in need of newly installed grounded outlets, replacement of ungrounded outlets, or any other type of electrical services or repairs, then we are the team for you.  Simply give a shout out to one of our staff members today to schedule your service or repair appointment.  Our technicians will inspect and analyze the wiring and outlets in your home and identify the presence of any ungrounded outlets.  Once identified, we will provide effective solutions ensuring that any such problems have been completely eliminated and ensure that your home and family are safe from potential electrical shocks, fires and personal injuries.

If you are concerned about ungrounded outlets in your home, or are in need of newly installed grounded outlets, then don’t delay.  Reach out to Gervais Electric’s dedicated team of certified electricians and technicians today.  We look forward to providing you with the highest quality electrical services all year round, whether winter, spring, summer or fall.

Common Electrical Hazards to Be Aware of In Your Home

Electricity is found and used in every home.  Since people today rely heavily on electricity, it is critical that our valued clients learn all the important facts about electricity, how to handle it safely and the many electrical hazards that exist right in our own homes.

Sadly, electrical shocks and home fires are not as rare or uncommon as they should be. Regardless of the occurrence of both, there are certainly ways in which they can be prevented.  When you are aware of and give focus to the various electrical hazards that can occur surely you can avoid them altogether and keep both your home and your family safe.   Here are a few of the most common electrical hazards that are present in every home.

  • Water and Electricity Don’t Mix – We are all aware that water and electricity simply do not mix. Even as young children, we learn this important fact.  However, many people will still reach for their hair dryer, curling iron, or shaver when their hands are wet, and the consequences could be extreme.  It is important that you instruct all your children and bear in mind yourself that you should never touch any type of appliance or any electrical outlets in your home when your hands are wet.  Further, never ever attempt to unplug an appliance by reaching into the water to do so.   Be sure to use caution whenever you are using an appliance or an outlet near to water.  Keep all cords away from pools, bathtubs, sinks or other sources of water in and at your home.
  • Noticeably Damaged Wires and Cords – Damaged, frayed, corroded, blackened or melted cords should never be used in your home. If cords are frayed exposing the wires on the inside, and you proceed to use them you may very well cause an electrical fire, a burn or an electric shock. Never try to fix damaged wires or cords yourself, but rather replace them altogether or if need be hiring an electrician to provide the guidance and help needed.
  • surge protectors
    Don’t Overuse Extension Cords
    – Extension cords can indeed be quite useful and beneficial. However, they should not be used for extended periods of time. They are designed to provide electrical support temporarily and should always be unplugged when not being used. It is important to understand the dangers of extension cords and never try running them through your home’s ceilings or walls since doing so can cause overheating and even an electrical fire. Statistics tell us that there are over 3000 homes that catch fire each year as a result of improper and unsafe use of extension cords. We do not want our clients to fall within those statistical records. If you find that you are frequently using extension cords, then we highly recommend you have additional electrical outlets installed to help prevent this type of electrical hazard in your home.
  • Children and Pets Need to be Protected – Most electrical outlets in homes are located near to the floor. This is beneficial in many ways but can be quite harmful to children and pets. There are a couple of simple safety measures you can practice ensuring the safety of all your children and pets. Using plastic covers on all your outlets keeps little ones from sticking their fingers, toys or anything else into the outlets. Also, be sure to hide away cords so that children cannot be strangled by them and pets will not use them as a favorite chewing toy.

If you practice these simple, practical and useful tips you can certainly safeguard and protect your home and family from electrical hazards that can cause grave harm, damage and in some cases even death. For more information about electrical safety measures, or if you need any electrical services or repairs, be sure to reach out to the professionals here at Gervais Electric. We look forward to our every opportunity to serve you and send along wishes for a safe and enjoyable summer!

 

Simple Cost-Cutting Tips for Electricity Usage

These simple cost-cutting tips for electricity usage can help save homeowners money each month!

