ALWAYS start with the instruction manual that comes with the generator. Follow the instructions for operating the generator. In addition, keep the safety tips below in mind.
- Keep all guards and shields in place to protect the operator.
- Never run a generator in a basement, garage or enclosed area. Keep the portable generator at least 20 feet from windows and doors.
- Fumes that are not easily detected can be lethal to sleeping occupants and others. Invest in a carbon monoxide detector.
- Never shut off the generator under load. Remove the load first then turn generator off.
- Never re-fuel a generator when hot or while the engine is running.
- Use extreme care under wet conditions; making your body a path to ground can cause a fatal shock.
- For small portable generators that serve a single freezer, sump pump or other appliance that plugs directly into the generator, a transfer switch is not necessary.
- Anytime a generator serves a load through the permanent wiring system of the home or business, a suitable NEC approved transfer switch must be used.
- Always contact a licensed and insured electrician to permanently wire a generator back up system into your home or business.
- Electrical inspections from the local Planning and Zoning is required after the wiring installation is completed.
Generator wiring
- Automatic and manual generator transfer switches should be installed by a licensed and insured electrician on your home or business. This type of switch will prevent electricity, generated by the standby unit or portable generator from flowing simultaneously to both the connected load and to the utility’s system.
- Proper generator connections are required for safe interconnection of any back up generator whether portable or permanently installed generators.
- Use outdoor rated extension cords to power separate appliances.
Check out our latest Wire-to-Wire with Nolin RECC video/podcast for tips for staying safe when using a generator. Always follow the instructions that come with the generator closely!