This article originally appeared on BobVila .
After a long power outage at home, the importance of a consistent and reliable power supply can become a priority. For those living in an area that experiences regular storms and inclement weather, they may be part of nearly one-fifth of single-family homes in the United States . You have a home generator.
Proper maintenance of a generator is critical to being sure it will work the next time there is a power outage, but the problem with home generators is that blowing them up is not an option. Learning to maintain and operate a generator is not a snap, as it is all too easy to make mistakes that can damage the equipment or put your safety at risk. Without a careful approach, the consequences can be quite common errors in machine operation and maintenance.
Using the wrong extension cord
To stay safe and avoid an electricity crisis in the dark , read these tips for keeping a home generator operational at all times.
Most generators require a GFCI rated, grounded, outdoor extension cord that is at least 14 gauge. Without this cord, current could flow where it shouldn't, creating hazards such as fire or electrocution. Remember that old cables can be dangerous and that the length of the cable and the amperage of the load also play a key role in the cable's actual carrying capacity. What's the best rule of thumb to keep your generator running safely without blowing a fuse, getting electrocuted, or starting a fire? Always refer to the user manual.
Operate the generator indoors
Starting a generator from the garage or anywhere near the home is not recommended as the exhaust fumes contain deadly carbon monoxide . The ideal place to use a generator is outside in a dry place (to prevent moisture ingress), away from open doors and windows. At least 25 feet is generally safe. Allow at least 5 feet of total clearance for the machine.
If you're using a portable generator that could be kept in the garage, never tempt fate by turning it on there. A stationary generator must also be installed by professionals at a suitable location.
Use of poor quality fuel.
It can be tempting to save a few bucks on cheap fuel instead of premium, but it can damage the unit and cost a lot more in the long run. Problems such as clogged injectors with poor quality gases can encourage the growth of microorganisms and reduce a generator's performance.
If a generator has been idle for a few months, the old gasoline could go bad. To prevent this, run the engine regularly, drain the gas before using a stored generator, or add a fuel stabilizer to keep it fresh.
Improper switching on and off
Most generators follow similar basic steps to safely start and stop a generator. Before starting a generator, connect extension cords. Then add all the loads on the extender. To turn off the generator, disconnect the loads from the cable and then disconnect the cable from the generator. When all cables are disconnected, turn off the generator.
For safety reasons, be sure to follow the user manual on how to turn the generator on and off correctly to avoid damage or fatigue to the device.
Connect to a service panel
Connecting a generator directly to a home's electrical panel or to the emergency power supply can create a very dangerous electrical fire hazard. When power returns, it's possible that residual energy will travel back up the line. Not only could this illegal practice put you at risk, but neighbors and utility workers could also be injured by the high voltage.
Instead, it's best to have a licensed electrician install a manual transfer switch on any portable generator. This switch alternates the power source of the house between the mains and the generator.
Refuel while running
It is important to wait for the generator to cool before adding fuel. Refueling while the generator engine is running, or even when the engine is off but still hot, can cause a fire and explosion. Also, avoid charging a generator when its tank is empty. Fires can start instantly with just a small squirt of fuel near the spark plug or hot exhaust. Therefore always ensure that the generator is switched off and allowed to cool down before charging it again.
Run the Elements builder.
Never operate a generator in wet weather to avoid damage to the inverter or electric shock. Hazards arise when water enters electrical outlets or panels and shorts out the chassis. Generators should be operated at ground level in an open, dry area or under a generator cover (although they will technically work in rain, snow or sleet).
Neglect routine maintenance.
Regular and routine maintenance tasks come with owning the generator as it is quite a complex piece of equipment. Problems can arise over time by not following the manufacturer's recommendations or by fixing minor issues. At best, it can cause booting or sticking issues, and at worst, a total failure of the drive.
Regular maintenance includes checking and cleaning the oil and air filters, checking the batteries and running the generator at least once a month. Generators have to run more frequently during the cold season.
Hire a bad technician
When it comes to home generator maintenance and repairs, technical skills are sometimes required. At some point in your life, you will likely need specific skills and advanced knowledge to install, repair, or maintain your machine. This is where a trained technician comes into play.
It's a good idea to properly verify a technician's expertise and experience by researching them, seeing if they're certified by the Electric Generating Systems Association , asking them questions, and checking their credentials.
Maintain poor or non-existent records.
It is wise to really understand how a home generator is used, maintained and cared for and what the device can do for a home. This includes how much fuel you need, how the electricity is used and when it works. By knowing and keeping an eye on these things, you can ensure a constant amount of gas and generator capacity at all times. Failure to meet the minimums, or not at all, can easily result in wasted fuel or other costly mistakes.
Aucun commentaire:
Enregistrer un commentaire