Keeping Your
Portable Electric Generator Safe

For most homeowners, the biggest challenge in getting a portable electric generator lies not on the search for the best model or buying the right unit, but on how to maintain and keep the generator safe, functional, and efficient.

It is given that a portable type of electric generator, just like the others, offers benefits when disruption of power or unavailable supply of electricity affects your home. But, for the unit itself to continue bringing all the benefits that it has to offer, it has to be kept functional and well maintained, and this is where the importance of knowing the tips on keeping a portable electric generator safe comes in.

The first necessary step to take in ensuring the safety of your portable type of electric generator has something to do with connection. It is a rule of thumb for an electric generator to be kept unplugged from any direct home wiring. It is because connecting it directly to the home’s wiring can harm you and others, as the power it generates tends to flow directly to your home’s power lines, which is opposite from its usual flow direction.

So, when opting to connect this generator to the existing wiring in your home, make sure to ask an expert’s help. Look for a licensed electrical contractor to install it for you.

Aside from the idea of calling for an electrical contractor’s help when connection is concerned, it is also important not to plug an electric generator into any of the regular outlets available in your room. This can energize the so-called “dead” power lines, causing injuries and damages to others. Perhaps the best thing to do here is to have your individual appliances with outdoor-rated power cords connected to your generator’s appropriate receptacle outlet for the power load to be handled better.

Speaking of power cords, one should use only the right and proper cords needed for an electric type of generator. Avoid cords that are overloaded, as well as extension cords with worn shields or exposed wires to prevent fire.

Overloading this type of electric generator is also a big “no-no”. It can cause damage to your electronics and appliances. To avoid it, use your generator only when needed.

When the generator is running, keep fuel out of the room where the generator is set and never refuel it. Gasoline, as you may know, is flammable and should be stored away from any of the fuel-burning appliance or electronics. Also make sure that not even a drop of it falls on hot components to prevent ignition or fire. It is also safe to equip your room with a fire extinguisher.

When enough power is needed and the generator needs to be shut down, make sure first that all equipment powered by your electric generator are turned off. This is one of the fundamentals in shutting down any type of power generator.

Just keep all these things in mind to maintain and keep your electric generator in its best shape, while keeping yourself and others free from any injuries that a poor electrically powered generator can give. Also, reading the operation and installation manual and adhering to manufacturer’s instructions can help you obtain the best operation possible.