Generators are very helpful when power is needed for the home, but can be dangerous if not used properly.
The following guidelines are designed to keep you safe when using a portable generator in and around the home.
For one thing, you should never connect a generator directly into your home's wiring unless you use a transfer switch.
Generating electricity directly into your home may create "back feed" out into the incoming power lines.
Power line transformers then step up the power to thousands of volts that could do harm to linemen repairing the lines.
You could also knock out utility equipment or damage the portable unit itself.
Instead, you should plug directly into the appliance that you want to run.
If you have several appliances, make sure that you don't run more equipment than the portable generator can handle.
Check the wattage rating of the unit vs.
the wattage rating of the appliances.
If you overload the generator, you could cause damage to your appliances or equipment.
You should never run a gas powered generator inside a home or garage because of the carbon monoxide fumes generated from the motor.
It should be operated in a well ventilated area, preferably ten feet or more away from your home.
It should also be protected from the weather under a car port or canopy.
It's a good idea to get a carbon monoxide detector in your home just in case.
Always use the proper power cords.
You should use only heavy duty, outdoor rated cords with a high enough gauge to handle the electrical current.
Small lamp cords and such aren't heavy enough to carry the load in most cases.
They could overheat and cause a fire.
Do not use damaged cords the exposed wire can cause a fire or electric shock.
When you run the cords, try and keep them on the ground and close to the edge of the home so no one trips over them.
Don't try to refuel the portable generator when the unit is running.
Any spark could ignite the fumes and cause a fire or explosion.
It's a good idea to have fire extinguisher close by when running the unit.
Parts of the generator get very hot, so avoid getting burned and keep children away from the unit at all times.
When it comes to safety, don't take chances.
Electricity and gas together make for many potential disasters.
Always read the safety manual before operating the unit.