Power Outage Preparedness: Do You Need a Generator for Utah Winter Storms?

Northern Utah winters bring beautiful snow, but also ice storms, high winds, and power outages. In recent years, we've seen major outages lasting hours or even days. When temperatures are below freezing and your heat depends on electricity, a generator isn't a luxury—it's a critical safety device. Here's everything you need to know about generator options for Utah homes.

Understanding Utah's Power Outage Risk

Let's look at the reality of power outages in Northern Utah:

Common causes of winter outages:

Ice storms weighing down power lines
High winds (especially in canyons and foothills)
Snow-loaded trees falling on lines
Vehicle accidents taking out power poles
Equipment failures in extreme cold
Transformer failures from temperature cycling

Recent outage history:

December 2022: Ice storm left 60,000+ Wasatch Front customers without power
January 2021: Wind storms caused multi-day outages in Davis County
February 2020: Heavy snow brought down lines in Weber County
Winter 2019: Multiple storms caused rolling outages across the region

Duration matters:

Under 4 hours: Uncomfortable but manageable for most homes
4-12 hours: Food safety concerns, heating issues, medical device risks
12-24 hours: Critical heating needs, frozen pipe risk, significant disruption
Over 24 hours: Emergency situation requiring alternative housing or backup power

Who needs a generator most:

Homes with electric heat (furnace blowers, heat pumps)
Families with medical equipment requiring power
Homes with well water systems
Rural areas where restoration takes longer
Homes with sump pumps preventing flooding
Anyone who's been without power 12+ hours in winter

Portable Generators: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Portable generators are the entry-level backup power solution. They're affordable and versatile, but come with significant limitations.

How portable generators work:

Gas-powered engine generates electricity
Produces 3,000-10,000 watts typically
You plug extension cords or a transfer switch connects it
Manual start (pull-cord or electric start models)
Requires refueling every 8-12 hours

Real costs (equipment + installation):

Entry-level 3,500W portable: $400-600 (equipment only)
Mid-range 5,000-7,000W: $800-1,500 (equipment only)
Premium 9,000-12,000W: $1,500-3,000 (equipment only)
Transfer switch installation: $800-1,500 (required for safe connection)
Total investment: $1,200-4,500

What can you power with portable generators:

3,500W generator (entry-level):

Furnace blower (600W)
Refrigerator (700W)
Several LED lights (60W)
Phone chargers (25W)
WiFi router (20W)
Can't run: Water heater, electric stove, dryer, A/C, multiple major appliances

7,000W generator (mid-range):

Everything above, plus:
Microwave (1,000W)
Coffee maker (1,000W)
TV and computer (300W)
More lights and outlets
Can't run: Whole-house loads, simultaneous heavy appliances

Advantages of portable generators:

Lower upfront cost
Can take camping, to job sites, or use elsewhere
Easier to service and maintain
No permanent installation
Can upgrade or replace easily

Disadvantages (these are significant):

Must be outside: Carbon monoxide kills—generators must be 20+ feet from house
Manual operation: You must physically set up, start, refuel, and monitor
Weather exposure: Operating a generator in a blizzard at 2 AM is miserable
Fuel storage: You need gasoline on hand (stabilizer required, 6-month shelf life)
Noise: 65-75 decibels—neighbors will know you have it
Limited runtime: Refueling every 8-12 hours
No automatic start: Power goes out at 3 AM, you wake up cold
Extension cord risks: If not using transfer switch, extension cords create hazards

The transfer switch requirement:

Never backfeed power into your panel by plugging a generator into an outlet. This is illegal, dangerous, and can kill utility workers. You need a transfer switch:

Manual transfer switch ($800-1,500 installed):

Electrician installs a subpanel with switch
During outage, you switch selected circuits to generator power
Physically disconnects house from grid (safe)
You choose which circuits get generator power (usually 6-10 circuits)

The circuit selection reality: You can't power everything. You choose critical circuits:

Furnace
Refrigerator/freezer
Some lights and outlets
Well pump (if applicable)
Sump pump (if applicable)
Medical equipment

