Time to think about starting up or replacing your generators

Have you checked your generator lately?  If not, now is the time! Pull it out of storage, get it maintained, start it up and let it run for a couple of minutes.   Is it running as smoothly as it should?  Or maybe it’s not running at all…. If not, below are a couple of generator maintenance options:

One it's running, maintaining your generator is important if you want to ensure you have power when you need it.  Run your generator for 20 minutes a month to help charge the battery, lubricate the engine and burn off moisture. While you're running it, plug things in and test to make sure your generator can run the appliances you will need in an emergency. Be sure to change the filters -- you may need to consult your owner's manual to do this properly, but in most cases, change paper filters when they are visibly dirty, clean foam filters with soapy water and re-oil them with foam filter oil, and tap out any solid bits from the filter cup at the fuel opening. Finally, check to make sure you have enough fuel in storage to run your generator. Fuel stabilizers can be used to keep your gasoline fresh for up to a year. 

Are you thinking of purchasing a generator or upgrading the one you currently have? Don’t hesitate! We all know, prices today will be much cheaper than it would be after our first named depression. Please visit:

Using Portable Generators Safely

In the event of a power outage at your home, an emergency generator could be your saving grace. However, emergency generators can also be extremely dangerous if used improperly. To ensure that your household remains protected while using an emergency generator, consider implementing these helpful safety recommendations.

• Do not run gasoline engines in an enclosed area (not even in a garage) because they produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas that can cause death.
• Check the oil level in the engine on a regular basis, especially before using.
• Before refueling, let the engine cool completely.
• Place your generator a safe distance away from other structures, as the engine can get hot.
• Make sure that your generator stays dry to prevent water damage and electrical hazards.
• Do not use a generator with appliances that have gotten wet.
• Watch out for a voltage drop when using an extension cord that is too long or when using a cord with a wire size that is too small.
• Connect generators directly into appliances but never directly into a home electrical supply box.
• Do not overload a generator. This can cause overheating which creates a fire hazard.
• Ground the generator based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Select the appropriate outlet with the correct voltage.
• Start running the generator before turning on the AC circuit or before plugging in the appliance.

Calculate your Risks
The capacity of a generator is calculated in watts. For instance, you may own a 2,000-watt generator. Therefore, if you have an appliance that requires 120 volts and uses 10 amps, the appliance will require 1,200 watts of power. By doing this calculation, you can determine what appliances can safely run on your generator based on its wattage rating. 

The combination of the internal combustion engine and the power that it generates creates two unique sets of hazards, which need to be accounted for during operation.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, highly toxic gas that is heavily concentrated in the exhaust of fuel-powered engines. In poorly ventilated areas, generator use can result in fatal CO poisoning. Remember the following:

• Make sure the generator has three to four feet of open space around it while running.
• Never use a generator indoors or in other enclosed spaces. Even in a garage with windows and doors open, CO can build up to unsafe levels.
• When outside, never place a generator by windows, doors or air intakes where CO could enter inside spaces.
• If you begin to feel the effects of CO poisoning—dizziness, headache, nausea, tiredness—get to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention. Do not reenter the area until it can be verified safe by properly trained and equipped personnel.

Fire Hazards
Generators become very hot while running and can remain hot for some time after they’re turned off. Remember the following: Shut down and allow the generator to cool before refueling.

• Store fuel at a safe distance from running generators and other ignition sources.
• Only transport and store fuel in containers designed and designated for the purpose.