Dos and Don'ts for operating home generators
- Jan 21
- 1 min read
Do's
Operate Outdoors: Place at least 20 feet away from your home, doors, windows, and vents to prevent CO buildup.
Install carbon monoxide (CO) Alarms: Have working, battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
Keep it Dry: Run on a dry surface under an open canopy, and keep it away from rain or flooding.
Use Proper Cords: Use heavy-duty, grounded extension cords, checking for damage first.
Connect Appliances Correctly: Plug appliances directly into the generator or use a transfer switch for hardwired connections.
Cool Down: Turn off the generator and let it cool for 20 minutes before refueling.
Ground It: Ensure the generator is properly grounded.
Don'ts
Never Indoors: Do not run generators inside your home, garage, basement, or shed.
No Direct Wiring: Don't connect to your home's wiring without a proper transfer switch to avoid electrocuting utility workers.
Don't Overload: Avoid plugging in too many appliances; check generator capacity.
Don't Refuel Hot: Never add fuel to a hot generator; it can ignite.
Don't Open Windows: Keep windows and doors closed while the generator runs.
During Power Return
Unplug Devices: Unplug appliances and turn off the generator before power is restored.
Wait for Stability: Wait for power to stabilize before reconnecting essential devices gradually.
