With the 2010 hurricane season predicted to be an active one, Generac is advising home owners that now is a good time to learn how to protect themselves from the danger and inconvenience of power outages.

According to AccuWeather.com, the upcoming hurricane season could be one of the 10 most active on record, with Joe Bastardi, chief hurricane meteorologist, predicting a total of 16 to 18 storms, at least six of which are expected to have an impact on the U.S. coastline.

One of the best ways to protect the home from dangerous power outages is to install a standby generator that automatically comes on when the power goes out. Generac has developed an easy guide for home owners to consider when choosing the right standby generator for the home.

In the wake of a hurricane, power lines are often disrupted or destroyed, the manufacturer says. By knowing what actions to take, the potentially disastrous and costly effects of a power outage can be reduced.

Generac offers a number of products with a range of applications, from powering a few appliances to backing up the entire house:

Portable Solutions

• GP Series 
  Up to 17,500 watts in size, Generac’s rugged, dependable portable generators can deliver power wherever it’s needed — from construction sites to tailgate parties.
  
  
• XP Series  
  The undisputed workhorse of the portable market, Generac’s professional grade XP portable generators are engineered specifically with contractors and construction sites in mind.
  
  
• XG Series 
  The premium quality power and reliable performance of the XG Series comes from Generac’s OHVI engine, a rugged unit that can provide years of reliable power.
  
  
• iX Series 
  Inverter technology takes the raw power produced by the generator and passes it through a special electronic microprocessor to provide clean and stable power, safe for computers and other sensitive electronic devices.  Designed for life on the road, its durable, lightweight, compact design with a built-in handle offers portable power for camping, tailgating and recreational use.

Permanently Installed Solutions

• Guardian Series 
  This is the top selling home standby generator, the choice of four out of five families for 24/7 backup power protection.
  
  
• Quietsource Series 
  Premium features are standard for the ultimate standby generator. Thanks to a low-speed engine, it’s so quiet you’ll forget you own a generator until you need it. This generator is ideal for large residential and small to medium commercial applications.

For more information on Generac’s complete line of residential and commercial products, visit www.generac.com, or call 888-GENERAC (436-3722).

Headquartered in Waukesha, Wis., Generac is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — The Leading Suppliers of NAHB.

This feature is solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing on this page should be construed as policy, an endorsement, warranty or guaranty by the National Association of Home Builders of the featured product or the product manufacturer. The National Association of Home Builders expressly disclaims any responsibility for any damages arising from the use, application or reliance on any information contained on this page.