4 Tips for Safely Using Your Home Generator

Standby generators protect households from the hazards that come with power outages. However, homeowners should be aware of the importance of generator safety before having them installed.

Since they’re complex devices with several interconnected components, there are potential safety risks that come from using a generator haphazardly or neglecting to follow essential guidelines. We’ll outline four tips for safely using your home generator to ensure it delivers peak performance.

Read Your Owner’s Manual

Your home generator’s owner’s manual contains all the information you need to use it safely and effectively. It will guide you through setup, operation, and maintenance procedures. Missing out on these crucial details can lead to improper usage, which may cause damage or pose safety risks.

Generators don’t come in one-size-fits-all designs, so what works for one might not work for another. Following the guidance tailored to your specific machine will enhance its performance and longevity.

Understand Possible Hazards

Generators, while incredibly useful, come with their own set of hazards. One of the most significant risks is carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Always operate your generator outdoors and away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent the gas from entering your home.

Another potential hazard is electric shock. Generators produce significant electrical power, and mishandling them can result in serious injury. Make sure to properly ground your generator, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for connecting and disconnecting appliances.

Protect It While It’s Not in Use

When your home generator isn’t in use, it needs protection from the elements. If you live in an area prone to extreme weather conditions, consider taking protective measures, such as investing in a quality cover designed for your generator model. This will shield it from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors that could degrade its components over time.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Maintenance is key to extending your generator’s lifespan and ensuring it operates properly in the event of an outage. Certain tasks, such as checking fuel levels and removing obstructions around the exhaust, are doable for homeowners. However, hiring professionals for generator servicing is beneficial and necessary at times, especially if your generator has broken components.

Technicians can spot potential issues they might miss during routine checks, preventing small problems from becoming costly repairs. They’re also valuable resources whenever you have questions or concerns about your standby generator and its performance.

Homeowners searching for home generator maintenance services can rely on NW Generator Pros for all their servicing and repair needs. We also offer emergency generator repair to quickly prepare households for storms and outages. Contact us today to learn more about the importance of generator safety and maintenance.