Power Generators

Electric Backup & Portable Generators

Generator Safety Tips

Generators are a terrific way to back up your power supply in an emergency. But they are machines that need to be treated right and with respect. Be sure you know how to safely use and install a generator. If not, you could be at risk of injury or damage.

First and foremost in generator safety is to read all instructions that come with it.

Familiarize yourself with the proper setup, safety feature, and cautions. You may want to keep the owners manual in a dry, safe place. If you lose it, contact the manufacturer of your generator for a copy. This is a must.

Generators can get very hot in some places. They are engines. Avoid contact directly with the generator. They come with handles or other bars to move it. Once in place, it needs to be in an area where a person could not accidentally bump it.

Don't ever use a generator in an enclosed room or area, like a garage. Many people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning. It should never be used in a house for any reason.

Never plug your generator directly into your home's wiring through the electric box or a wall outlet. Both can cause backfeed that can be dangerous.

However, your generator that is to be used as a backup power supply for your home, can be wired by an electrician. They will do it the right way. Do not attempt this yourself for any reason.

Check the power rating of your generator and do not overload it. Overloading can damage the appliances that are running off of it, as well as cause wire fires.

If you use a portable generator, be sure and store the gasoline safely. Gasoline must be stored in an approved gas container specifically for gasoline. Avoid storing this fuel near any heat or flame source. A good tip is to use this gasoline in a mower or other yard items. That way, the gas will always be fresh.

Never put gasoline in your generator while it is running. This is just too much of a fire hazard.