Portable Generator's Safety Issues!
A portable generator is a great temporary supply of power for lighting, refrigerators and freezers, sump pumps and other essential appliances. More and more Americans are finding themselves in the undesirable situation of having no power and in some extreme cases these power outages have lasted up to a month. For most of us, having to cope a day is bad enough let alone these extended times. Shopping for a portable generator has never been easier, with many units now being sold at discount and hardware stores, but buyer beware! Because they are very much the "in" thing to have these days, many folks are just rushing in without any idea on how to go about purchasing, let alone operating a portable generator. In selecting a portable generator, you first need to determine if it is going to run all the appliances that you wish to keep going during an outage. To do this, you first need to calculate the total number of watts as well as start-up wattage of units such as refrigerators and furnace blowers. Once this has been added together you can then go ahead and choose a portable generator that ideally exceeds your wattage needs by around 20%, and one that has a surge rating that once again exceeds your start-up needs also by around 20%.
Many people die or are seriously injured each year because of incorrect use of a portable generator. All units must now carry danger warnings which alert the user to the potential dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning (which is lethal), as well as shock or electrocution. Maintaining adequate ventilation is critical when using a portable generator. They should never be operated in a garage, veranda or enclosed building, and must be situated in a dry, outside area. Shocks can happen when you operate the portable generator in wet conditions with wet hands. You must follow the manufacturer's instructions when connecting your portable generator to either individual appliances or to your house. The correct size of extension cords are essential to handle the electric loads. Failure to do this could cause overheating and fire. It is also important that all appliances are disconnected before you begin operation to avoid overloading the unit. Once it is running you are able to turn them on one at a time. Some people wish to have their portable generator connected to their house - this must be done by a licensed electrical contractor. It is a very comforting feeling knowing that you have a portable generator on standby, particularly if you live in an area prone to storms, or power outages. There is a great feeling of helplessness when the power goes out, and all you can do is watch the contents of your refrigerator spoil, and check that the kerosene lamp has enough fuel, or light the candles. The portable generator has become an affordable item for most people. Even the small units will be able to keep at a minimum the food from spoiling and several lights on. Most people can survive with this. The extent to which you can power your house is only governed by the size of your pocket. |
