Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Generator installers are busiest right before and right after storms, so the best time to act is winter and early spring.
If you're still shopping
- Get quotes in the off-season — scheduling and equipment availability are easier.
- Allow time for permits, gas meter upgrades, and inspection.
- Ask about lead times on the specific model you want.
If you already have a standby generator
- Schedule annual maintenance before June: oil, filters, spark plugs, battery.
- Confirm it exercises weekly and check for any fault lights.
- Clear vegetation and debris from around the unit.
- Propane users: top off the tank early.
- Know how to read the controller and who to call for service.
When a storm is in the Gulf
- Check the unit is in automatic mode.
- Secure loose items that could blow into it.
- Never run a portable generator indoors or in a garage — carbon monoxide is deadly.