Maybe This Will Spark Something

As a homeowner, you know that extended power outages can be a major problem. Not only can they disrupt your daily routines, but, in worst-case scenarios, they can also be life-threatening. 

Fortunately, having a portable generator on hand can help you weather the storm. Portable generators are a great solution for extended power outages because they provide a reliable source of energy. 

With the right generator, you can power your essential appliances and systems, such as your fridge, AC, and furnace. They can provide power to your home for days or even weeks at a time, if needed. 

Generate Safely

While portable generators can be a great solution to extended power outages, it's important to make sure you use them safely. Improperly connected generators can cause both property damage and loss of life.

Backfeeding is when you connect the generator to an outlet in your home, like the one you plug your dryer into. Never do this!

Backfeeding can cause electricity to go back up the line into the power utility's transformer and re-energize the power lines. And while they are trained to anticipate situations like this, utility workers sent to repair the lines run the risk of being electrocuted since they might incorrectly think the wires have no electricity on them.

Additionally, connecting a generator through one of the outlets in your home can lead to overloading and potential electrical fires.

Therefore, It's always a good idea to hire an electrician to inspect and properly install your generator. This will ensure that your generator is properly set up and that it won't cause any damage.

Connecting a Generator

The two main ways to properly connect a portable generator to a home are through a transfer switch and individual extension cords.

A transfer switch is a device that is installed between the main power source and the circuit breaker box in the home. This switch allows the user to switch between the power supply from the generator and the main power source. 

It is important to install the transfer switch according to local codes and to ensure that it is only used with a properly grounded generator. 

The other way to connect a portable generator to a home is by using individual extension cords. These cords are plugged into the generator and then into the appliances in the home that need power. 

This can be a more economical option than purchasing and having a transfer switch installed, but it is important to ensure that the cords are in good condition and that the generator is properly grounded.

For more information about using a backup power generator, contact a local professional.