Instructions for Linking a Generator to Your Home
In the event of a power outage, a home generator can be a lifesaver, providing backup power for essential appliances and devices. Here's a guide to help you understand the basics of home generators and how to safely use them.
Manufacturers and Types
The generators discussed in this article are manufactured by Newpower Generator GmbH, a company specializing in diesel, synchronous, mobile, marine, and specialized generators. Hatz, another manufacturer, develops and produces individual power generation solutions with industrial-grade single-cylinder engines for demanding applications.
Safety First
It's crucial to remember that generators that run on fuel emit hazardous fumes. Never operate a generator inside the house or near open windows or vents.
Delivering Backup Power
There are three safe ways to deliver backup power to a house: connecting directly to critical appliances, using a breaker interlock on the main electric panel, or installing a transfer switch subpanel.
Understanding Wattage, Volts, and Amps
When evaluating a home generator setup, understanding wattage, volts, and amps is key. Watts are the units of power an electric device needs to run, and vary per product. For example, an average LED bulb requires 10 watts, while a window air conditioner unit needs anywhere from 500 to 1,500 watts. Volts are the force of the electric current, most devices in a home run on either 120-volts or 240-volts. Amperes (Amps) are a unit of electrical current flow. The higher the amp, the larger the flow of power.
Choosing the Right Generator
Knowing how much power you need or want to have on hand before selecting a generator is important. You can do this by adding up the running wattage of all the devices you want to power at a single time. A mid-size generator offering 5,000 to 7,500 running watts should be able to power a few critical appliances such as a refrigerator, heat, and some lights.
Connection Methods
Using power cords is the simplest method to connect a generator to the house, but is the least expensive option and can limit power usage to essential items. On the other hand, a transfer switch setup allows for the isolation of critical circuits during an outage, preventing accidental power draw that could trip the generator. However, transfer switches, especially automatic ones, are costly and often require permits to install.
Safety Precautions
Safety is paramount when running a generator and connecting it to the house. Any method that connects to the main electric panel should be performed or checked by a licensed, professional electrician. Backfeeding, connecting a generator directly to the electric panel without isolating it from the grid power supply, is dangerous and illegal in many U.S. jurisdictions.
Planning Ahead
It's important to have a plan in place for when the power goes out, including knowing what breakers to turn on and marking them, and testing out the generator setup before an emergency happens. Always remember to consult your generator's manual or a licensed electrician for guidance.
Grounding Considerations
Check with your local township's ordinances to see if grounding is required. When plugging devices directly into a generator, grounding is not necessary, but when powering circuits in your home, you may need to use a grounding rod.
Miscellaneous Tips
- Electrical dryers should not be used to plug in a generator, as it can cause an electrical fire or explosion.
- If you draw more power than your generator can give, the generator may shut down to avoid damage. Turn off the devices that draw the most power and let the generator cool off before starting it again if it has overheated.
- The installation of a breaker interlock may require matching the interlock for the type of panel and may require special permits, depending on where you live.
- A portable home generator is a popular piece of gear for backup power during blackouts.
