Be Cautious When Using Backup Generators

During a power outage, you find yourself in the dark and unable to use your appliances. While a generator can provide temporary electricity to power a few appliances or even an entire building, using one improperly can pose a safety hazard.

Before investing in a generator, consider your electrical needs and energy use. Know the difference between standby and portable generators.

Standby generators are wired directly into the home and can be sized to match existing electrical demands. A permanently installed standby generator must have an approved transfer safety switch to prevent feeding electricity back into the electrical system, creating what’s known as backfeed. Backfeed is dangerous for lineworkers and anyone near downed power lines.

Portable generators do not permanently connect to the home and can power only the appliances plugged into them. To avoid backfeed into the utility’s grid, the portable generator should never be plugged directly into the home.

When installed and operated correctly, standby or portable electric generators pose little danger. Improper installation or use could threaten your life and the lives of your family, friends, neighbors and electric utility crew members trying to restore service. The risk of generator accidents is highest between November and February when power outages are more prevalent.

Before using a portable generator, read all manufacturer’s instructions. Properly connecting the generator is critical for safe and effective use. A licensed professional should install a permanent, standby electric generator and can help with proper equipment for safely using a portable generator.

Follow these tips for the safe operation and use of portable generators:

• Place the generator in a dry, open, well-ventilated area away from the home or garage.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors around the home and test them regularly.
• Never plug a portable electric generator into a wall outlet or connect it directly to a building’s wiring.
• Make sure nothing is plugged into the generator before turning it on.
• Unplug all appliances before turning off the generator.
• Turn off the generator and allow it to cool before refueling.
• Use proper extension cords.
• Perform maintenance between uses.

These safety guidelines and basic operating instructions should be posted in the home and with the generator.