How to Cool Your Home When You Don’t Have Power: Using a Portable AC Unit with a Generator

In Florida, power outages can happen unexpectedly, especially during hurricane season or extreme weather events. When the power goes out, keeping your home cool becomes a challenge, particularly in the sweltering heat. One of the best solutions for staying comfortable during a power outage is using a portable air conditioning unit paired with a generator. This combination can provide relief when your central AC is out of commission.

At Big Air AC, we understand how important it is to keep cool, even when the power goes out. Here’s a guide on how to effectively cool your home using a portable AC unit and generator during a power outage.

1. Invest in a Portable AC Unit

A portable air conditioning unit is a versatile solution for cooling specific rooms in your home during a power outage. These units are typically compact, easy to move, and require less power than a central air system, making them ideal for running off a generator.

When choosing a portable AC unit, consider the size of the room you need to cool. Portable AC units are rated by BTUs (British Thermal Units), which measure the cooling capacity:

• Up to 200 square feet: 8,000 BTU unit

• 200-350 square feet: 10,000 BTU unit

• 350-500 square feet: 12,000 BTU unit

Smaller units are more efficient and use less power, making them easier to run on a generator.

2. Choose the Right Generator

A generator is essential for powering your portable AC unit when the electricity is out. The key is to select a generator that has enough wattage to handle the power demands of the AC unit along with any other essentials you may want to run, such as lights or a refrigerator.

Here’s a general guideline for power requirements:

• 8,000 BTU portable AC: Requires around 900 watts to run

• 10,000 BTU portable AC: Requires around 1,200 watts to run

• 12,000 BTU portable AC: Requires around 1,500 watts to run

Make sure the generator you choose provides enough wattage to run your portable AC unit comfortably, along with any additional appliances you plan to power.

3. Set Up the Generator Safely

Using a generator safely is critical to avoiding hazardous situations like carbon monoxide poisoning or electrical fires. Here are some important tips for safe generator use:

• Place the generator outdoors: Never run a generator indoors, including in garages or enclosed spaces. Generators produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. Keep the generator at least 20 feet away from your home and any open windows.

• Use the correct power cords: Only use heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use to connect your portable AC unit to the generator. Make sure the cords are long enough to place the generator far from your home.

• Check fuel levels: Most generators run on gasoline or propane. Always keep extra fuel on hand and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe refueling. Never refuel the generator while it’s running or hot.

4. Maximize Cooling Efficiency

When you’re relying on a portable AC unit and generator to cool your home during a power outage, it’s important to maximize efficiency to ensure that the generator’s fuel lasts as long as possible. Here are a few tips:

• Cool only the most used rooms: Focus on cooling one or two rooms where you and your family will spend the most time. Close doors to other rooms and seal gaps under doors to keep cool air contained.

• Keep blinds and curtains closed: Blocking out sunlight can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering your home, making it easier for the portable AC to maintain a cooler temperature.

• Use fans to circulate air: A battery-powered or generator-powered fan can help distribute cool air more effectively, allowing your portable AC unit to work more efficiently.

• Seal any drafts: Make sure windows and doors are closed tightly to prevent warm air from entering and cool air from escaping.

5. Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning

If you don’t have access to a portable AC unit and generator, there are still ways to stay cool during a power outage:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help regulate your body temperature.

• Use cool cloths: Dampen a washcloth with cool water and place it on your forehead or neck to cool down.

• Create cross-ventilation: If the outside temperature drops in the evening, open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze and allow cooler air to circulate.

6. Plan Ahead for Hurricane Season

Power outages are common during hurricanes and other severe storms in Florida, so planning ahead is key. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Test your generator: Before hurricane season begins, test your generator to ensure it’s working properly. Make sure you have enough fuel stored in a safe location.

• Stock up on supplies: Keep extra water, batteries, and non-perishable food on hand so you’re prepared if the power goes out for an extended period.

• Create a cooling plan: Identify which rooms you’ll cool with your portable AC unit and generator, and make sure you have the necessary extension cords and other supplies ready to go.

7. Consider a Whole-Home Generator

If you’re looking for a long-term solution to power outages, consider investing in a whole-home generator. These generators are permanently installed and automatically kick in when the power goes out, providing enough energy to power your entire home, including your central AC system. While they are more expensive upfront, whole-home generators offer peace of mind and comfort during extended outages.

At Big Air AC, we understand the importance of staying cool during a power outage, especially in Florida’s hot climate. Whether you need help choosing the right portable AC unit or want to learn more about whole-home generator options, we’re here to assist you. Contact us today to discuss your cooling needs and how we can help you prepare for power outages.