Prepare for Summer Storms: Why Maine Homes Need a Backup Generator

Why Power Outages in Maine Are More Common Than You Think

Maine’s summer storms are more than just a seasonal nuisance-they bring powerful winds, intense lightning, and heavy rainfall that frequently disrupt power across the state. Each year, thousands of residents face unexpected outages, sometimes lasting for days. In October 2017, a severe storm, often referred to as a “bomb cyclone,” struck Maine with wind gusts reaching up to 69 mph in Portland, leaving approximately 500,000 residents without electricity. Similar events in recent years have highlighted the vulnerability of Maine’s power grid during extreme weather. With the peak of summer storm season approaching, now is the time to consider how a backup generator can protect your home and family from prolonged power loss.

The True Cost of Losing Power During a Summer Storm

When the power goes out, life doesn’t just pause-it quickly becomes uncomfortable, unsafe, and expensive. Without electricity, air conditioning systems shut down, making the summer heat unbearable, especially for seniors and children. Refrigerators and freezers stop working, leading to spoiled food and unnecessary costs. Home security systems go offline, leaving properties more vulnerable. Those who rely on medical equipment like oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines may find themselves in a dangerous situation. Perhaps even more concerning, sump pumps stop running, which means heavy rainfall could lead to flooding inside homes. What starts as a brief storm could turn into thousands of dollars in property damage simply because of a power outage. A Generac backup generator eliminates these risks, ensuring that your home stays comfortable and functional, even when the grid fails.

How a Backup Generator Keeps Your Home Running During Summer Storms

Unlike portable generators that require manual setup, a Generac standby generator detects a power outage and automatically restores electricity within seconds. Whether the blackout lasts a few hours or multiple days, a properly sized backup generator can keep your HVAC system, kitchen appliances, security systems, and essential electronics powered without interruption. Having a standby generator means you can ride out the storm in comfort without scrambling for flashlights, searching for candles, or worrying about food spoiling. Your home remains a safe haven, even during the worst summer weather.

The Best Time to Prepare for Storm Season Is Before It Begins

With Memorial Day marking the unofficial start of summer, now is the perfect time to get your generator installed or serviced. Many homeowners wait until a major storm is approaching to think about backup power, but by then, it may be too late. If you already own a Generac generator, it’s important to make sure it’s storm-ready by scheduling a pre-season maintenance check. Generators that have been sitting idle for months may need a new battery, fresh oil, or a test run to ensure they’ll work properly when needed. Don’t assume it will start-know for certain.

Be Ready Before the Next Power Outage Hits

Power outages in Maine aren’t a matter of if, but when. Whether it’s a strong thunderstorm, grid failure, or even a nor’easter, losing electricity in the peak of summer can be disruptive, uncomfortable, and costly. At Generator Supercenter of Maine, we help homeowners stay prepared by offering professional generator installation, maintenance, and emergency support. If you’ve been considering adding a backup power solution, now is the best time to act before summer storms put your home at risk. Call us today at (207) 400-6277 or visit our showroom at 269 US RT-1, Unit #104 to schedule your generator service or consultation. Don’t wait for the next outage-be prepared now.