Star

Generator Safety

Recent studies show an overwhelming share of home generators are installed incorrectly. Whether you run a portable or standby unit, a few precautions protect your family, your equipment, and the crews working to restore power.

 

Portable Generators

SETUP

Before You Start

Read and follow all manufacturer instructions to properly ground the generator - understand them fully before hooking it up.

Maintain adequate ventilation. Generators emit carbon monoxide, and fire code prohibits running one inside a home, garage, or other enclosed building. Place it in a dry location outdoors.

FUEL

Refueling Safely

Turn off the generator and let it cool before refueling - gasoline and its vapors can ignite on contact with hot components or a spark.

Store fuel in a properly designed container, away from the generator and other fuel-burning appliances like water heaters. Keep a fully charged, approved fire extinguisher nearby.

WHILE RUNNING

Managing Load And Conditions

Turn off or disconnect all appliances and lights before starting the generator. Once it’s running, turn things on one at a time to avoid overload - generators are for temporary use, so prioritize your needs.

Wet conditions raise the electrical risk. Only run a generator when necessary in wet or moist weather, and make sure your hands are dry before touching it.

Keep children and pets away at all times - many components run hot enough to burn.

Use only safely-tested, shop-type extension cords rated for heavier outdoor use. Many generators use twist-lock connectors to reduce accidental disconnection from vibration.

SHUTDOWN & UPKEEP

Ending A Session And Maintained Between Uses

Before shutting down, turn off and unplug all appliances and equipment the generator is powering.

Drain the gasoline before storing. Between uses, inspect the fuel and oil filters, spark plug, oil level, and fuel quality, and start the generator periodically before an emergency happens.

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Standby Generators

Many members utilize standby generators during power outages, but are unaware of potential hazards if they are not installed properly.

REQUIRED

Install a double-throw switch

A double-throw switch keeps your generator’s power from feeding back onto EnerStar’s power lines. Contact a qualified electrician to ensure it’s installed correctly.

Without it, an accidental connection between your standby generator and our service lines can energize our distribution system through the transformer at your location. You generator could then pick up load beyond your property and be damaged - and the resulting primary voltage could fatally injure linemen working on our facilities.

 

Questions About Generators

If you are considering the purchase of a new generator or have questions about installation, contact EnerStar’s Greg Hollingsworth at (800) 635-4145 ext. 118.

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