Portable generators have seemingly become the norm in Houston since the epic freeze of February. Our office has installed so many transfer switches since February for customers recovering from loss of power and anticipating more power loss during the upcoming hurricane season. With all the generator talk going on this year, we thought it pertinent to share some generator safety to help keep everyone safe in the event of any length of power loss.
Never operate a generator inside your home or in other enclosed space.
A generator is a temporary power source and should only be used as such.
Always have a transfer switch installed before connecting your generator to your house.
Make sure your generator is properly grounded and used with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI).
Use only extension cords that have a three-prong plug.
Always have a qualified electrician install your transfer switch and generator.
Never overload your generator.
You may ask, what is with the focus on transfer switches? Transfer switches are so essential because they keep not only your home safe, but also your neighbors and any workers in the area. Per the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI):
Transfer switches isolate utility power and generator power to prevent backfeeding, which can be deadly. Backfeed can follow wires and harm those nearby, including utility workers making repairs. Transfer switches also protect the home from electrical fires caused by short circuits and improper connections. Transfer switches should only be installed by a qualified electrician.
If you have any questions about generators or transfer switches, please give our office a call. We are here to keep all of our current and future customers safe, comfortable, prepared, and happy.