A portable generator can be useful during a power interruption, but your life and the lives of others may depend on its safe operation.  When a power interruption occurs a portable generator can allow some normal activities to continue, but they should always be used with extreme caution. Here is a practical guide to avoid the potential dangers of using a generator. 

Read the generator Instructions / Owners Manual

Make sure you thoroughly read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions before use. 

Connect the generator correctly

Do not connect generators directly to your home’s wiring system, unless a licensed electrical contractor has installed special facilities, including a manual or automatic “changeover / transfer” switch. If a generator is connected incorrectly electricity can ‘backfeed’ along the power lines supplying your premises. This has the potential to injure or even kill people in neighbouring homes or staff working to restore your normal electricity supply. It can also severely damage your generator. Unless changeover switch facilities are available appliances should be plugged directly to the generator via a heavy duty extension cord. Sensitive equipment such as computers, televisions, and other communication devices should have surge protection installed to protect the equipment. 

Generator Location

Petrol or diesel powered generators produce toxic fumes so must only be operated in a well ventilated outdoor area away from open windows. 

Operating a Generator

Turn off the generator when re-fueling or when there are no operating appliances connected. To prevent the generator from overloading it is important to consider the generator’s rating (wattage). The total rating of appliances operated at the same time must be less than the rating of the generator. The appliance rating can be reduced by switching off some appliances while others are being used and using battery or gas operated appliances. The table below shows the typical rating of some common household appliances. The actual rating of appliances may vary depending on model type. 

Quick tips 

• Do not connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring system. An incorrectly connected generator has the potential to injure or kill. 

• Read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. 

• Make sure the generator is properly earthed. 

• Operate the generator outdoors away from windows. 

• Do not overload the generator. 

• Switch the generator off when refueling or not in use.