Usually, we buy the generator as an alternative power source during the power outage.
Yes, some of us buy different types of generators for camping, RV, or for an off-grid farmhouse to ensure the continuous power supply. Although different types of generators are available, the working principle is almost the same.
You could connect your portable generator and transfer the switch with at least a 10-gauge cord. If you use the generator for heavy appliances, you could use a 15-gauge cord. Then start the generator and switch-On the transfer board. Then you can run all the appliances based on the power supply of your generator.
If you want to learn the safest process of using a generator during a power outage, you could read the whole article. I have discussed elaborately the exact method which I follow.
Let’s get started.
How To Use A Generator During A Power Outage?
Most people use a portable inverter generator instead of a stationary generator during a short power outage. Though stationary generators are expensive, they are safe for everybody.
You could use the portable generator. But you should be careful while using the portable generator. Portable generators are light and easy to use. you just need to ensure some precautions. That’s all.
Before Using Generator
Before using your portable generator, you could follow these tips.
Don’t Run Your Generator In the Indoor House
It is strictly prohibited to run your generator inside your house. The generator engine produces carbon monoxide gas that is highly toxic to the human body.
Even you should not run the portable generator in the garage or the detached garage. That means you should run your generator in an open place.
Place your generator on high and dry ground
If your generator becomes wet, it will not start and run. So, you could place your generator on high and dry ground. Whether it is winter or summer, make sure that your generator becomes wet.
Place the generator at least 15 feet away from home
You should place the generator at least 15 feet away from the house. But don’t place the generator more than 100 feet away from home. Because the more distance you maintain the more wastage of electricity.
Use a generator cover to run in the rainy day
During the hurricane season, people run their generators inside of homes due to rain and storm. You could use a generator cover to place your generator on the outside.
Running the Generator
Use heavy-duty wire
You should use at least 10 gauge heavy-duty wire to connect the generator with other devices. If you want to run heavy appliances like a refrigerator, furnace, you should use the 12 gauge wire.
Use a transfer switch
Probably you know about back feeding. Actually, back feeding is illegal. You should install a transfer switch to prevent the backfire. Moreover, this is the safest and standard practice to keep all your appliances safe.
Switch off all the appliances before starting the generator
You should switch all of your appliances before starting the generator. If you have a transfer switch panel, it is very easy to main. Just switch off the transfer panel. When you start your generator, then you could pull the switch to the generator field.
refuel your generator
Don’t refuel your generator while it is running or just after stopping the generator. Allow at least some time to cool down the engine. Then you should refuel it.
Store extra fuel
a gas generator consumes .8 -2-gallon gas usually. It depends on the power of the generator. so, during a hurricane or ice storm, you should store extra gas in your generator. You could store the gas cylinder in your garage or under a dry and cool shed. Read this article to learn more about How Long Can You Run your Generator Continuously without any issue.
Shutting Down The Generator
Before shutting down the generator, you should unplug all of your appliances. If you have a transfer switch, first pull the switch in the middle position, I mean turn off the electricity. Then you should shut down the generator.
Storing the generator
Before storing the gasoline generator, you should empty the gas from the engine. On the other hand, for a diesel generator, you should keep some fuel in the engine.
Here is a detailed discussion of why you should run your generator without gas before storing it.
can you run a generator during a storm?
You should not run the generator during a hurricane. Yes, you should run your generator just after the hurricane. Since you can not run your generator inside of your home for safety purposes, there is no chance of placing your generator outside during a heavy storm.
Final Thoughts
A generator is an excellent alternative source of power. It makes our life easier and more comfortable. Using a Portable generator is real fun. You can easily handle it without any hassle. Since it produces electricity, you should take some safety measures.
If you follow the tips that I mentioned earlier in this post, you can easily operate a portable generator safely. Share your thoughts in the comment box.
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