Menu
Best reviewed Heating Repair Shreveport

7 Safety Tips for Generators to Keep Your Home Safe

On May 16th, 2022

Posted In:
Blog

Generators are an essential part of any home safety plan. It doesn't matter if the power goes out due to a storm or another reason; having a backup generator gives you peace of mind. However, a generator that isn't maintained with care can be dangerous.

Between the years 2005 and 2017, more than 900 people died from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by portable generators. Thousands more were also injured. This is one reason homeowners choose to have a professional install a backup generator to protect their homes.

Here are some tips for portable generator owners:

  • Know your Product: Generators can vary in their specifications. If your generator is unable to power the appliances it connects, you could have a meltdown that can cause a fire. You should not exceed the recommended wattage of your generator. Also, you should avoid overloading it.
  •  Safe Operation A generator should not be used inside your home, whether it is portable or stationary. Carbon monoxide fumes, which are byproducts of exhaust gas from gas machinery, are produced because most appliances use gas or diesel for their operation. Carbon monoxide, which is colorless and odorless, can prove to be very dangerous. It is possible that it will be too late if your home or place has become contaminated with carbon monoxide. Because carbon monoxide is heavier than air, it can't mix with it. It's difficult to get rid of it with fans or placing it next to an open window. So, it's best to keep your generator out of reach of children.  
  • Careful Fueling - It's crucial to fuel a generator properly. It is important to ensure that your generator does not run out of fuel while it is still running. This can cause irreparable damage. If you do not take precautions, refueling your generator could prove dangerous. You could be poisoned by fuel evaporation, and hot generators can cause a fire hazard.
  • Safe Storage & Handling Practices: Your generator's effectiveness is limited by your safety and use practices. Fuel fumes pose a serious safety risk and should be stored properly and handled with care. Fuel fumes are often more flammable than liquid fuel. Properly rated containers should be used to store fuel. Fuel should not be stored in plastic or glass containers by generator owners. Proper storage of fuel should be done in well-ventilated areas.
  • Prepare Precautionary Safety Guards: While we don't want to think about the worst, it is important to prepare for the worst. To protect yourself from fumes and fires, you should have carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. You can protect your family and home with a little preparation.
  • Use sturdy equipment and practice good maintenance Generators that are used outdoors can suffer from wear and tear due to exposure. If they are exposed to weathering or foot traction, cables and wires could also be damaged. An outdoor generator will require a strong cable. Outdoor cables can withstand heavy weather and be trampled on by foot traffic. The cable must also be capable of carrying the power you need between your home and appliance. Incompatible or poorly-fitting equipment can cause overheating, electrocution, fires, and other problems. This applies to the maintenance of your appliance as well as the equipment that it uses. Your generator cannot be safely operated if the cables, wires, or supporting equipment are damaged.
  • Avoid Backfeeding - Backfeeding refers to the practice of running the power cord into your home's electrical outlets. Backfeeding can cause damage to your generator and home. Backfeeding can also lead to an electrical loopback, which can be dangerous for anyone who is interacting with the grid outside. These things can be prevented by having portable generators with outlets and standing generators wired to your house. These safety guidelines are designed to keep your home safe.

KEY TAKEAWAYS TO GENERATOR SAFETY

Preparation and routine are the keys to safety when using a generator. You can make sure you follow safety precautions when using your generator by preparing your system for use and setting up a routine.

A standby generator is more convenient than a portable generator. It will take care of most of the work and will save you the hassle. The experts at AccuTemp Cooling & Heating will help you choose the right generator for your home and make sure that it is properly installed.

 To schedule a consultation or for more information about standby generators, call us at (318) 861-225.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Recent Posts

  • LOOKING FOR FAST, AFFORDABLE SERVICE?
    You've seen our trucks in action, as we proudly provide Shreveport's, Bossier City's, and Haughton's residents with the finest HVAC service. Our licensed and certified technicians are specially trained deliver the fastest and most efficient services, ensuring your comfort is our utmost priority.
    HomeAboutReviewsServicesBlogContact
    Privacy PolicyTerms & Conditions
    Copyright © 2017 Accutemp Cooling and Heating
    Site Designed By S3 Media Group
    facebooklinkedingoogle