Before the Next Storm: A Backup Power and Home Readiness Checklist for Katy

Isaias Is a Reason to Review Two Different Hurricane Power Risks

As of October 7, 2026, Tropical Storm Isaias is in the Gulf and is forecast to become a hurricane. For the changing outlook, use the National Hurricane Center and local alerts. A direct hit is not a prerequisite for reviewing your home’s electrical plan.

For Katy, Fulshear, Richmond and Cypress homeowners, start with a distinction: protecting equipment from a surge and supplying electricity during an outage are different jobs. Air Tech of Katy can help you discuss both without assuming one device solves every problem.

Write Two Questions Before You Schedule Service

First: “What protection does my home have against voltage surges?” Second: “What would supply the loads I need if utility power stops?” Bring those questions to an electrical assessment. A surge protector cannot keep the refrigerator running through an outage, and a generator should not be assumed to replace a complete surge-protection plan.

Prioritize the problems you actually need to solve. If you already own a standby generator, review its service history. If you are considering a new one, decide which appliances matter most before discussing capacity. Keep the household emergency kit ready regardless of the equipment you choose.

Start With the Essentials

Charge phones and power banks. Gather flashlights, batteries, water, food, medications, and supplies for pets. Know how you will receive local alerts and where you will go if evacuation is required. Backup power is useful, but it does not make a home safe from flooding or remove the need to leave when officials say to go.

Write down the equipment that matters most during an outage. A refrigerator, selected lights, and phone charging are one level of demand. Adding central air conditioning or a pump changes the calculation. Bring that list to a generator consultation.

Surge Protection and Backup Power Do Different Jobs

Whole-home surge protection helps limit voltage spikes. A standby generator provides another power source when utility power fails. One does not replace the other.

Both depend on an electrical system that is in suitable condition. If you have recurring breaker trips, damaged outlets, or flickering lights, arrange a professional inspection. Do not remove panel covers or try to make wiring changes as a last-minute storm project.

What to Ask Before Installing a Generator

• What will it run? Have the installer explain the circuits covered and the equipment that can operate at the same time.
• What fuel will it use? Discuss supply, expected runtime, and any limitations.
• How will it connect? Proper transfer equipment separates backup power from utility power.
• What does installation involve? Review siting, clearances, approvals, and scheduling before assuming the home is covered.
• What maintenance is required? An installed generator still needs attention between outages.

Generator Coupon: Free Estimates

Air Tech of Katy offers free estimates on new whole-home generator installations. It is a straightforward way to start planning the right backup power setup for your house.

Estimates for new installs only. Some restrictions may apply. Please call for details. View the generator estimate coupon and mention it when you request service.

Do the Outdoor Work While the Weather Is Calm

Secure planters, patio furniture, and other loose items. Remove debris around the outdoor AC unit without blocking its airflow. Do not cover it while it runs. Address AC drainage or cooling problems before severe weather makes a visit harder to schedule.

If you own a standby generator, check its maintenance schedule and warning indicators. Keep its required clearances open. Arrange service for a failed exercise cycle or starting problem, and leave fuel connections and transfer-switch work to a qualified professional.

Keep Portable Generator Use Safe

A portable generator belongs outdoors, at least 20 feet from homes, with exhaust pointed away from buildings. Never run it in a garage or feed power through a wall outlet. Check carbon monoxide alarms and shut the unit down to cool before adding fuel. Follow the CPSC’s portable generator precautions and the equipment instructions.

Do Not Rush the Restart

After the storm, avoid downed lines and flooded electrical equipment. If water reached the AC, generator, or wiring, leave the equipment off until it has been inspected. A house can look normal from the street and still have unsafe equipment.

Get the planning done before an outage tests it. Use Air Tech of Katy’s free generator estimate offer to discuss your home’s needs and the next available installation steps.