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Power Generators and Storage: Getting Ready for Winter Outages in Waukee

By Waukee Power Pros · October 18, 2026

Winter is coming to Waukee and the rest of Dallas County, and a winter power outage is different from a summer one. Without power, most furnaces cannot run, sump pumps stop, and pipes can freeze. The nice fall weather right now is the best time to sort out backup power, while you can still work outside comfortably and before the first ice storm.

Here is a plain-English look at the three main options, how to size them, and the safety rules that matter most.

Option 1: Portable generators

A portable generator runs on gasoline (some models also run on propane) and powers things through cords or a transfer switch. Inverter generators make cleaner power for electronics and run quieter. They cost less than a standby system and can go camping or to a job site, but someone has to set them up, fuel them and run cords in the cold.

Option 2: Home standby generators

A standby generator sits outside on a pad, runs on natural gas or propane, and starts on its own when the power goes out through an automatic transfer switch. It is the most hands-off option and can power much more of the house. It is also the biggest investment and needs a licensed installer, permits and a gas supply sized for it, so get an installed quote before buying a unit.

Option 3: Battery power stations

Portable power stations (sometimes called solar generators when paired with a panel) store electricity in a battery. They are silent, make no exhaust and can be used indoors, which makes them great for phones, laptops, lights, a CPAP or a router. Most are too small to run a furnace or sump pump for long, so think of them as a companion to a generator or for short outages.

Sizing basics

• List what you must run: furnace blower, sump pump, refrigerator, a few lights, phone chargers, maybe a well pump.
• Find the watts on each appliance's label or manual. Motors need extra starting (surge) watts for a moment when they kick on.
• Add up running watts, then make sure the generator's running rating covers it with the biggest starting surge on top.
• For battery stations, watt-hours tell you how long it can run something: a device that draws 100 watts uses about 100 watt-hours each hour.
• When in doubt, have an electrician do a load calculation.

Carbon monoxide: the rule that saves lives

The CDC says to never use a generator inside your home or garage, even if doors and windows are open, and to run it outside only, more than 20 feet from windows, doors and vents. In winter it is tempting to keep the generator in the garage out of the snow. Don't. Carbon monoxide has no smell and can kill in minutes. Put battery-powered or battery-backup CO alarms in the house, and choose a generator with a CO shutoff feature.

Transfer switches and hookups

Never plug a generator into a wall outlet to "backfeed" the house. It can electrocute utility workers and damage your home's wiring. The safe way is a transfer switch or interlock installed by a licensed electrician, which lets you run selected circuits from the generator. In Iowa, connecting to your panel needs an electrical permit and inspection.

Fuel storage and cold-weather starting

• Store gasoline only in approved containers, outside the living space and away from heat sources.
• Use fuel stabilizer if gas will sit for more than a month, and rotate it.
• Start and run your generator once a month so you know it works before you need it.
• Check the manual for the right winter oil weight; thick oil makes cold starts hard.
• Keep a cover or generator tent that is made for running, and clear snow so exhaust and air intake stay open.
• Standby generators can use a cold weather kit; ask your installer.

Gear from our shop

These are from our generator shop, with the specs as each listing states them:

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Your pre-winter backup power checklist

• Decide what has to stay on: heat, sump pump, fridge, medical devices.
• Choose portable, standby, battery, or a mix.
• Have an electrician install a transfer switch or interlock.
• Pick a safe outdoor spot more than 20 feet from the house.
• Install CO alarms with battery backup on every level.
• Store fuel safely and test-run the generator.
• Charge your power stations and keep them topped off.

When to call a pro

Call a pro for any standby generator, any connection to your electrical panel, gas line work, or if you are not sure what size you need. The local backup power installers we work with can size the system, handle permits and get it done while the weather is still nice.