Generator Safety

There are several ways to connect your generator to your home’s wiring circuit. However, the generator must be electrically isolated from UPPCO’s distribution system.

• A double-throw transfer switch, or similarly approved isolation switch, must be installed to isolate the generator from UPPCO’s distribution system.
• Be sure to obtain the proper electric permits and have your installations inspected.
• The double-throw or throw over switch may be manually or automatically operated. Customer-owned generating equipment shall not operate in parallel with the Company’s system except under specific contract with the Company covering the conditions of such operation.

Safety Tips

• Never operate a generator in your home, garage, basement, or any other enclosed area.
• A generator should be at least 20 feet from enclosed areas, doors, windows, and fresh air intakes where exhaust fumes and carbon monoxide can enter the home. Proper ventilation is critical.
• A temporary canopy can be constructed over the portable generator to keep it dry. Leave adequate room for proper ventilation.
• Always read the owner’s manual carefully following all manufacturer instructions and precautions before starting and operating your generator.
• Overloading your generator can cause damage to the generator and any connected appliance or component.
  • By alternating your appliances, you can stay within your portable generator’s output.
• Start your generator before connecting appliances or equipment.
• Before shutting down your generator, turn off connected equipment.
• Most refrigerators and freezers are good for about 24 hours if the door is not opened. Beyond that, 4 to 6 hours of run time on a generator is usually adequate per day.
• Never plug a portable generator into a wall outlet; you could damage your home’s wiring
• When using a portable generator, connect appliances to the generator using flexible extension cords with current ratings adequate for the appliances being served.
• A double-throw transfer switch is not required when a portable generator serves appliances via a properly rated extension cord, i.e., refrigerators, freezers, space heaters, etc.

If you are installing a permanent standby generator system, consult an expert. Potential problems in addition to the need for a transfer switch include:

1. Ground Fault Interrupters (GFI’s) are installed on most portable generators.
2. Some generators are rated to only supply 240 volt or 120 volt loads and not both at the same time (120 / 240 rating-center tapped).

Care also needs to be taken in sizing generators. Normally, generators must be oversized to handle the in-rush of a starting motor. A generator would also need to be oversized if there is going to be a lot of electronic load on it. A special concern with electronic loads is the operation of the generator as it runs out of fuel. The internal voltage regulation may not be able to protect electronic equipment connected to the generator.