Using a generator for backup power during emergencies or outdoor activities? While both whole home and portable generators can be incredibly useful, they also pose significant safety risks. Generator safety isn't something to take lightly. Understanding the proper procedures and precautions can prevent accidents while helping you safely harness the power of your generator when you need it most.
"Emergency generators offer a great way to supply power to your home during a power outages or blackout so you can run fans, heating, lights, and more but there are some things to be mindful of," cautions Dan Mock, VP of Operations at Mister Sparky. "With potential mega hurricanes and other summer weather events upon us, many homeowners will run generators, and improper generator usage can be a poison and fire hazard with potentially lethal consequences. It’s important to know the dos and don’ts of using a generator to keep your home and family safe." To help consumers navigate use of home generators safely, the company shared these tips:
Do: Update Your Home's Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
"Common portable back-up generators produce levels of carbon monoxide (CO)," notes Mock. "Since CO is colorless and odorless, it is incredibly dangerous. Carbon monoxide alarms or monitors are necessary in homes, especially when there’s generator in use. To keep your family safe from carbon monoxide poisoning with the proper tools or a generator with a built-in CO sensor."
Do: Run Your Generator Outdoors at a Safe Distance
Even the strongest draft isn’t powerful enough to make running a portable generator indoors safe. "Generators can be a lifesaver in the event of an outage but they need to be used with caution," shares Mock. And remember, a backup generator is essentially a hot engine. "Always keep kids and pets away from the power source and use five feet of clearance on all sides to avoid fire hazards. To prevent rusting or shorting make sure to protect your generator from the elements when not in use and service regularly.
Don't: Overlook Routine Maintenance
You shouldn't forget to change the oil and conduct routine maintenance when your generator is not in use. "Like any household appliance, a generator needs proper maintenance to stay in the best, safest condition," notes Mock. "You don’t want to be in an emergency only to find out there’s an issue with your generator, so changing the oil and conducting routine maintenance will keep you safe and prepared." For standby generators, remember to contact a licensed electrician if you need help with a matter involving your electrical panel to minimize electrocution risk.
Don't: Overload a Generator
While a whole home generator should have been properly sized to meet the electrical needs of your household, it's important to remember that portable generators have limited wattage. Avoid plugging in too many devices at once, which can overload the generator and cause it to malfunction or overheat. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for load capacity.
