Generator Installation's

When operating a generator, adhere strictly to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure safe and proper use. Local ordinances regarding noise, electricity, and positioning of generators should also be followed to prevent any unexpected problems. You should also follow this additional advice to prevent potential electrocutions or fires from misuse of a stand-by or portable generator:

• Always start your portable generator BEFORE plugging any appliances into it to prevent a potential power surge. Once the generator is running, turn your appliances and lights on one at a time to avoid overloading the unit. Remember, generators are for temporary usage. Prioritize your needs.
• NEVER connect a generator directly to your home's electrical system, either through an outlet or through your home's wiring. This can cause a dangerous backfeed effect which sends an electrical current that can re-energize overhead power lines, which can injure or kill unsuspecting lineworkers there to restore your community's power. Electrocutions are the fifth leading cause of all occupational deaths.
• Always use heavy-duty, suitably rated extension cords to connect appliances to your generator. These must be able to handle proper electrical loads and be long enough to reach your generator.
• Generators can pose an electrical risk, especially in wet conditions. Ensure your generator stays dry during operation and that you do not handle electrical equipment with wet hands. In wet weather, you can protect the generator by operating it under an open, canopy-like structure on a dry surface where water cannot form puddles or drain under it.
• Exercise caution around generators with exposed engine parts which can potentially burn you. Children and pets should be kept away from generators to prevent any risks of injury.
• Be sure the generator is turned off and cool before fueling it. Use care when refueling to prevent potential fires or spills.
• Properly shut down your generator by first turning off and unplugging all appliances being powered by the generator.
• Make sure you perform regular maintenance on your generator before and after each use.
  • You should inspect the oil and fuel filters, oil levels, spark plugs, and fuel quality on your portable generators.
  • Standby generators require less maintenance but should be inspected before and after outages.

When using gasoline- and diesel-powered portable generators to supply power to a building, switch the main breaker or fuse on the service panel to the "off" position before starting the generator. This will prevent power lines from being inadvertently energized by backfeeding electrical energy from the generators, and help protect utility line workers or other repair workers or people in neighboring buildings from possible electrocution. If the generator is plugged into a household circuit without turning the main breaker to the “off” position or removing the main fuse, the electrical current could reverse, go back through the circuit to the outside power grid, and energize power lines or electrical systems in other buildings to, at, or near their original voltage without the knowledge of utility or other workers.

If there are any questions regarding the operation or installation of the portable generator, a qualified electrician should be immediately contacted to assist in installation and start-up activities. The generator should always be positioned outside the structure.