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Welding Suppliers Meet Demand for Generators
as Katrina Hits
• Dual-purpose welding generators outperform, cost less than standalone generators
APPLETON, Wis., August 31, 2005 - Miller Electric Mfg. Co. today announced that it is shipping additional emergency power generators to the Gulf Coast region. This action is in response to the increased demand caused by widespread power outages as Hurricane Katrina ravages the area. They will be available at local welding supply stores, a source many consumers overlook when shopping for generators. To find a store with welding generators, call 1-800-426-4553 or visit MillerWelds.com.
Like common stand-alone generators, welding generators are powered by small gasoline engines and have regular 115V and 230V electrical outlets. Used by contractors, farmers/ranchers, maintenance personnel, homeowners and metalworking artists for welding, they also provide 4,500 to 10,000 watts of power for running tools, lights and appliances. Prices are comparable to, or less than, regular generators of similar quality and power.
More Devastation Predicted
"The effects of Katrina will be felt for quite a while and people should be prepared for more power outages, both now and throughout the hurricane season," said John Leisner, Miller product manager. "Even though generators may become scarce in retail stores, we have shipped additional welding generators to the region and have ensured a sufficient supply in anticipation of another rough hurricane season."
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a 70-percent chance of above-average hurricane activity in 2005, with as many as three to five hurricanes reaching Category 3 or higher. This may be reminiscent of last year, when four devastating hurricanes left millions of people without power.
As generators flew off home improvement and hardware store shelves, homeowners without generators struggled to keep lights, refrigerators, wells and sump pumps running. However, the shortage did not extend to welding supply shops. "The shortage was perceived because many consumers didn't know about welding supply stores," Leisner said. "However, we had anticipated the season and had ample welding generators on hand for distribution. We've taken similar actions this year."
How Much Power Do You Need?
Miller recommends considering power needs before purchasing a welding generator. Critical appliances to run during an emergency include well pumps (750 watts), sump pumps (800 watts), refrigerator (700 watts), air conditioners (2,500 watts) and radios (50 to 200). Note that many appliances take much more energy to start than to run.
For information on running home appliances and tools, plus a power calculation worksheet and safety instructions, visit MillerWelds.com/products/generators.
With headquarters in Appleton, Wis., Miller Electric Mfg. Co. is a leading worldwide manufacturer of Miller and Hobart brand arc welding equipment and related systems for metalworking, construction, maintenance and other applications. Miller Electric is a wholly owned subsidiary of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE: ITW), Glenview, Ill. ITW is a diversified multinational manufacturer of highly engineered components, assemblies and systems.
