When the power goes out, you have many questions. How long is the power going to be out? How are we going to stay cool or warm? What happens to the food in my fridge? How can I feed my family? These and many other questions flit through your mind.
The good news is that gas works during a power outage. While the power goes out, the gas lines continue pumping gas to the appliances as needed. Some of your appliances may still function during a power outage. Here’s everything you need to know about your gas appliances during a power outage:
What Appliances Can Go Down During a Power Outage?
When the power goes out, you look around your home and wonder if anything works. Some of your gas appliances may still work even when the power is out. This is because gas lines aren’t affected by a power outage, and not all of your appliances require electricity to work.
While your oven won’t work because it requires electricity to set and maintain a cooking temperature, your stovetops should work, although you may need to relight the pilot light. Most new gas fireplaces will work during a power outage in the exact same way they always do. In some cases, your water heater may continue to work. If you have a backup generator, it will work and provide your home with electricity. Your refrigerator, washer and dryer, and dishwasher won’t work.
Are Gas Appliances Affected By a Power Outage?
Most gas appliances, except backup generators, are affected by a power outage to some extent. This is because most appliances rely on both gas and electricity to function properly. For example, a gas furnace uses gas to heat the air, but it requires electricity to turn on and off as the temperature in your home fluctuates and to run the fans that push warmed air through your home. You can almost always continue to use a gas fireplace for warmth and a stovetop for meals.
Benefits of Gas Backup Generators
A gas backup generator is a great option for most homes. The first time a storm knocks out your power for a couple of days, you’re going to be glad that you have one. Some of the benefits of a gas generator include:
- Gas works during a power outage. Also, gas is reliable and has fewer outages than electricity.
- Gas generators burn cleaner fuel than other types of generators.
- They are more cost-effective than other fuel types.
When the power goes out, you won’t regret buying a gas backup generator.
Gas Appliances During a Power Outage
During a power outage, you’ll be glad that you have gas appliances, especially if you have a backup generator. Gas will continue to flow into your lines even with the power out. This allows you to use your gas fireplace and firewood to build a fire to keep warm if the temperatures dip. You can use your stovetop to fix meals for your family and heat baby bottles as needed. With gas appliances, the next power outage can feel no more inconvenient than a camping trip.
Gas Installation for Safety
If you have gas appliances in your home, you’re in a practical position during a power outage. Unlike your friends and neighbors who rely solely on electricity, you can still cook for your family and run a generator to meet your electrical needs. A natural gas fireplace will provide warmth in the cooler months.
Gas Service Center can help you explore these practical benefits and handle the installation for you. Contact us today.
Image Credit: aslysun / Shutterstock