Generators can feed houses via either a drop cord or a transfer switch tied into the electric panel. A transfer switch’s purpose is to safely connect to either the utility company’s power or the generator’s power supply. The switch generally has three positions; live power, off and generator power. This prevents power from your generator being sent back down the line to harm the utility worker who is trying to fix your line. If that did happen, there’s a good chance that you could severely injure or even kill a lineman. A transfer switch that is installed properly will eliminate this danger.
Remember to have good ventilation wherever you run a generator. Running it inside a closed garage could cause carbon monoxide gas emissions to enter your home, which could be deadly.
When filling the generator with fuel, turn the unit off and use caution not to spill any of it. Fuels are very flammable and the generator may be very hot from running, which could cause a fire. Being without power isn’t any fun, but being prepared, knowing what to do and having the right items in place will make it a little more bearable.
