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4 Safety Precautions When Using a Backup Generator by Cleo Gib
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4 Safety Precautions When Using a Backup Generator |
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Home Improvement
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A backup generator can improve a miserable situation by providing power to a house without. Many areas of the country consistently have heavy storms that can knock power out for days. These homeowners will oftentimes purchase a backup generator to have at a moment's notice. In other areas, homeowners may need a generator only once and will elect to rent one. Since they are not familiar with generators, here are the top 4 safety precautions for a portable generator. Keep It from Rolling The first thing a homeowner should do before connecting anything to the generator is make sure it is secure and not going to accidentally move. In most cases, the generator will be left unattended for long periods of time, especially at night. It should be placed on a flat, solid surface like a patio or sidewalk. But, it should not be in the direct path of frequently traveled areas around the house. The wheels should be locked from moving. If there are no wheel locks, wedges or some other block should be used to keep the generator from moving. Well Ventilated Area The area should also be well ventilated to disperse the exhaust fumes. A backup generator is a combustion engine, creating electricity by burning gasoline or diesel. These fumes can be extremely toxic, just like the exhaust from a car. The generator should not be surrounded by walls or solid fences. The wind should be able to flow freely around the generator. The generator should also not be placed near windows or doors where the fumes can breeze into the house. Nothing Around Once a suitable location has been determined, the area should be kept free of debris and other items. These can create a tripping hazard for anyone monitoring or refueling the generator. The area should also be free of combustible materials like leaves and grass clippings. The heat generated by the generator can ignite the combustible material and start a fire. Load Max Each generator has a load capacity. This is the maximum amount of electricity it can handle. Too much electricity being drawn from the generator can cause the generator to constantly shut down. It can also cause the outlets to overheat and even short circuit appliances and other electrical equipment. Each electrical item will use a certain amount of electricity. Only necessary items should be plugged into the generator to limit how much electricity is pulled from it. A backup generator is a great tool to have in an emergency, but it has some serious safety concerns associated with it. These can range from personal injury to fire and electrocution. Reading and following the safety regulations for the generator can alleviate these concerns.
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