A generator operates by converting mechanical energy into electrical, providing users with a source of electricity. A generator tends to work on the principles of faraday’s law of electromagnetism. The law states that when an electrical conductor goes through a varying magnetic field, it results in EMF. This emf is also known as electromotive force. A generator contains a coil and copper winding on a metal core, which exists between two magnets. People who usually buy generators don’t go into every little detail of their function. They are just concerned with the fact that it provides them with electricity to light up their homes.
Keeping a generator on-site poses different issues, which include a flammable fuel tank, production of harmful gases, and electricity. So, running one can sometimes be dangerous for you. That said, generators are useful and provide users with backup power in case of emergencies. If you recently purchased a generator, then this article will be helpful for you. If you have none yet for your home, then you should get one, and choose from any of these highly-recommended, and the Best 10000 Watt Portable Generators. Thus, we decided to extract some of the most common mistakes that you should avoid while using a generator, in turn increasing its life.
VENTILATION ISSUES
Probably the biggest mistake that users make is running a generator in a tight space inside their home. Carbon monoxide is a killer. It is odorless, as compared to other harmful gases. When you run a generator inside, it poses a risk of suffocation. If you plan to run a generator inside your home, ensure that the room has windows and it is well ventilated.
All generators should be used in an open space if you wish to avoid poisoning the people present inside. Also, a good idea would be to install a carbon monoxide monitor if you plan to run a generator inside your house. It will enable you to keep track of the amount of carbon monoxide that the generator is emitting. Moreover, consider buying a new generator instead of a used one, like ones from Ablesales.com.au, as they tend to emit less carbon monoxide than older ones.
PLUGGING IT INTO AN INLET OR AN OUTLET
Whether you purchase a standby generator or a portable one, a good practice when working with a generator is to install a standalone transfer switch to avoid electricity backflow. Due to backflow, electricity from the generator can make its way through to the power lines. It can electrocute anyone who might be working on them. Get a transfer switch installed by a certified electrician and test it out routinely. Running a generator without a transfer switch will ultimately affect its health and cause it to break down.
Also, avoid plugging your generator directly into an inlet inside your house. It can cause damage to your home appliances and can sometimes cause electrical fires.
SMOKING IN FRONT OF A GENERATOR
It is surprising how many people smoke in the presence of flammable liquids and gases. Smoking near a generator can cause damage. Generators often run on petrol or diesel, and they are both highly flammable types of fuel and let off fumes. Smoking near a generator is a serious health hazard as it can sometimes cause an explosion that can cause damage to it and yourself.
If you refuel your generator yourself, chances are you might spill some fuel on top of it. Do not smoke until you know for sure that the petrol has evaporated.
IMPROPER MAINTENANCE AND TESTING
Are you also scared of finding out that your generator’s wiring is inaccurate, the fuel is old, or the generator doesn’t work during an emergency? If you plan on not working with your generator for a long time, use a stabilizer to ensure that the petrol or diesel inside the generator does not go stale. If your generator runs on natural gas or propane, check the gas lines regularly to find out if there are any leakages present.
Also, change the generator’s oil once a week to avoid any engine seizure issues. A generator is just like a car. It needs regular maintenance, which, unfortunately, people avoid doing. It hinders your generator’s ability to work efficiently. It also reduces its life, causing it to break down earlier than anticipated. Maintain it periodically to ensure a long life.
FRAYED EXTENSION CORD
Finding out your generator’s extension cord is broken or frayed is something very alarming. A generator creates enough electricity to kill a horse, let alone a human being. Using a frayed electrical cord can also cause your generator to short circuit, drastically damaging it. Ensure that the extension cord you use with your generator is top-quality and rated to handle the amperage it produces.
A short circuit will cause your generator to overload, which will drastically decrease its life. When buying a generator, be it a standby or portable one, make sure it comes with a built-in circuit breaker to prevent the flow of current if there is a short circuit.
FINAL WORDS
As per the new learning by the Consumer Product Safety Commission stated that four out of five carbon-monoxide poisoning related deaths occurred due to the use of generators. Running and maintaining a generator requires a lot of time and dedication. Improper operation can cause issues such as electrical fire and inefficiently working generators. It is crucial to refer to the generator’s instruction manual to know about how to operate it correctly and safely. Today, we shared with you some mistakes that you should avoid when using a generator to ensure it lasts for a long time. So, avoid these mistakes at all costs.
