Whether you're going on a camping holiday or you're setting up a workshop in your garden shed, portable generators can be a hugely useful. That's because they provide you with a power supply when there is no way of connecting to the local grid, so you can light up your caravan or rev up your power tools without impediment.
However, while portable generators are usually rigorously tested for safety before being sold or leased to the public, there are a few guidelines and tips you should bear in mind when operating them.
Safely Installing Your Generator
Whether you've bought your own portable generator or you've hired one, the first and most important thing is to keep it outside in a well-ventilated area. This is so that carbon monoxide created by running the machine will not enter your home.
You should also keep it in a dry space and always protect it from moisture. If the generator is meant to provide power to your home, this means placing it under a canopy or another kind of overhead cover to keep rain and snow away. It's also advisable to elevate it above ground level by placing it on a base, so that it doesn't touch wet soil or cement.
While your portable generator shouldn't necessarily touch the ground, it should be properly grounded using a ground wire. Touching a generator that isn't properly grounded could cause electrocution. In addition, you should also check that there are no frayed or exposed wires on the generator before you start it up.
Finally, ensure that you keep it in a clean and tidy environment. If you're using your portable generator as a back-up power supply for your home, you'll more than likely have to turn it on - and refill the fuel tank - in the dark. Removing any obstacles and keeping a torch handy means that you'll be able to do this without mishap.
Safely Running Your Generator
If your generator runs on fuel, always make sure that you use fresh gasoline or diesel. You should also avoid re-fuelling your generator while it is running. Instead, shut it down and give it some time to cool before refilling it. What's more, if you only run your portable generator occasionally, remember to restart it every month or so and let it run for a few minutes. This deters internal glazing and carbon build up inside the generator, which can damage it and shorten its lifespan.
Most importantly, never plug your generator directly into a power socket in your home. This can cause serious damage to your electrical system. Instead, use a transfer switch to connect your generator to your home electricity panel. Power generator hire companies and retailers should be able to give you expert advice on how to make this connection, or offer to install it for you.