If you are like most homeowners, you are constantly on the lookout for ways to save money. Implementing some or all these cost-cutting tips for electricity can help to accomplish this important goal. When you are able to minimize the amount of electricity you’re using daily, weekly, and monthly, you are taking important steps in reducing monthly electricity costs and increasing your energy savings at the same time.

Reducing the amount of electricity you use in your living space not only will shrink your electric bill but will also help contribute to a healthier environment overall. There are several possible ways in which you can reduce your electricity usage and the amount of energy used in your home. If you are looking to reduce energy consumption in your home, then try these simple but effective cost-cutting tips for electricity.

  • Use cold water when you are washing loads of laundry rather than the typical hot water and see the difference in your monthly bill;
  • When possible, hang your clothes to dry instead of using a dryer since your electric dryer sucks up a whole lot of energy and money;
  • Unplug any items that are not being used throughout your living space, especially electronics. Items not in use, but are still plugged in, use a good amount of electricity and energy still;
  • Install LED light bulbs anywhere possible in your home and try turning off the lights for an extra two hours per day and see how much money you will save;
  • Turn off any ceiling lights you may have and start utilizing table lamps with lower wattage, even track lighting in your work-at-home area, or under-cabinet lights in your kitchen area;
  • Do not use the heat/dry setting when running your dishwasher; it uses a great deal of energy;
  • Set your refrigerator and freezer temperatures to an ideal lower setting. Try setting the refrigerator at or below 40° F (4° C) and your freezer at 0° F (-18° C);
  • Set your computers to flip over to standby mode whenever they are not in use;
  • If you are still using an old-fashioned desktop computer, switch over to a laptop now;
  • Be sure to pull phone and electronic chargers from the outlets once devices are fully charged;
  • Always turn off the lights when leaving a room;
  • Be sure to adjust the settings on your air conditioner so that it does not run at full force when you are away from home; and
  • Reduce the amount of heat that is generated in your kitchen, especially in the summertime.

In addition to the above practical cost-cutting tips, you can also contact your local electric company and find out more information about “time of use programs.” These programs charge different rates for peak hours in comparison to off hours. If you get in the habit of using most of the electricity in your home during what is referred to as the ‘off hours’ you can, over time, save a significant amount of monies.

At Gervais Electric, Inc. our clients are our #1 priority which is why we wanted to share these simple yet important cost-cutting tips for electricity. Be sure to reach out to our highly skilled and experienced team of electricians for all your electrical needs. We look forward to serving you with the highest quality electrical products, repairs, and services in Middle Tennessee whether winter, spring, summer or fall.

HVAC electrical problems you may experience this summer

As we all know, home heating and air conditioning systems run on electricity, and a good deal of it. From time-to-time you may find yourself faced with HVAC electrical issues that need electrical repairs. It is never wise to attempt to repair your own air conditioning system when it encounters problems of any type, especially electrical problems. Instead, rely upon Gervais Electric, Inc. and our highly skilled and certified team of electricians.

Our certified and trained electricians are equipped to handle all your electrical repairs and needs, including all those electrical issues you may experience with your HVAC system. There are three primary HVAC electrical issues you can encounter with your air conditioning system this summer.

Wiring Issues

The many wires that are part of the overall makeup of your air conditioning system tend to corrode or fray over time and particularly those that are exposed to many of the outdoor elements. The fraying and corrosion of these damaged wires will affect the overall proper delivery of electricity and will continue to disrupt the flow of electricity until they are properly replaced by a professional. Again, we highly suggest you do not attempt to replace the wiring in your AC system on your own, but rather put your trust in our reliable team of electricians.

Overloaded Circuit Breakers

Electrical Panel

Every home’s air conditioning system should have its own circuit breaker in your electrical panel because of the excessive amount of power it continually draws. If your home’s circuit breaker keeps tripping time and time again, especially during the sweltering summer months, you need to take steps to have it inspected by a professional electrician. A professional will typically find the source of the problem to be one of two things. More times than not they find that the problem stems from an air conditioning system that is drawing too much power thus tripping the circuit breaker, or secondly, the breaker itself may be faulty. Whatever the source of your HVAC electrical problem, rest assure our team of professionals will identify it and provide you with fast and effective solutions to the problem to limit the amount of disruption to your AC system this summer.

