How to Safely Operate a Portable Generator

Portable generators are useful for a variety of situations. From camping trips to power outages, a portable generator is the perfect purchase. While there are many options on the market, SunSouth offers generators from brands such as Honda and John Deere.

Once you purchase your generator, it is important to know the proper way to operate and maintain your generator safely. Here are a few key tips you need to know:

Wattage

There is a maximum wattage for any portable generator that you buy. This is the maximum number of watts that the unit can handle at any given time. For example, you might have a generator with a maximum output of 2500 watts. This is the total number of Watts that the generator will be able to produce. It's crucial to know what Wattage your generator can handle before you use it, as this will dictate which appliances you can connect to it. As a result, you should be aware of the wattages of any items you want to use. If in doubt, seek advice from a professional before connecting any appliance to your portable generator. The incorrect wattage could harm your equipment and cause it to malfunction.

Test

You should always test your generator before putting it to use. Trying to start a generator in the middle of the day in your driveway is not the same as trying to start it during vacation or during an emergency. As a result, you'll want to conduct a number of dry runs to ensure that you understand how it operates in the event of an emergency.

It is critical to power up the generator on a regular basis in addition to testing it. It should not be left unattended for long periods of time. Instead, if you're using a gas generator, make sure to operate it every now and then to keep the engine lubricated. When you're done with the generator, don't put it away right away. These devices can grow extremely hot and cause burns.

One appliance at a time

It's critical that you don't try to plug in all of the appliances you're trying to power at the same time. Instead, insert each cable one at a time to avoid overloading your generator's circuits. It's worth noting that some generators come with rubber outlet covers for further protection. Furthermore, modern generators frequently provide a clear indication of how many watts the generator is powering.

Gas

If you're going to use a gas generator, make sure it's outside and away from the house. In the event of a power outage, connect the generator to any of your appliances with an extension cord, but do not bring it inside. Carbon monoxide is present in the exhaust of these generators. This gas is extremely hazardous and can kill you in a matter of minutes. One of the reasons it is so dangerous is because  you can't see it, taste it or even smell it. As such, you will have no idea whether you are exposing your family to this hazard. 

Storing your generator

When your generator isn't in use, ensure it's covered and adequately protected, and that it's kept in a cool, dry location. It's crucial to let the gadget cool down before storing it, but after it's turned off, you shouldn't keep it anywhere where it could be damaged by the environment. This could cause problems with your generator's operation, or even cause it to fail.

Now that you know the proper way to run and store your generator from SunSouth, you are ready for vacation or even for a power outage. If you are in the market for a new Honda or John Deere generator, visit your local SunSouth today to purchase yours!