New Winter Weather Preparation Guide to Help Families Prepare for Severe Weather and Potential Power Outages
Waukesha, Wisconsin, November 10th / PRNewswire / -- Generac Holdings Inc (New York Stock Exchange ticker: GNRC) is a global leader in energy technology solutions and the design, manufacturing, and supply of other power products. The company is encouraging homeowners to prepare for unpredictable winter weather and potential power outages caused by snowfall, icing, strong winds, and extreme cold. The company's newly released "2026 Winter Weather Preparation Guide" answers practical questions about how to prepare for winter power outages before severe weather arrives, as well as how to maintain backup power equipment before harsh weather hits.
This winter, a potentially record-breaking El Niño phenomenon could bring varying precipitation patterns and rapidly changing weather conditions across the United States. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), El Niño is continuing to strengthen, and it is expected to reach a strong to very strong intensity between January and March 2027, with an 83% probability of reaching historic levels between October and December.
Generac, President of Home Power Generation Business, Kyle Raabe stated: "Winter weather changes rapidly, and power outages can make it more difficult for families to maintain safety, warmth, and communication. Unlike summer storms, the effects of severe winter weather can continue to worsen long after the storm has passed, especially when prolonged power outages cause homes to lose heating in dangerous low temperatures. Homeowners cannot control the weather forecast, but they can take practical steps now to understand their risks, prepare their homes, and establish backup power plans before severe weather arrives."
The winter risks faced vary from region to region.
Whether the homeowner lives along the Pacific coast or thousands of miles away from it, El Niño can affect the local winter weather.
- Central and Western Regions, as well as the Northeast Region:Even if the overall temperature is milder, snowfall, icing, strong winds, and rapid temperature fluctuations can still put pressure on trees and power lines.
- South and along the Gulf of Mexico coast:Intense rainfall, floods, freezing rain, as well as brief periods of snowfall or icing, can disrupt communities that are not accustomed to winter weather.
- Western and mountainous states:Intense rainfall, snowfall in mountainous areas, strong winds, and floods may put additional strain on power infrastructure, especially in rural regions.
How to Prepare Your Home for Winter Power Outages
- Identify nearby heating centers, including their opening hours and whether they allow pets.
- Develop a family communication plan and set main and alternative meeting locations.
- Install and regularly test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Prepare an emergency kit, which should include food, water, medicines, first-aid supplies, lighting equipment, and other necessities.
- Charge mobile phones and necessary electronic devices, and prepare alternative plans for refrigerated medications or medical equipment that require power.
- Prepare your home for a power outage, including protecting pipes, checking the fuel level of generators, and considering the most suitable backup power supply options for your family.
How to Prepare a Home Standby Generator for Winter
- Clear debris and obstacles around the crew member.
- Check for any signs of leakage at the connection between the fuel and engine oil.
- Inspect the fuel system.
- Check the battery, air filter, spark plugs, and oil level.
For a more detailed winter preparedness checklist, as well as answers to common questions regarding power outages, backup power sources, and generator maintenance, please refer to the "2026 Winter Weather Preparedness Guide." Homeowners can also contact their local Generac dealers to learn about backup power solutions.
About Generac
Generac is a comprehensive energy solutions company dedicated to helping people use energy in their own way. Founded in 1959, it is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and supply of various energy technology solutions. The company provides power generation equipment, energy storage systems, energy management equipment and solutions, as well as other electrical products and services for residential, commercial, data center, telecommunications, rental, and industrial markets. Generac was among the first to introduce affordable standby generators and later pioneered the category of automatic home standby generators. With its wide range of energy technology products for both homes and businesses, the company supports its mission of "powering a smarter world" and leads the way towards more resilient, efficient, and innovative energy solutions.
Contact Information: [ email protected ]
