(Last Updated On: July 29, 2018)

Keeping Portable Generators Safe to Use

Its important keeping portable generators safe to use. Although operating a portable generator is relatively easy, there are many people that do not do it in a safe manner. When portable generators are not used in a safe manner the user runs a risk of damage to the portable generator and their home as well as the possibility of personal injury or even death. Reading the instruction manual provides users with valuable information about safely using the portable generator.

Portable generators need proper ventilation in order to be used safely. It is best if they are placed in a large area that has good air flow. Proper ventilation has two purposes. The first is to be sure that the exhaust does not pose a health risk. In order to produce electricity, portable generators burn fuel. As a result of the fuel being burned, carbon monoxide is produced. This toxic gas is not easily detected and can quickly accumulate if the portable generator is located in an area that is enclosed, such as a garage.

Simply opening a window is not always an adequate way to ventilate the area and could lead to disastrous results. The second purpose of proper ventilation is to be sure that the portable generator has a constant supply of oxygen in order to work properly. Therefore, it is necessary to make sure that the portable generator is several feet away from anything that could obstruct its air flow so that it does not overheat and catch on fire.

Considering the fact that a portable generator is used to produce electricity, there is always a risk of receiving shocks or being electrocuted if it is not used properly. In order to keep it safe to use, the portable generator needs to be kept away from any source of water because being wet could increase the chances of bodily harm.

Even turning on or off a portable generator with wet hands or while standing in water can cause the person to be shocked or electrocuted. When it is absolutely necessary to run a portable generator when it is raining, it should be kept dry with some type of waterproof canopy that still allows for proper ventilation. It is also recommended that a ground fault circuit interrupter is used so that the portable generator will automatically shut off if electricity deviates from the proper path through the electrical wiring. If the portable generator is already wet, it should not be turned on until it is thoroughly dried out and checked by an electrician that is trained in evaluating wet generators.

Finally, in order to keep it safe to operate, a portable generator needs to be properly grounded. It should also not be overloaded by trying to use it to power more than it is capable of handling. When plugging anything into a portable generator it is important to make sure that the electrical cords are not worn out or frayed and any extension cords are properly grounded and capable of handling the wattage that will be transmitted from the portable generator.

I think you must know by now why it’s vital for keeping portable generators safe to use.