When used and maintained correctly, generators offer significant convenience during power outages. Before purchasing backup generation, assess your backup power requirements to choose the appropriate size. List the essential appliances and devices you need to run during an outage and calculate their total wattage. Keep in mind, it’s likely that only a small portion of your home will need to be heated during a winter power outage, such as the living room.
There are 2 types of set-ups that can take place with a generator. The first type is a stationary generator with a transfer switch that automatically detects power loss and seamlessly switches your home or business to backup power, ensuring uninterrupted electricity. This switch, which keeps your house circuits separate from Wasco Electric’s, should be installed by a professional. Failure to do so may result in damage to the generator.
How a generator with an automatic switch works:
- Your power goes out.
- Your generator detects the outage.
- The transfer switch activates the generator, and electricity is provided to your home until service is restored by the utility.
In contrast, a generator without a transfer switch – also called a portable generator, requires manual connection, meaning you must plug it in and start it yourself when an outage occurs. While a transfer switch offers convenience and safety by preventing backfeeding into the grid, a manually connected generator can be a more cost-effective backup power solution.
How a portable generator works:
- Your power goes out.
- You plug in and start your generator – ensuring it is in a well-ventilated area outside of the home.
- Use a heavy-duty extension cord to connect electric appliances to the outlet on the generator. Start the generator first before connecting appliances.
Generator Safety Tips
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- Always place generators outdoors and in a well-ventilated area outside of the home, away from your garage, doors, windows, and vents. The carbon monoxide (CO) generated is deadly.
- Install battery-operated CO monitors near bedrooms to prevent poisoning.
- Never plug a generator directly into an electrical outlet, as this can cause a dangerous backfeed to power lines.
- A Quick Guide to Generators (PDF)