If you plan to use a portable generator, here are some important safety precautions:
- Read all instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Never run your generator indoors or in your garage. Generators should only be run in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline-powered generators produce carbon monoxide and the fumes can be deadly if there is not adequate ventilation.
- Plug appliances directly into the generator using heavy duty, properly grounded extension cords.
- Make sure that extension cords are not frayed or worn.
- Limit the electrical load placed on the generator to no more than the recommended wattage.
- Do not connect your power generator directly to your home’s main fuse box or circuit panel.
- Use the generator only when necessary.
- Turn the generator off at night while you sleep and when you are away from home.
- If you have any questions about how to properly use a portable electric generator, contact the manufacturer or a licensed electrician for assistance.
Proper Generator Connection Vital
Connecting a generator to the main electrical supply for your house requires the services of a licensed electrician. Notify Lynches River Electric Cooperative before connecting the generator to your household circuit.
Ultimately, if you are a licensed electrician, the only acceptable way of connecting a generator to your home’s electric system is through a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch.
This switch disconnects your electric system from Lynches River’s power lines and will:
- Eliminate the possibility of allowing your generator to send electricity onto the cooperative’s line, which is extremely dangerous and potentially deadly for our linemen who are working on a line that is supposed to be de-energized.
- Eliminate the possibility of allowing restored power from Lynches River to destroy an improperly connected generator when electric service is restored.
A portable generator can be a powerful tool during a power outage or natural disaster, but it can also be dangerous – even deadly – if not properly installed and operated.