1When a storm hits, and the power goes out, you might be left in the dark for an extended period. However, many people invest in generators to help keep the lights on, and purchasing one requires careful consideration. Bowie-Cass Electric Cooperative urges you to make sure you understand power and safety considerations before adding a generator to your home.
Homeowners can choose from two types of generators: portable and standby.
A portable generator is usually gas-powered and can be moved around. You can power your home by plugging appliances into it. Here are some tips for using a portable generator safely:
- Make sure your generator is properly grounded.
- Keep the generator dry.
- Plug appliances directly into the generator.
- Make sure extension cords used with generators are rated for the load, free of cuts and worn insulation, and have three-pronged plugs.
- Do not overload the generator.
- Do not operate the generator in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Generators can quickly produce high levels of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
- Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries. Portable GFCIs require no tools to install and are available at prices ranging from $12 to $30.
- Start the generator first before connecting appliances.
Standby generators are installed directly to the house and are typically powered by natural gas or propane. These generators start automatically when the power goes out. Standby generators should be installed by a qualified electrician who must install a transfer switch to prevent backfeed. That device will automatically separate your home system from the utility system. We ask that you please notify us before directly wiring a generator into your home’s electrical circuit.
- Do not temporarily connect any generator directly to household wiring. Power from a generator can back-feed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including our linemen making repairs.
- It is recommended that you operate your generator for at least 10 minutes once a month to ensure that it is running properly. Keep the generator where it will be easily accessible and weatherproof. It is advisable to have enough fuel for at least 24 hours.
What is Backfeed?
Backfeed is when power flows in reverse. An alternate power source, usually a portable or permanent generator, feeds energy back through a home’s electrical system and meter and into the power lines.
The Dangers of Backfeeding
Backfeeding can cause serious bodily injury or even death not only to you or your neighbors but also to our linemen and other utility employees who may be conducting work on the power lines. If a generator is improperly connected, anyone in contact with the power line is at a high risk of electric shock or electrocution.
**If it is necessary to use a portable or permanent generator, manufacturer recommendations and specifications must be strictly followed. If there are any questions regarding the operation or installation of the portable generator, a qualified electrician should be immediately contacted to assist in installation and start-up activities. The generator should always be positioned outside the structure.**