Portable generators are excellent for home use and for various job settings. Portable generators can be used in various situations and locations because they are light, don’t use much fuel, and are easy to transport. When choosing and operating a portable generator, it is really important that you take every safety precaution as they can be dangerous if not used properly. From making sure that you don’t overload the generator to storing the fuel safely, there are various steps which you need to take.
To ensure that no one has an unfortunate accident, here is how to safely use a portable generator.
1. Choose the Right Power Capability
The first thing you need to do in order to use a portable generator safely is to choose the right power capability for your needs. This is very important because overloading a generator too near to its capacity can cause it to overheat or malfunction which can be potentially dangerous. There are different power capacities with different generators so before you buy one, pay careful attention to whether it will be enough to power everything you want to use.
2. Make Sure the Generator is Set Up Correctly
Whether you want to use your portable generator to provide power for your house or you want to use it at a business location, it is very important that you set it up correctly. The potential danger to your family, employees or customers can be great if you do not know what you are doing when setting up the generator. Different models vary in how difficult they are to install so always check the instructions carefully and speak to the manufacturer or the shop you bought the generator if you don’t know what to do. All generator providers will show you how to use your portable generator if you don’t know so make sure to ask.
3. Add Extra Safety Features to the Setup
In addition, it is important that you make use of any extra safety parts or features which can further reduce any risks of using your new generator. One easy thing you can do is to The experts at generatorgrid.com/blog/transfer-switch/ explain that one thing you can do is to wire a transfer switch between your generator and your electricity mains. This will ensure that your generator is in compliance with the electric code so that the chance of an electrocution is reduced. Many portable generators these days come with a transfer switch which you can wire yourself, just make sure that you turn off the mains power and that you know what you are doing before you start fiddling.
4. Use the Portable Generator in the Right Conditions
Different generators vary when it comes to the ideal conditions to use them. Like any electrical device, it is rarely advisable to use your portable generator in wet conditions. While some units are waterproof, it is still better to avoid the generator from overexposure to water. You also should aim for a space that is well ventilated and isn’t too hot or humid to stop the generator from overheating as this can both damage the engine and could be potentially dangerous. Carbon monoxide poisoning is just one problem which can arise from using your generator in the wrong conditions.
5. Choose the Right Fuel and Store it Correctly
There are three main options when it comes to fuel; gasoline, natural gas, and diesel. They all have their benefits, but in terms of safety, diesel generators are usually considered to be the best. Diesel engines are simpler than the other two and so there are less things which can potentially go wrong.
6. Store and Handle the Fuel Safely
All fuels need to be handled and stored correctly and so the first thing you need to do is to make sure that you have read the relevant Fuel Data Safety Sheet for whichever fuel you are using. This is a document that fuel manufacturers produce which will tell you everything you need to know about your fuel such as storage protocols, potential risks, and how to handle and store the fuel safely. These Fuel Safety Data Sheets can be lengthy and overly technical but make sure you take note of the left-hand side of the sheet in particular, as there you will find the optimum conditions to store the fuel safely.
Portable generators are great for lots of different uses but it is so important that you take the right safety measures. Make sure that your generator has enough power capabilities but that you don’t overload. Set the generator up correctly, wire in a transfer switch, and always store the fuel correctly. If you follow these safety tips you will be able to use your portable generator for years without any issues.