Fuel storage considerations:

Gasoline storage is actually a big deal:

Store in approved containers (5-gallon gas cans)
Add fuel stabilizer (gasoline degrades in 3-6 months)
Keep minimum of 20 gallons on hand for multi-day outages
7,000W generator uses ~0.75 gallons/hour at 50% load
Store away from house, water heaters, and ignition sources
Utah fire code limits residential gasoline storage to 25 gallons

True cost of portable generator ownership:

Generator: $1,500 (mid-range)
Transfer switch installation: $1,200
Gas cans and stabilizer: $100
Annual fuel stabilizer replacement: $30
Maintenance (oil, filters, spark plugs): $100/year
First year: $2,900
Annual ongoing: $130

Standby Generators: The Premium Solution

Standby generators are permanently installed, automatically starting when power fails. They're expensive, but provide true peace of mind.

How standby generators work:

Permanently installed next to your home
Runs on natural gas or propane (no refueling)
Automatic transfer switch detects outage and starts generator (within 30 seconds)
Can power whole house or selected circuits
Runs indefinitely as long as gas supply continues
Weekly self-test to ensure readiness

Real costs (installed):

10-14kW system (partial house): $5,000-8,000
16-20kW system (most of house): $7,000-11,000
22-26kW system (whole house): $9,000-15,000
Natural gas line extension (if needed): $1,500-3,000
Propane tank and line (if no natural gas): $2,000-4,000
Electrical permit and inspection: $200-500
Total investment: $7,000-20,000

What determines the cost:

Generator size (kW capacity)
Distance from gas line
Electrical panel complexity
Concrete pad requirements
Local permit fees
Site preparation needs

Advantages of standby generators:

Automatic operation: Power fails, generator starts—no action needed
Whole-house capability: Size appropriate to run everything
No refueling: Connected to natural gas or large propane tank
Quiet operation: 55-65 decibels (quieter than portable)
Weather-protected: Enclosed housing handles Utah winters
Unlimited runtime: Runs as long as outage lasts
Increases home value: Permanent improvement

Disadvantages:

High upfront cost: $7,000-20,000 is substantial
Professional installation only: Not a DIY project
Permitting required: Setback requirements, inspections
Annual maintenance: $200-300 for service (oil change, inspection)
Natural gas dependency: If gas service fails, generator won't run (rare)

Sizing a standby generator correctly:

This requires a professional load calculation, but here's the general guidance:

10-14kW (smaller homes):

Powers essential circuits: furnace, fridge, lights, outlets
Won't run central A/C, electric water heater, or dryer simultaneously
Good for 1,500-2,500 sq ft homes with gas appliances
Cost: $5,000-8,000 installed

16-20kW (most Utah homes):

Powers most of house: all essentials plus comforts
Can run central A/C OR electric dryer, not simultaneously
Good for 2,000-4,000 sq ft homes
Most popular size for Utah families
Cost: $7,000-11,000 installed

22-26kW (whole house):

Powers everything including A/C, dryer, electric range
No load management needed
Good for 3,500+ sq ft homes or homes with many electric appliances
Cost: $9,000-15,000 installed

Load management systems:

Modern standby systems include smart load management:

System monitors which appliances are running
Prevents overload by temporarily shedding non-critical loads
Means you can install a smaller generator (saves $2,000-4,000)
Example: If dryer starts while A/C is running, system temporarily turns off A/C

Natural Gas vs. Propane: Fuel Considerations

Your fuel choice affects cost, runtime, and convenience.

