Monday, May 2, 2011

Learn To Use A Generator Properly

By Scott Rodgers


Homeowners who are planning to get a generator for their house, need to consider many things. The thing to think upon is the size of the generator. It is decided on the basis of number of items that you want to run using your generator in an emergency. When you go to a store for getting a generator, note down all the specifications on a piece of paper so that you can conveniently make the selection.

Don't expect that you can run all the major appliances like air conditioning system, refrigerator etc at once using the generator. It is recommended that you run the most important appliance using your generator. For example, if any of your family members needs medical equipment that is powered, the generator must first take this into consideration. Make this your prime concern.

After picking out the correct generator to meet your needs, bring it home and read the instructions all the way through. Don't skip pages and don't take shortcuts. Generators can be lifesavers, but they can be dangerous, too.

Carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire are some of the bad consequences of using a generator carelessly. As all these hazards are serious, you should be careful when you switch on your generator and should have all the information related to it.

Certain safety tips should be kept in mind while using a generator. First thing is that you should never use a generator in a closed or partially enclosed space as that could lead to some carbon monoxide problems. Also as you can not smell or see this gas, so it is hard to detect and take any preventive measure.

It is good idea to buy a battery powered CO alarm as that tell you about the problem in advance and you can take the required steps. Keep on checking their batteries on a regular basis. It is very essential to keep the area dry where you have placed your generator. The electrical devices should be either connected directly or should be connected through an outdoor-rated extension cord (recommended by the manufacturer).

The cords of the generator should be checked for any signs of wear on regular basis. When the machine is hot, don't replace the fuel. Refilling should be done only when it cools down completely. Generators are in great demand in the areas that face constant power cut problems and in the emergency centers like hospitals.

A portable generator can be a real lifesaver in a big emergency. Unfortunately, these machines can also cause problems if users don't follow proper safety procedures. Before firing up a generator, make sure all instructions have been read and followed. A little bit of extra time can save a life later.




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