Standby Generators

Be sure to install and maintain them properly and understand the hazards

Emergency standby generators can supply electricity to your home or business during a power outage. Operating a standby generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage, but only if it is properly installed and maintained. Understand the hazards, and familiarize yourself with these important safety precautions before you buy or begin to use one.

Improper installation and use of standby generators may violate state or local electrical codes and can severely endanger those working to restore your power. During power outages, our crews work from maps to locate disconnects. Improperly connected generators may re-energize lines that otherwise would be off, creating "back feed." Back feed occurs when electric power is introduced to the utility's power lines from generators with faulty connections. Lines expected to be de-energized are in fact live, and could potentially electrocute crew members attempting to make repairs.

There are two basic types of standby generators:

• Portable, gasoline-powered generators – you can purchase a small, portable, gasoline-powered outdoors unit and run extension cords from the generator directly to appliances such as lamps, refrigerator or electric space heater. Always run such generators outside where there is adequate ventilation, never inside the house.
• Generators that are permanently connected to your main electrical supply – larger backup generators can be connected by licensed electricians to a building's main wiring panel, then used during electric service outages to power essential medical devices, furnaces, air conditioners, or well pumps for those not connected to a municipal water supply. To hook up this kind of generator, you must hire a licensed electrician to install a double-throw transfer switch with a mechanical interlock and a visible open between our service lines and the generator, to ensure the generator cannot "back feed" into the neighborhood grid. The electrician will make sure the setup meets national, state and local electrical codes and ensure compatibility with our power system.

Always follow all manufacturer's safety instructions when using a home backup generator.

Select the right size generator to meet your needs

Standby generators are available in a range of sizes, to meet specific power requirements. It is important to choose one that is sized to meet your needs. Your vendor, retailer or electrician can help you determine what size generator is most suitable for your home or business and whether the equipment or appliances you want connected to your generator can be operated safely.