Standby Generators
Standby generators are great. They can keep the heat on and life-saving
equipment operating during a power outage. But hooking up a generator wrong can
put a lineman's life at risk.
Your wiring system should include a transfer switch to disconnect your service
from the cooperative electric system before you start your generator. If the
switch doesn't work right, the generator can feed electricity back into lines
our linemen think are de-energized while they try to restore your power. Have a
qualified electrician install a transfer switch today.
Safety Tips--Post these next to your generator!
- Read and follow all manufacturer operating instructions to properly ground the
generator. Be sure you understand them before hooking up the generator.
- Maintain adequate ventilation. Generators emit carbon monoxide. Never
operate a generator in your home, garage, or other enclosed building. Place it
in a dry, outside location.
- Never plug a portable electric generator
into a wall outlet or connect directly to a home's wiring. This can energize
utility power lines and injure you or others working nearby. Electrical back
feed also can damage the generator and home electrical equipment. Make sure you
have a transfer switch installed.
- Turn off generator and allow
cooling before refueling. Gasoline and its vapors may ignite if they come in
contact with hot components or an electrical spark. Store fuel in a properly
designed container in a secure location.
- Protect your appliances.
Turn off or disconnect all appliances and lights before you begin operating the
portable generator. Once the generator is running, turn your appliances and
lights on one at a time to avoid overloading the unit.
- Use proper
extension cords. Use only safety-tested, shop-type electrical cords designed and
rated for heavier, outdoor use to connect appliances. Many generators are
equipped with twist-lock connects to reduce the chance of accidental
disconnections due to vibrations.
- Shut down generator properly.
Before shutting down a generator, turn off and unplug all appliances and
equipment being powered by the generator.
- Remember maintenance
between uses. It's important to drain the gasoline from the generator while it
is being stored. It's also a good idea to inspect the fuel and oil filters,
spark plug, oil level and fuel quality and start the generator on a regular
basis before an emergency situation happens.
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