Jon's Blog
Shock and Electrocution
- Never attach a generator directly to the electrical system of structure (home, office, trailer, etc.) unless a qualified electrician has properly installed the generator with a transfer switch.
- Always plug electrical appliances directly into the generator using the manufacturer's supplied cords or extension cords that are grounded (3-pronged). Inspect the cord to make sure they are fully intact and not damaged. Never use frayed or damaged extension cords.
- Keep a generator dry; do not use it in the rain or in wet conditions. If needed, protect a generator with a canopy.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces such as garages, crawl spaces, and basements.
- Make sure a generator has three to four feet of clear space on all sides and above it to ensure adequate ventilation.
- Be cautious when using a generator outdoors to ensure it is not placed near doors, windows, and vents could allow CO to enter and build up in occupied spaces.
- If you or others show symptoms of CO poisoning—dizziness, headaches, nausea, tiredness—get to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention. Do no re-enter the area until it is determined to be safe by trained and properly equipped personnel.
Fire Hazards
- Generators become hot while running and remain hot for long periods after they are stopped. Generator fuels (gasoline, kerosene, etc.) can ignite when spilled on hot engine parts.
- Before refueling, shut down the generator and allow it to cool.
- Gasoline and other generator fuels should be stored and transported in approved containers that are properly designed and marked for their contents, and vented.
- Keep fuel containers away from flame producing and heat generating devices (such as the generator itself, water heaters, cigarettes, lighters, and matches). Do not smoke around fuel containers.
Noise and Vibration Hazards
- Generator engines vibrate and create noise.
- Excessive noise and vibration could cause hearing loss and fatigue that may affect job performance.
- Keep portable generators as far away as possible from work areas and gathering spaces.
- Wear hearing protection if this is not possible.
How do I maintain my home stand-by generator in the off-season and between regularly scheduled maintenance visits?
A visual inspection takes a minute and can save you hours of darkness. Open the cover and make sure you have a green light on your control panel. This indicates your generator has run its weekly exercise and all systems checked out fine. If you have any red lights -- either steady or flashing -- call us right away. If you have a liquid-cooled generator, you can also, look at the level of your coolant resevoir and confirm you have adequate coolant. Look at the fan belts and check for any signs of wear and tear. Finally, look at the battery and check for signs of excessive corrosion on the terminals. If you suspect any problems, call and schedule an appointment.
Service for the generator is much like the service you perform on your automobile. The generator set should have oil and all filters changed at least once a year. Fan belts should be checked for cracks and replaced every couple of years to prevent over heating. The radiator anti-freeze should be drained periodically and replaced to prevent deterioration.
The generator should be kept free from dust and occasionally connections should be checked for looseness. These procedures are normally done every so many hours of engine operation i.e., 100 to 200, depending on the manufacturer's suggested maintenance schedules.
Severe weather patterns can increase the maintenance requirements, i.e., excessive dust, heat, moisture. The unit should also be checked from an electrical standpoint to be sure that it is performing as it was designed.
Use regular unleaded gas with at least 85 octane for your gas powered generator. Turn off the generator engine and allow it to cool about 2 minutes before refueling. Never put gas into your generator while the engine is running.
Using the right generator engine oil is critical to long lasting generator operation. Generally, high-quality 10W-30 engine oil is generally acceptable, but refer to your engine manual for oil recommendations. Every time you use your generator be sure to check the engine oil level.
It is important to check your generator motor oil every time you use your gas generator. Most generators come with a dipstick to check the oil level. Fill the generator motor oil level to the FULL mark on dipstick. If a dipstick does not exist, place some cardboard on the ground under the generator, open the engine oil cap and fill to where the oil is just dripping on to the cardboard.
If you are looking for maintenance parts or warranty service for your generator, call us at 1-888-68-WATTS (888-689-2887) for all service inquiries.
Your portable generator engine has, in all likelihood, been shipped from the factory without oil in the engine crankcase. However select models may be shipped with a full crankcase. In all cases you should check the oil level prior to starting. Operating the unit without oil will ruin the engine. Remember to check engine oil level before every use.
