Title: Reading Assignments
Course: WGF 107 DEVELOPMENT > Section: Content

Title | Do’s and Don’ts of Emergency Power Back-up
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Sub-Title | Some Basics of Portable Generators
Content
·        Do install and use your generator in absolute compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

·        Do verify codes, standards and requirements with the appropriate jurisdictions and assure that your generator and installation are in compliance. If you are unsure of complete compliance, use a PSE pre-screened contractor or a licensed contractor who will meet all the proper requirements.

·        Do follow National Electrical Code requirements for installing your generator and transfer switch.

·        Do operate a generator in a safe, open air environment defined by the product manufacturer. Burning fuels produce carbon monoxide (CO) gas, which is odorless, colorless and deadly.

·        Do install battery-operated or plug-in (with battery back-up) CO alarms in your home, following manufacturer’s instructions.

·        Do test CO alarms often and replace batteries when needed.

·        Do store liquid fuel in proper containers• and in a manner that meets fuel storage standards.

·        Do keep your generator dry. Operating the generator in snow or rain, or near water, can lead to death or serious injury.

·        Do have your generator serviced regularly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

·        Do call your local electrical energy provider and speak to a consumer advisor for more information.

DON’T…

·        Don’t connect a back-up generator to the wiring system of a residence or home business without an approved and inspected permanently installed, transfer switch. The transfer switch keeps your generator from sending power back through the utility grid and endangering the lives of electrical workers repairing power lines or citizens who may accidentally contact fallen lines. Also, the transfer switch protects your generator from damage when power is restored. Consult a licensed contractor for assistance.

·        Don’t refuel a hot engine• if your generator burns gasoline or diesel. Spilled fuel on a hot muffler can be disastrous. Let the generator cool while not operating for at least 15 minutes to minimize the danger of fire.

·        Don’t use an undersized extension cord with a generator. An extension cord that is not heavy enough can damage the equipment you are operating and cause a fire hazard. Both the length and diameter of wire affect its ability to carry an electrical load. The longer the extension cord and the larger the electrical load, the larger the diameter of the wire must be.

·        If you have any questions, get help from a licensed electrician or qualified supplier who can size the cord to match the equipment you want to operate.
Links/Uploads | STANDBY OR BACK-UP GENERATORS – Important information on selecting and safely installing a generator in your residence or home business https://www.washington.edu/emergency/files/documents/StandbyorBackupGenerators.pdf
Attributions | Image courtesy of Wikipedia – The Free Internet Encyclopedia Content Courtesy of Puget Sound Energy (Washington State)