Q. I have a question regarding your home electricity backup system.

Noting that your Briggs & Stratton QuietPower Q6500 Inverter Generator is not CARB compliant, I am guessing you don't live in California. I do, and would welcome other recommendations.

— R.S., Gilroy, Calif.

A. You are correct that I do not live in California, though I have many readers there and really enjoy corresponding with them.

I live in Pittsburgh and my home power backup system really proved its worth this year. Last spring we were hit with a powerful storm that knocked out power in much of the city and surrounding suburbs. It took a week to restore service in many areas (including my block) and I had the only house on the street with power due to my backup system.

It's kind of cool to have the lights on late

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