A generator is a great way to keep your lights on, food fresh, and any important appliances running during a power outage. However, a generator can be dangerous if you don’t know how to use it. Fires, electrocution, and fumes can make a bad situation worse. Here’s what you need to know before you’re in an emergency.
Keep It Outdoors
Gas, diesel, and propane generators all produce carbon monoxide (CO) as part of their normal operation. If you don’t have battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors, your only warning may be dizziness or weakness.
Never run a generator in your home, garage, crawlspace, attic, or any partially enclosed space. Your generator should be outdoors and located at least 20 feet from any windows or vents. Find a level spot where you can keep your generator well-ventilated and dry. You can set up a canopy or tarp to help protect it from water, but be sure to leave at least 3 feet around the top and sides.
Prevent Fires
A generator can start fires in a few ways. First, if you spill fuel on a hot engine, that can cause a fire. Make sure the engine is cool before you try to refill the generator. Keep stored fuel away from your home and your generator to help prevent fires.
Plug in Appliances the Right Way
Any appliances or devices should be plugged directly into the generator. If your generator is too far away to run what you need, you’ll need an outdoor, grounded extension cable that can handle it. It should be rated for more power than everything you want to plug in. Make sure you check it for damage like tears or a missing ground pin before you use it.
Avoid Backfeeding
Don’t try to plug your generator directly into your home. That causes “backfeeding,” which can energize power lines and put any electricians or line workers trying to fix the power outage in danger. Backfeeding is both illegal and dangerous, so don’t plug your generator into any outlets in your home. If you want the option to run your home off of a permanent or portable generator during a power outage, have one of a qualified electrician install it the right way.
Be Ready for the Next Power Outage
Don’t wait until a power outage happens to get your generator ready. We can help with your portable generator or install a permanent option perfect for your home. Call Innovate Electric in St. Louis, MO for help with all of your generator needs.