Natural gas (preferred in urban areas):

Advantages:

Unlimited fuel supply during outages
No refueling ever
Lower operating cost ($1.50-2.00/hour)
Already connected to most Utah homes
Clean-burning

Disadvantages:

Not available in rural areas
If gas service fails (rare), generator won't run
May need larger gas line installed ($1,500-3,000)
Lower energy density (slightly larger generator needed)

Propane (preferred in rural areas):

Advantages:

Available anywhere
Independent of utility (if your gas service is out, propane still works)
Higher energy density (more efficient)
Can share tank with home heating

Disadvantages:

Limited fuel supply (typical 500-gallon tank)
Propane tank rental or purchase ($1,500-3,000)
Refilling logistics during extended outages
Higher operating cost ($2.50-3.50/hour)
Cold weather reduces propane pressure (can affect large loads)

Runtime on propane:

500-gallon tank (400 usable gallons) at 50% generator load:

10kW generator: ~120 hours (5 days)
16kW generator: ~80 hours (3.3 days)
22kW generator: ~60 hours (2.5 days)

Most propane-powered standby installations use 500-1,000 gallon tanks.

Installation Requirements and Timelines

Generator installation isn't quick or simple. Here's what's involved:

Site requirements:

Minimum setbacks from house, property lines, windows (varies by jurisdiction)
Typical: 5 feet from house, 5 feet from property line
Level concrete pad or gravel base
Clearance for exhaust and ventilation
Access for maintenance and fuel delivery (propane)

Electrical work:

Automatic transfer switch installation (4-8 hours)
Load center modifications
Generator connection and testing
Permit and inspection

Gas work:

Natural gas line extension from meter
Gas pressure testing and inspection
Propane tank installation and connection
Gas permit and inspection

Typical timeline:

Consultation and sizing: 1 week
Permit approval: 2-4 weeks
Equipment ordering: 2-6 weeks (depending on model)
Installation: 1-2 days
Inspection and startup: 1 week
Total: 6-12 weeks from decision to operation

The seasonal reality:

Generator demand spikes after major outages. After the December 2022 ice storm, we had a 3-month backlog for generator installations.

Best time to install: Late summer/early fall

Beat the winter rush
Better weather for installation
Parts readily available
Ready before winter storms hit

Worst time: After a major outage

Everyone wants one simultaneously
Extended wait times
Parts shortages
Premium pricing

Critical Circuits: What Should Your Generator Power?

Whether portable or standby, you need to prioritize what gets backup power.

Tier 1 - Critical (life safety):

Furnace/heating system: Prevents freezing, maintains life safety
Medical equipment: CPAP, oxygen concentrators, etc.
Well pump: If you have well water
Sump pump: Prevents basement flooding

Tier 2 - Important (food and comfort):

Refrigerator and freezer: Prevents food loss
Kitchen outlets: For cooking (microwave, coffee maker)
Lighting: At least one light in each major area
Phone chargers and WiFi: Communication and information

Tier 3 - Comfort (nice to have):

TV and entertainment: Morale during extended outages
Computer/office: For work-from-home
Garage door opener: Vehicle access
Additional outlets: General convenience

Tier 4 - Optional (use carefully):

Electric water heater: Huge load (4,500W), not critical short-term
Central A/C: Huge load, usually not needed in winter
Electric dryer: Huge load (5,000W), not essential
Electric range: Huge load, use microwave instead

Generator sizing math:

Add up the running wattage of everything you want to power simultaneously. Then add 20% for surge capacity (motors and compressors draw 2-3x their running wattage when starting).

Example for 7,000W portable generator:

Furnace: 600W running (1,800W starting)
Refrigerator: 700W running (2,100W starting)
Freezer: 500W running (1,500W starting)
Lights (10 LEDs): 100W
TV and WiFi: 150W
Phone chargers: 50W
Total running: 2,100W
Largest starting surge: 2,100W (fridge or freezer)
Peak demand: 4,200W
Available capacity: 7,000W
Margin: 2,800W (40% buffer)

This is properly sized. You can't run everything, but you have the essentials covered.

Maintenance and Operating Costs

Generators require maintenance. Neglect them, and they fail when you need them most.

Portable generator annual maintenance:

Oil change (every 50-100 hours or annually): $30
Air filter replacement: $15
Spark plug replacement: $10
Fuel stabilizer (if stored with fuel): $20
Load testing: DIY
Annual cost: ~$75
Plus your time: 2-3 hours

Standby generator annual maintenance:

Professional service (oil, filters, battery, inspection): $200-300
Weekly self-tests (automatic): $0
Battery replacement (every 3-5 years): $100
Annual cost: $250-350

Critical: Generators that sit unused for years often fail during outages. Run portable generators under load quarterly. Standby generators self-test weekly automatically.

