Connecting Your Standby Generator Safely

If you use a standby generator during power outages, remember that improper generator hookup can create serious problems in safety and service.

It is absolutely essential that a generator only be connected to the electric service through a double-pole, double-throw switch. The double-pole, double-throw switch is necessary to make it impossible to mistakenly connect the generator so it would feed electricity back on the power line. A feed-back would run the generator output backwards through the service transformer. This would increase the 120/240 volts to 7,200 volts and energize the power line. If a line crew was attempting to repair the line and had cut off all known power sources, they would be electrocuted. The double-pole, double-throw switch makes it impossible to have both the generator and the power supplier service connected at the same time. It simply opens one to close the other.

Standby generators require special attention to safety!

The major ice storm in January was the worst outage ever experienced by your cooperative. Since then, many Firelands Electric members and Firelands Propane customers have called to inquire about standby generators. Their questions range from what size generator is required to what is needed for a proper, safe installation.

Portable electric generators can be a good temporary source of power for heating, water and sump pumps, lights, refrigeration and cooking during electric outages. Some generators are larger and permanently installed. Powered by propane, they are totally automatic and can sense when the main power is lost and start up automatically, providing uninterrupted electric power.

If portable generators are improperly installed or operated, they can be deadly. People die needlessly every year in accidents that involve electric generators. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends the following portable electric generator safety precautions to avoid dangerous situations:

• NEVER operate the generator in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces, including homes, garages and basements. Generators very quickly produce high levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, deadly gas.
  
• Keep the generator dry. To protect it from moisture, operate on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure. Also, remember to "exercise" your generator weekly so it will be ready to go when you need it.
  
• Do not overload the generator. Your generator should be 20% larger than the total electric load you plan to connect and power up. Plug appliances directly into the generator, or use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated in watts or amps at least equal to the sum of the connected loads.
  
• Connecting a generator directly to your household wiring can be very hazardous since this can back feed along the power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including line workers making repairs. It is an absolute necessity that your generator, if it is connected to your home's wiring through the circuit breaker or fuse box, be connected with a "double-throw" transfer switch. This is not just a good idea or suggestion - IT IS THE LAW.
  
• Make sure fuel for your generator is stored safely, away from living areas, in properly labeled containers and away from fuel-burning appliances. And before refueling, always turn the generator off and let it cool down.
  
• Make sure your generator is properly grounded.
  
• Turn off all appliances powered by your generator before shutting it down.
  
• Follow the manufacturer's instructio

Complacency around portable electric generators is deadly. Following these safety precautions can help keep you and your family safe while you wait for the power to come back on.

For these and other electrical safety tips, visit the ESFI website at www.electrical-safety.org.

Source: ESFI

Firelands offers the new GenerLink device, which provides convenience and security to members using standby generators.