Emergency generator safety is your responsibility.
For everyone's sake - yours, the Cooperative and its line crews - generators need to be isolated from the Cooperative's power lines. The National Electric Code (NEC) requires that a double throw switch be installed on your service where the standby generator is connected. When installed properly, the double throw switch ensures there is no "backfeed" when running your generator.
Before you buy a generator . . .
Determine the wattage output you need. Manufacturers rate the size of a generator in terms of wattage. The generator's wattage output should meet or exceed the total rated wattage of the equipment you plan to operate in the case of an outage.
Safety first
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Use only properly grounded extension cords and inspect them for proper size and previous damage.
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Never fill the generator's fuel tank while the engine is running. Gasoline can be ignited by a hot muffler or engine or an electrical spark.
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Allow the engine to cool completely before refueling and store fuel in proper containers.
Don't let a weather disaster turn into a personal disaster. If you need an emergency generator, purchase one now and have a transfer switch installed before the storm hits.
For more information on generators and installation of a transfer switch, call (888) 788-1551 or contact Ryan Wagner