Capacitors are key components of any air conditioning system. They are designed to assist the various motors in your AC system to start up when needed and to run consistently. With that said, every air conditioning system has two different types of capacitors – a start capacitor and a run capacitor. Over time, these capacitors may become damaged and cause malfunction to your AC system primarily due to age and lifespan issues. When the capacitors malfunction, they directly affect the motors within your AC system and create a serious HVAC electrical problem. As with the above, never attempt to resolve these problems on your own, but rather trust our professionals to get the job done and get your air conditioning system up and running again to handle all the summer heat.

Summer is certainly a favorite time of year for so many people. From backyard barbecues and picnics, and family gatherings, to vacation destinations and a variety of summer festivals and activities, the time spent in the summer is varied. However, when your air conditioning system is not working properly, or not working at all, it can certainly put a strain on all that summer comfort and fun. If you find yourself in need of HVAC electrical repairs or services or need any other type of electrical services, then surely you have come to the right place. Gervais Electric, Inc. takes pride in providing all our valued clients with the highest quality electrical products and services this side of Tennessee. With summer now upon us, we send along wishes for a safe and comfortable summer season and a safe and happy Fourth of July to all our valued customers!

Why a Portable Generator is a Good Investment

As homeowners we are always looking to protect one of the biggest investments we will ever make in a lifetime – our home. Protecting your home and your loved ones with a portable generator is a great idea and a good investment for every homeowner. With fluctuating weather conditions from season to season, and sometimes unpredictable situations, having a generator on hand can be a great convenience for emergency power needs.

Storms and unsuspecting weather can cause power outages at the most inopportune moments. A portable generator is the ideal solution for unexpected storms and weather conditions. If your area suffers from recurring power outages, you may also consider a permanent backup power source such as an installed propane generator. Although they do not typically restore complete, full power to your home, the average portable generator will certainly afford you the resources needed to utilize and enjoy the appliances and amenities in your home during the most powerful storms.

Why consider a portable generator

Standby Generator

Many people who are unfamiliar with generators are often afraid to even consider such an investment because there is a good deal of inaccurate data out there. There is somewhat of a consensus that portable generators are an expensive investment and one that can be costly to maintain and/or repair. However, this cannot be further from the truth. Depending upon the size, brand and model you are looking into purchasing, generators can cost anywhere from a mere $250 on up depending on the brand and the amount of power it produces. The overall cost of a generator is quite minimal when you compare it to the maximum amount of benefits it will provide you with during a storm or other emergency. Whether there is snow on the ground, a severe thunder and lightning storm or even a pesky critter that eats through the power lines, a state-of-the-art portable generator may be the ideal, effective solution for you.

Power when you need it

Having power during a storm is beneficial even if you cannot power up your entire home. Portable generators are not only incredibly cost-effective, but they can power up all your essentials in your home during the heartiest storms such as refrigerators, televisions, hair dryers, and microwaves. They can provide you with hot water to bathe in, heat or air conditioning to keep you comfortable during the storm and can certainly provide you with lighting you need when the darkness of an unsuspecting storm hits home. Why would you want to be too cold or too warm during a storm, or must be caught in the dark without hot water, when all these essentials could be at your fingertips? Gervais Electric can help you with a solution to your backup power needs and make sure your system is properly routed for easy use of a generator on the most important systems in your home.

Installation of a generator

Weather can certainly be unpredictable no matter where you live, and if you do not have a portable generator on hand, you may find yourself in the dark and without important essentials for a long period of time. If you don’t already own a portable generator then perhaps it’s time you start thinking about purchasing one. You truly have no way of knowing when the next disruptive storm will hit and you will find yourself, for long lengths of time, without the essentials you and your family need.

For more information about portable generators or to schedule electrical services or repairs for your home, be sure to reach out to the professional electricians here at Gervais Electric, Inc. Fill out the form on this page or give us a call at (615) 973-1436.