If you’ve had Stashluk to your home to do a maintenance check on your portable home generators in Summit, NJ, you know there is much more to running your generator than simply starting it. By taking a few important precautions you can ensure that you are operating your generator in a safe manner and that any dangers to you or your family are minimized.
If you have any doubts about how to maintain and properly operate your portable generator, give Stashluk a call. We’ll make sure it’s in good working order and answer any questions you have about proper operation and maintenance. At a minimum, always check your manufacturer’s instructions and follow any precautions that are provided.
Safe portable generator operation begins with ample ventilation
As with any machine or system that runs on fuel, the exhaust from the unit is one of the primary hazards. Be sure to check the batteries in the CO detectors in your home. Portable generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless and colorless gas that is a silent killer. That’s why you should never position a running generator in an enclosed space or indoors, such as in your basement or garage, or outside near a window or doorway. If you begin to feel sick or dizzy leave the house immediately for fresh air. Opening doors or windows will not provide enough ventilation to make it safe to remain in your home.
Assuming you’ve positioned your portable generator in a safe place where it can operate without posing a danger to your home or family, here are five more safety measures you should be aware of before, during and after operation:
1. Stay dry to stay safe
We’ve all had it with this cold, dreary, wet weather. In the event you need to pull out your portable generator one last time this season, keep these important safety tips in mind.
NEVER run a portable generator in the rain. “What? But I only use my generator in crummy weather!” That may be true, but a generator that becomes wet is an electrocution hazard. The same goes for touching a generator with your wet hands. Be sure that your generator is on a dry surface and that it is protected from the rain by some kind of overhead protection, allowing plenty of clearance for the generator to operate in a safe manner.
2. Turn the generator off before refueling
Before refueling, turn off a gasoline-powered generator and let it cool. Any fuel that comes in contact with a hot generator motor can ignite a fire which can damage your generator as well as any structures nearby that can become engulfed in flames. Make sure you use the proper grade fuel as described in your generator’s manual. Your local town may restrict the amount of fuel you can keep on hand in your home. You can check with your local fire department to find out how much is acceptable. Fuel must be stored in the appropriate containers and away from any fuel-burning appliances such as gas-powered clothes dryers.
3. Avoid electrical hazards, call Stashluk to install a transfer switch
The safest way to power parts of your home with a portable generator is with the installation of a transfer switch. This connects the generator to your circuit panel and lets you power hardwired appliances. Call Stashluk for proper installation.
4. Check extension cords
Plug appliances directly into the generator with extension cords that are outdoor-rated and at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads in watts or amps. The plugs should have three prongs (including a grounding pin). You’ll also want to be sure there is no exposed wire from cuts or tears to the outer insulation.
5. Stagger appliances
Depending on the size and horsepower of your portable generator unit, for the safest operation and to prevent overloads you may need to alternate how you power your high draw appliances. Even a portable generator that’s properly connected can become overloaded and overheated. Stashluk can help you determine how many appliances, entertainment units and technology components can be connected simultaneously.
We are the Generator Experts!
Stashluk installs and services whole house automatic standby generators in addition to portable generators available for purchase. Our automatic backup generators connect to your utility’s natural gas supply and are a permanent installation outside of your home. If/when your power goes off due to a hurricane, violent storm, blown transformer or any other reason, within 20 seconds the power is restored by your standby generator. No need to flip any switches.
For complete peace of mind, choose the Stashluk annual safety check and never have to worry about the preparedness of your generator again. We’ll check your automatic standby generator and all its parts and systems and notify you if any repairs or replacement parts are needed. Stashluk’s annual inspection is the best way to find trouble spots before more expensive repairs are needed.
Stay safe! Call Stashluk…
At Stashluk, we know how to assess your auxiliary power needs and suggest the right unit for your home and family. We’ll show you how to operate your unit safely, and our annual inspection plan will give you peace of mind that everything is operating in tip-top shape. Give us a call at 908.277.6200 and we’ll help you choose the best model for your needs and budget.
