Generators are incredibly useful, providing backup power during outages and ensuring that your home or business can continue functioning even when the grid goes down. However, as with any powerful piece of equipment, generators come with safety risks.

Understanding how to operate and maintain your generator safely is crucial to protecting both your investment and the well-being of those around you.

In this blog post, the electrical experts at R Buck Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical explore key tips for keeping your generator safe and ensuring you and your family stay protected.

How To Keep Your Generator Safe

Proper generator maintenance is essential for ensuring safe and reliable operation. A well-maintained generator is less likely to malfunction, which can prevent accidents and extend the lifespan of your unit. Here are some tips you can use to keep your generator safe and in top working condition:

• Schedule regular maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and tune-ups to check for wear and tear, change the oil, and replace filters as needed.
• Keep it clean: Ensure the generator is free of dust, debris, and moisture, which can cause electrical shorts or damage to the engine.
• Store fuel properly: Use only the recommended fuel and store it in a cool, dry place away from the generator to reduce the risk of fire.
• Check the battery: Regularly inspect it for corrosion and ensure it’s fully charged to avoid startup failure during an outage.
• Test the system: Periodically run your generator to ensure it’s working. This also helps prevent fuel from gumming up the system.

How To Keep Yourself Safe From Your Generator

While generators are incredibly helpful, they can be dangerous if improperly handled. From carbon monoxide poisoning to electrical hazards, following safety guidelines to protect yourself and others is essential. Here are four key tips to ensure your safety when operating a generator:

Position Your Generator Properly

Always place your generator outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents. Generators produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that’s colorless and odorless. Operating a generator in an enclosed space or too close to your home can put you at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be lethal.

Avoid Overloading the Generator

Every generator has a maximum wattage capacity, and exceeding this limit can cause the generator to overheat or fail. Before using your generator, calculate the total wattage of the appliances and devices you plan to power and ensure it doesn’t exceed the generator’s capacity. Overloading can also lead to electrical fires or damage to your equipment.

Use Proper Extension Cords

Only use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords that are in good condition with your generator. These cords should be able to handle the power load and should have sufficient gauges to prevent overheating. Damaged or undersized cords can create fire hazards or cause electrocution.

Turn Off the Generator Safely

When shutting down your generator, make sure to turn off and unplug all connected appliances before switching it off. This helps prevent electrical surges, which can damage both the generator and your devices. Allow the generator to cool down before refueling or performing any maintenance.

Schedule Generator Services With R Buck Today

Generator safety is of the utmost importance, and by following these tips, you can protect yourself, your family, and your property from potential hazards. Regular maintenance and proper operation are key to ensuring that your generator is always ready during a power outage emergency.

For professional generator installation, repair, and maintenance, turn to the experts at R Buck. Our experienced team is dedicated to keeping your generator in top working order, giving you peace of mind during every blackout event.

Schedule generator services with our team to ensure the safety of your home or business by contacting us today.