10 hurricane-related considerations for anyone who has a generator
If a storm zaps power, crank up the generator safely:
1. Keep a generator at least 10 feet from the opening to any building.
2. Do not run it inside your house or garage, even if you have doors and windows open. If you live in a multi-unit building, don’t run it on your balcony — it’s too close to your living areas and to your neighbors’ homes.
3. Never run a generator on grass, or on a metal surface. Use a concrete pad, and elevate the generator if you’re in a flood-prone area. Make sure the surface is dry before starting a generator, and always dry your hands before touching it.
4. Read your generator’s manual carefully. Follow all directions and pay close attention to the electrical load rating. Make sure the generator is grounded.
5. Use a heavy gauge, outdoor-rated extension cord to run into the house to power your refrigerator or other appliances. Be sure the extension cord can handle the wattage you send through it.
6. Do not connect the generator to your home wiring system, fuse box or circuit breaker unless you have an electrician install a transfer switch. If not correctly connected, the power can flow outside the house to the power lines and fatally injure workers trying to restore power.
7. Don’t exceed the recommended wattage. Don’t try to run high-wattage items like the air conditioner, an electric stove or hot water heater unless you're sure your generator can handle it.
8. Turn off all connected appliances before starting your generator. Let the unit reach operating speed before connecting anything. Start the largest electric appliance first, then plug in other items, one at a time.
9. Never refuel a generator while it is running or still hot.
10. Disconnect electrical loads before turning off the engine. Don’t allow the engine to run out of gas while appliances are connected.
This story was originally published October 4, 2016 at 10:26 AM with the headline "10 hurricane-related considerations for anyone who has a generator."