Tropical Storm Isaias is gaining strength in the Gulf, and forecasters expect it to become a hurricane before it reaches the U.S. Gulf Coast. Here in Ruston, we’re a long way from the coast, and the worst of a storm like this rarely makes it this far north. Still, a big system can send gusty winds and steady rain our way, and it doesn’t take much to bring down a few pine limbs and a power line. That’s why a storm in the forecast tends to get homeowners thinking about their generator. Is it fueled up? Will it start? And if there isn’t one, is it time to get one?
The good news is you still have a few days to prepare. This is enough time to make sure the generator you own will start when you need it, or to explore other options if you don’t yet own one.
Your Quick Storm Prep Checklist
Short on time? Start here. Each item is covered in more detail below.
☐ Top off propane or pick up fresh fuel for a portable generator
☐ List the appliances and devices your household can’t go without
☐ Run your generator for a test before the weather turns
☐ Check that the transfer switch is set to automatic
☐ Clear leaves, pine straw, and loose items from around the unit
☐ Review portable generator safety with everyone in the home
☐ Save Southern Air’s number, (318) 310-1740, in your phone
A Simple Countdown for Generator Owners
Right Away
Fuel is a top priority, as Ruston residents will be thinking about it by Friday. If your propane tank is less than half full, call your supplier now. For those using portable units, fill approved gas cans this week and store them in a detached shed or far from your house.
Next, determine your essential power needs. Make a list of critical household items, such as the refrigerator, HVAC system (or a window unit), a phone charging station, and any medical equipment. Having that list will prevent you from overloading your generator in the dark.
The Day Before the Storm
Give your generator a thorough test run. Power the appliances on your list for about twenty minutes and observe for surging, sputtering, or warning lights. If a standby unit hasn’t been serviced in a year, pay close attention to its battery, as this is often the first component to fail. Confirm the transfer switch is in automatic mode. Finally, clear pine straw and leaves away from the unit and secure patio furniture or any other items that strong winds could push into it.
When the Power Goes Out
A standby generator should activate automatically within seconds. For portable units, safety is paramount. Never operate it in a garage, carport, or under a porch, even with the door open, as carbon monoxide builds up quickly and is odorless. Always keep it outside and well away from windows and vents. Never plug it into a wall outlet to power your house; backfeeding the lines can seriously injure utility crews. Instead, turn appliances on one at a time.
Can You Still Get a Standby Generator Before This Storm?
Honestly, probably not. Installing a permanent standby generator requires an in-home assessment, a concrete pad, a fuel connection, and transfer switch wiring. A responsible installer will not rush this process into a single afternoon; most installations take one to two days once the equipment and schedule are confirmed.
However, this weekend isn’t a wasted reminder. Isaias won’t be the last storm to cause power outages in Ruston, and winter ice storms in North Louisiana can leave homes without power for days. Homeowners who begin planning now will be the ones with automatic backup power when the next outage strikes.
What a Southern Air Generator Installation Looks Like
It begins with a generator installation consultation inside your home. We evaluate your electrical panel and discuss which appliances you want to keep running. Some families only need essential circuits like the HVAC system, refrigerator, and a few outlets, while others prefer to power their entire home as if nothing happened. In either case, we calculate the load to ensure your generator is perfectly sized for your home, not oversold.
Next, we address fuel. Natural gas units connect to your existing line and never require refueling. Propane is an option for homes without gas service, utilizing a tank that needs periodic refilling. We will review the tradeoffs of each option and provide a written proposal with transparent pricing before any work begins.
On installation day, our crew sets the pad, connects the fuel line, and wires the automatic transfer switch. This switch detects an outage, isolates your home from the utility lines, and seamlessly transfers the load to the generator, even if no one is home. We then test the system under simulated outage conditions and demonstrate its operation and necessary maintenance.
Making the Investment Easier
A whole-home generator is a significant investment that rarely fits conveniently into a household budget. Southern Air offers flexible financing options with approved credit, allowing you to protect your home now and spread the cost into manageable monthly payments.
- Several lenders to choose from. Southern Air works with Synchrony, Service Finance, and Turns Financing, so you can find the plan that fits.
- A quick application. The process is simple, and credit decisions come back fast.
- Promotional financing. Special financing terms are available on qualifying purchases, subject to credit approval.
- Predictable monthly payments. Spread the cost of your generator over time instead of paying it all at once.
Get Ready for Isaias, Then Plan for the Next One
If you have questions about preparing your home this week, or if you wish to start planning a standby system before the next storm season, call Southern Air at (318) 310-1740. We serve Ruston and the surrounding Lincoln Parish communities, from neighborhoods near Louisiana Tech to homes outside of town.
Learn more about our generator installation services, and ask about our Shield of Protection Membership to keep your home’s systems maintained through storm season and beyond.
