Operating the Generac Generators Responsibly

Generators provide excellent peace of mind, allowing you to power your home even if the electrical grid goes down. However, following certain safety protocols is paramount to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and other hazards. Learn some essential generator safety tips for Generac units to avoid putting your home and family at risk.

The Dangers of Irresponsible Generator Use

Generators pose significant risks if not used correctly. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, nearly 80 percent of the 931 carbon monoxide deaths that occurred from 1999 to 2012 were associated with generators. Two-thirds of these fatalities occurred when a generator was placed inside an enclosed living area, such as a basement or shed. Fires, burns, and electrocution are other hazards associated with the irresponsible operation of Generac generators.

Best Practices for Using Generac Generators

While the hazards are concerning, you can keep your home and family safe with proper operation of Generac backup power systems.

Placement and Ventilation Tips

• Only operate your generator outdoors, at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents, to prevent carbon monoxide buildup inside your home.
• Ensure 3 to 4 feet of clearance above and around the generator. Proper ventilation helps prevent overheating and allows exhaust gases to dissipate safely.

Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Install battery-operated or plug-in CO alarms with a battery backup on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.
• If you experience symptoms of CO poisoning, such as dizziness, headaches, or nausea, move to fresh air immediately and call 911.

Ensuring Electrical Safety

• Have a licensed electrician install your home generator to ensure your setup is safe and code-compliant.
• Do not connect your generator directly to household wiring without an appropriate transfer switch. This switch prevents backfeeding, which can be fatal to utility workers repairing power lines.
• Use grounded cords rated for the load and equipped with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrical shocks and fires.
• Start and stop your generator without any electrical loads connected to avoid surges that can damage the generator and connected appliances.

Proper Generator Use and Maintenance

• Keep the generator dry; do not operate it in wet conditions. If needed, protect the generator with a canopy.
• Turn off the generator and let the engine cool before refueling. Spilled fuel on hot engine parts can ignite and cause fires.
• Regularly inspect the oil level, air filter, and spark plugs.
• Perform load tests periodically to ensure the generator can handle the power requirements.
• Adhere to the maintenance schedule provided by Generac, which typically involves professional servicing every six to 12 months.

Schedule Generator Services in the Tri-State Area

Seidel Electric Inc. would be happy to answer any questions about these generator usage guidelines for Generac units. As an authorized reseller of Generac generators, we know these systems inside and out. Whether you need installation, maintenance, or repairs, our knowledgeable and experienced electricians are here to help. Contact us at (908) 362-6191 for all your generator needs in Blairstown, NJ, and the Tri-State Area.