The purpose of this guide is to hopefully educate users in the safe operation and use of portable generators.
I am deeply saddened when I hear of families dying while using these types of generators. Sometimes even our utility linemen and women are killed because of the improper installation and use of these generators. Hopefully, I can save a few lives by writing a general guide based on what I have learned being a qualified electrician in a hurricane pron area.
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Proper and Improper Installations
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Improper Installation -
One that uses a cord that runs from your generator to your dryer outlet. -
One that uses a cord to connect to a 20 or 30 amp outlet installed by a so called electrician. -
One that uses a cord to connect to your generator then into a circuit breaker into your house panel. -
These types of installations are the less expensive but most dangerous to your generator and too our utility linemen & women. -
If you do not follow "a proper sequence" when your using your generator for backup utility you run the risk of the line utility being restored and feeding power back into your generator and destroying it. Likewise, you can send utility power up the utility powerlines and kill utility works whom are unaware that the lines are energised thanks to your generator and it's improper installation. -
Many electricians will install these types of installations for a quick buck. But they know it is not safe and they can be liable should you or someone get injured or killed. -
Proper Installation -
Use of an UL listed extension cord to what you want to run power to. IE. Frige or Freezer. -
One that uses a manual transfer switch. -
One that uses a automatic transfer switch. -
These types of switches are more expensive than just having a plug installed under your house panel, but they are worth it. -
How they work. A transfer switch is like a mini house panel. It will have breakers (between 4 and 12 usually) that can be switched from utility power to generator power. In the event of a power outage. You can plug in your "SO"cord (supplied with your transfer switch usually) from your generator to your transfer switch. (they have an outlet for this purpose) Then start your generator. Switch on the circuits that you want your generator to run. (If you have a manual transfer) IE: Your fridge, freezer, Living room TV. -
These transfer switches are designed to only allow power to a circuit by one source at a time. Either Utility or Generator. This also keeps your generator power from entering the utility lines and creating a hazard for our line workers. Your generator will not be damaged when utility power is restored because of this proper installation. -
Safety concious electricians will only do this type of installation. This type is the safest for all involved. -
Where to Operate your generator -
Never inside your home or garage -
The carbon monoxide created by your generator can silently kill you or your whole family in a matter of minutes. Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. ( I'm told there are none fossil fuel buring generators that do not emit the carbon monoxide but I have never seen one yet. ) -
If your concerned about someone stealing your generator when you leave it outside running, chain it up to your car outside of your garage or to a tree. Put a chain around your cars frame and then around the frame of the generator. -
If your concerned about the noise, don't be. Everyone has the right to buy and operate a generator. Just because your neighbor didn't opt to prepare for an outage doesn't mean you should be in the dark. Some areas may have a noise ordinance. Nothing loud say after 10pm. In that case you may have to turn it off until daybreak. At least your food should not spoil in that amount of time. -
If the cord supplied is not long enough to reach your transfer switch from outside the garage have an electrican make one for you! For the money involved it is well worth your life!
I truly hope that this information will save lifes. Maybe even yours. If I have accomplished this the time spend here was well worth it!
Orignal From: Personal Portable Generator Safety
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