New Online Training Course Helps Construction Professionals Get Smart Standby Generators

WASHINGTON (November 9, 2010) — Through a new online training course offered by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC), construction professionals can become experts on standby generators that help protect homeowners during power outages.

The course, "Specifying Propane Standby Generators," covers the types of generators, performance considerations, and fuel options, and prepares construction professionals to answer homeowners' questions about how to stay safe after the power goes out. Power outages can affect the refrigeration of food and medication, the operation of sump pumps and home security systems, and the availability of fresh well water.

"Construction professionals can help homeowners proactively protect their homes during power outages by specifying a standby generator," said Tracy Burleson, director of residential programs for PERC. "The new online course takes a comprehensive approach to make sure that construction professionals navigate successfully through the selection process."

As outlined in the course, the proper sizing and selection of a standby generator is often based on the wattage output, the cost, and the decibel rating. The type of fuel used to power the generator, which includes gasoline, diesel, and propane, is also an important consideration. For example, during a five-day outage, a standby generator would require approximately 70 gallons of gasoline, presenting storage and safety issues. Diesel is susceptible to oxidation and condensation, posing problems with long-term storage of fuel. Propane, which does not oxidize or lose vitality over time, offers a low-maintenance option that is safe and reliable.

To learn more, visit buildwithpropane.com and enroll in the "Specifying Propane Standby Generators" course, which is approved by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA).