Protection From Carbon Monoxide
Using a generator in an enclosed space - even a partially enclosed one
- is largely considered to be a dangerous practice. Since generators can
potentially produce significant levels of carbon monoxide with haste, they need
a good amount of clearance room in order to function safely. It’s important for
homeowners to keep in mind that they won’t be able to see or smell CO, which
means that the threat is largely invisible and undetectable. Exhaust fumes are
the clearest indicator of carbon monoxide, though they aren’t always produced
in cases of a buildup. If a homeowner ever feels weak or dizzy while using
their generator, it’s critical that they get themselves to fresh air without
delay. The CO that generators put out can potentially lead to full incapacitation
and even death relatively quickly.
To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide buildup, it’s recommended that
homeowners never use their generator indoors, which includes garages, crawl
spaces, and basements. Even ventilated indoor areas won’t prevent the CO from
accumulating in the home. Homeowners should follow the instructions that were
given to them when they received the generator, and use this information to
determine the best location for the unit.
This location should be clear from
windows, doors, and vents that would provide an avenue for the CO to enter the
home. Additionally, it’s advised that homeowners use battery-operated or
plug-in CO alarms with a battery backup. The CO alarms should be regularly
tested and the batteries should be replaced consistently.
Protection From Electrical Outbursts
For the sake of preventing electrical hazards, it’s advised that
generators always be kept dry and are turned off in all rainy or excessively
humid weather conditions. In order to protect the unit from intaking any
moisture, homeowners should operate it on a dry surface, and should only use
dry hands when working with it.
Homeowners should particularly note never to
plug the generator directly into a wall outlet in order to power the house
wiring. This is known as ‘backfeeding’, which is an incredibly hazardous
practice that comes with an increased electrocution risk to workers and
neighbors using the same utility transformers.
Keeping Fire Hazards at Bay
Homeowners should always turn the generator off and allow it to cool
down before refueling it, since any gasoline spilled over the hot engine can
potentially lead to an ignition. Additionally, the fuel for the generator
should never be stored in the home. Flammable liquids such as propane,
gasoline, and kerosine need to be properly labeled and stored outside in safe,
non-glass containers.
Homeowners should never store them in proximity to a
fuel-burning appliance, like a natural gas water heater. For more information
on power generator safety tips, it’s advised that homeowners contact their
preferred heating and air conditioning Leesburg service provider.