Alternatives and Combinations

Generators aren't the only backup power option.

Battery backup systems (like Tesla Powerwall):

Advantages:

Instant switchover (no 30-second delay)
Silent operation
No emissions
Can work with solar
Daily use for peak shaving

Disadvantages:

Expensive ($12,000-20,000 installed)
Limited capacity (13.5 kWh = 12-24 hours depending on usage)
Won't run high-load appliances long
Can't recharge during extended outages (unless paired with solar)

Best for: Daily energy management with backup capability, not extended outages

Hybrid approach (portable + key circuits):

Some homeowners install a transfer switch for critical circuits, then add a portable generator as needed:

Transfer switch: $1,200 installed
Critical circuits (furnace, fridge, lights): Switched
Portable generator: $1,500
Total: $2,700

You get automatic disconnection safety with flexibility to upgrade to standby later.

Inverter generators (premium portables):

Quieter, cleaner power, more efficient:

3,000W inverter: $1,000-1,500
7,000W inverter: $2,500-4,000
Better power quality (safe for electronics)
50% quieter operation
30% better fuel efficiency

Real Utah Homeowner Scenarios

Let's look at actual situations we've helped with:

Scenario 1: Young family in Layton (1,800 sq ft)

Gas furnace, electric blower
Fridge and freezer
Budget: $3,000
Solution: 7,000W portable + manual transfer switch
Powers furnace, kitchen, lights
Cost: $2,800 installed
Satisfied: Can handle 2-3 day outages comfortably

Scenario 2: Retired couple in Ogden (2,400 sq ft)

CPAP machines (both)
Electric heat pump system
Budget: $10,000
Solution: 16kW natural gas standby
Whole-house power
Cost: $9,200 installed
Satisfied: Total peace of mind, automatic operation

Scenario 3: Rural property in Weber County (3,200 sq ft)

Well water system
Propane heating
Frequent outages (2-3 per winter)
Solution: 20kW propane standby with 500-gallon tank
Whole-house power, independent fuel source
Cost: $13,800 installed
Satisfied: No more hauling water, always has heat

Scenario 4: Growing family in Farmington (2,000 sq ft)

Limited budget now
Want to expand later
Solution: Transfer switch + inlet for future generator
Can use borrowed/rented generator now
Upgrade to standby when budget allows
Cost: $1,500 installed
Satisfied: Flexibility and safety now, expansion path later

Making the Decision: Do You Need a Generator?

Ask yourself these questions:

Have you lost power for 6+ hours in the last 3 years?
- Yes = Generator worth considering
- Multiple times = Generator strongly recommended
Do you have electric heat or heat pump?
- Yes = Generator moves from "nice" to "necessary"
Does anyone have medical equipment requiring power?
- Yes = Generator is critical, not optional
Do you have well water?
- Yes = Generator needed (no power = no water)
What's your cold-weather backup plan?
- None = Generator needed
- Stay with family/hotel = Maybe skip generator
- Fireplace + camping stove = Portable generator probably sufficient
What's your budget?
- Under $3,000 = Portable + transfer switch
- $5,000-8,000 = Smaller standby system
- $8,000-15,000 = Properly sized standby system
- Over $15,000 = Premium whole-house system
How important is convenience?
- Very important = Standby system
- Can handle manual operation = Portable acceptable

Power Outage Preparedness: Do You Need a Generator for Utah Winter Storms?

Power Outage Preparedness: Do You Need a Generator for Utah Winter Storms?

Understanding Utah's Power Outage Risk

Portable Generators: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Standby Generators: The Premium Solution

Natural Gas vs. Propane: Fuel Considerations

Installation Requirements and Timelines

Critical Circuits: What Should Your Generator Power?

Maintenance and Operating Costs

Alternatives and Combinations

Real Utah Homeowner Scenarios

Making the Decision: Do You Need a Generator?

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