Generator Safety
Before installing any type of standby or distributed generation, whether it is stand-alone or connected to the grid, it is important to understand the safety requirements.
Standby Generator
Portable standby generators, when used properly, can provide an alternative power source. However, they can create electrical shock and fire hazards if connected or used incorrectly. In addition, you should never operate a generator inside your home or garage. Generators produce carbon monoxide, and if used indoors will cause a build-up of fatal fumes - fans or open windows and doors won't provide enough fresh air to keep you and your family safe.
If You Are Considering Buying a Portable Standby Generator
Clearly understand your electricity requirements to ensure the unit is the correct size and voltage for your application.
Purchase the appropriate generator accessories, including:
an approved transfer device or switch.
a properly sized connector cord and plugs.
Note: some manufacturers offer complete generator packages.
Follow these tips to ensure you're using your generator safely:
Never use a generator indoors; use it in a dry area outdoors and away from open doors, windows and vents;
Check the generator and all component parts to ensure that they have been approved by a recognized certification agency. View approved marks;
Never connect portable generators to electrical appliances or wiring components that have been affected by flood water;
If you have to use extension cords, make sure they are the grounded type with three prongs and rated for how you’re planning to use them. Coiled cords can get extremely hot; always uncoil cords and lay them flat;
Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Allow the generator engine to cool at least 2 minutes before refueling and always use fresh gasoline; and
Buying & Selling a "Fixer Upper"
Have you set your sights on a fixer upper? You may have plans to turn it into your dream home. Or you may plan on renovating it to sell. Either way, buying a home is likely the largest investment you will ever make. You don’t want any surprises – especially when it comes to the home’s electrical systems.
Before you buy, you must know if there are any open electrical notifications on the property. These are outstanding notifications to correct any defects. By law, the buyer assumes responsibility for doing this. Have your lawyer make an Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) Search of Records a part of your purchase agreement. Note there are fees associated with this search.
After the sale
Congratulations, you've got the house! Before you renovate, find out what electrical work has already been done, and if the ESA reviewed the work. If you didn’t ask for a Search of Records before the sale, get a Request for Information. This reports all the electrical work completed under an ESA notification since 2000. Note there are fees associated with a Request for Information.
Ask your Licensed Electrical Contractor to do an assessment of your home’s electrical system. This is different than a home inspection because it just focuses on the electrical.
Planning your renovation
You’ve done your homework and you have some great ideas. It’s time to plan your renovation!
One of the most important parts of a safe renovation is proper electrical work. Remember: what’s behind your walls is as important as what you put on them! If you hire someone to do electrical work, by law, it must be a Licensed Electrical Contractor. And most electrical work requires an ESA notification.
If you decide to do any electrical work yourself, there are some essential things you need to know. Follow the law and do it right – otherwise your renovation dream could turn into a nightmare. Click here to find out what you need to know about notifications and inspections.
*Please note: ESA records date back to 2000.
** Source: Electrical Safety Authority