Top Rated Portable Generators

Having a portable power generator on hand when you lose power can seem like a lifesaver. During these times, a quality portable power generator will keep your most important appliances and other devices operating normally. While generators can be extremely beneficial when encountering power outages, using them properly is important to ensure safety for you and potentially your family as well.

Product Instructions

Before proceeding any further, reading the product manual first is highly advised. Doing so will give you an understanding of what to do, and perhaps more importantly what not to do. Consult an electrician if the technical details outlined are unclear to you. This may mean spending more money to get the portable power generator installed, but the cost is worth it to ensure safety. Put the product manual in a place that you will not forget, as you may need to look through it again if problems should occur.

CO Precautions

Emission of carbon dioxide is one of the chief concerns about generators. You can die from it, and since it has no smell or color you will not even know that it’s around you. To avoid getting exposed to carbon monoxide, it’s important to use a well ventilated area when using a portable power generator. This means that it shouldn’t be placed in your garage or home, while also keeping it away from windows on your neighbor’s house. If not, the consequences could be severe.

Connections

The generator should not be connected to your house’s wiring. An electrical back feed could result if this is done and possibly kill a electrical repair man working on the power lines. Instead, connect the generator directly to the appliances. Another option is to use an extension cord for the outdoors. To establish a connection directly, a licensed electrician should be contacted. An electrician would prevent a back feed from occurring by using a transfer switch.

Wattage

The wattage of the portable power generator should be checked before buying. This will tell you what the capabilities of the generator are. Only several appliances should be powered by a portable power generator at a time. They are not built to be a power source for everything in your home. An overload can occur if the portable power generator is used for too many appliances, which can cause damages or fires. If you have many appliances that need to be powered, then an alternative is to use the generator for several appliances at a time, then rotate.

Great emphasis should be placed on safety when using portable power generators. Always exercise caution in order to keep you and your family safe.