Imagine that a relentless and forceful storm takes over your neighborhood, and the lights go out. In situations like this, a generator can seem like a superhero, magically appearing to bring light and heat back to a home. However, generators are powerful, electricity-producing machines. So, if you treat them carelessly, they can present significant electrical risks to your home and even your community.
Location Is Critical
One of the most common errors people make with generators is running them in the wrong location. Generators emit carbon monoxide, which is colorless, odorless and dangerous. You can’t see, smell or taste it, but in a matter of minutes, it can fill an enclosed area and poison you. That’s why you should never run a generator inside your home, the garage, the basement or even on a covered porch. A general guideline is to keep it at least 20 feet away from your home.
Connecting a Generator to Your House: The Transfer Switch Rule
Never plug a generator directly into a wall outlet in your house, a practice known as backfeeding. When you backfeed electricity into your home, you’re sending electricity out onto the main utility lines, which can be deadly to utility workers.
Always use a safe, properly installed transfer switch. This unique switch ensures that your house is connected to either the utility grid or your generator but never both simultaneously. It needs to be installed by a qualified electrician.
How to Use Extension Cords Safely
If you are not using a transfer switch, and you are just connecting a few items like your fridge, freezer or other critical appliances directly to the generator, you still must be extremely careful with extension cords. Make sure the ones you use are heavy-duty, outdoor-rated and can carry the electrical load of the generator. Thin indoor cords can become too hot, melt or even ignite, particularly when they are strung across high-traffic areas or under carpets or other objects where heat can accumulate.
Keep cords clear of puddles and wet conditions, and check them often for signs of cuts or frayed insulation. A damaged cord is a shock or fire hazard in the making.
Fuel and Maintenance: Play It Safe
Generators are powered by fuel, often gasoline, and storing and handling this fuel properly is another important safety precaution. Always store gasoline in approved containers, and keep them in a cool, dry place. Do not store fuel in your living space or next to the generator, either. Never add fuel to a hot or running generator. Wait until it cools down completely before refueling.
Finally, have your generator serviced by a professional each year. This will ensure that it runs at peak performance, with no hidden safety issues. To preserve the safety of your Denver, CO home and everyone who lives there, call Absolute Electrical Heating and Air for generator maintenance.