If you don’t want to store your portable generator inside your home, you can store it outside. But you should be careful. Carbon monoxide, a deadly gas, can build up and kill anyone nearby. The gas is colorless, odorless, and has a higher density than air. This means it can build up anywhere. And you don’t want people to be exposed to the gas, especially since outside wind can spread it to the people inside the home or the building.
Storage options for portable generators
Choosing the best location to store your portable generator is crucial. It needs to be kept out of extreme temperatures and protected from dust. Garages are ideal, but outdoor storage is also acceptable. The main goal is to protect the generator from rain, dust, heat, and snow, so it can perform at its best. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect your generator. Follow the tips below to find the right spot for your portable generator.
While it might seem like a complicated process, keeping portable generators in a secure place is not hard. The key is to keep the generator in a place that is convenient for you and allows you to access it whenever needed. You don’t want your generator to die on you during a power outage, so it’s best to keep it dry and protected in a place where you can access it easily.
Places to store portable generators in wet weather
Portable generators require shelter from wet weather, so finding a place that is solid and dry is important. Avoid areas that pool water or puddles. If possible, choose a spot that is higher than the rest of the yard. If that isn’t possible, consider landscaping the area to provide a suitable place. It will also help to install an operational cover to protect the generator.
When storing portable generators, you must remember that water and electricity do not mix well. You should never allow your generator to get wet as it could lead to an electrical shock. Places to store portable generators in wet weather include garages, sheds, storage units, and special generator enclosures. Garages are the most suitable places for this kind of generator storage because they offer the best protection from bad weather. Moreover, garages are easy to access when needed.
Dangers of running a generator in the rain or snow
Running a portable generator in the rain or snow is dangerous and should be avoided. This weather can damage electronic components and cause a fire. The water in the generator can also conduct electricity, which can lead to electrocution. The water may also cause the generator to stop working. To avoid this, use generator tents that cover the control panel and let air flow in. In this way, you can protect your generator from the rain.
In severe weather conditions, hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods can damage homes and businesses. High winds can blow away heavy objects, including portable generators. In addition, running a generator in bad weather may cause the generator to swing around and cause damage. In some cases, the generator could even blow over and hit someone. While there is always the backup plan, it may be better to wait until the weather clears and use the generator when it is not raining or snowing.
Carbon monoxide buildup
Portable generators left outside can produce deadly amounts of carbon monoxide. While it is difficult to prevent, it is possible to reduce the risk of exposure by installing shut-off valves. The Portable Generators Manufacturers’ Association has developed a voluntary safety standard. It believes that this standard can prevent 99% of carbon monoxide deaths. The trade group disputes the CPSC’s finding that too few manufacturers are adopting the safety measure.
Carbon monoxide is invisible and can accumulate in enclosed spaces, even hours after a portable generator has been turned off. The gas is extremely dangerous because it can kill a person before they even realize what is happening. The effects of CO exposure vary from person to person, and the risk of death depends on age, overall health, the concentration, and length of exposure.
Damage caused by hurricanes and tornadoes
Hurricanes and tornadoes have devastating effects on coasts and inland communities. High winds can shred houses and destroy trees, and airborne debris can turn anything into a deadly missile. When a hurricane is threatening, many people board up doors and windows to protect their homes. These storms are often linked to widespread power outages and damaged distribution systems.
The Gulf Coast was hit by Hurricane Laura, a Category 4 hurricane on August 26, 2008. The storm ripped through the Gulf Coast and left hundreds of thousands of homes without power. The majority of coverage focused on the 150 mph winds and the ‘unsurvivable’ storm surge. But the truth is that most deaths occurred after the storm, as carbon monoxide poisoning killed eight of the 14 people who died.
Propane is better than gasoline for portable generators
Propane is better than gasoline for portable and emergency generators for a variety of reasons. While propane is less powerful than gasoline, it is much cleaner burning and produces fewer emissions than gasoline. This makes propane generators more popular among those concerned with the environment. Even polar bears are thankful for propane generators.
Propane generators require less maintenance. Unlike gasoline, propane doesn’t need to be regularly cleaned or stored. It also doesn’t require periodic cleaning of the fuel system or engine parts. This means less hassle in the long run and lower maintenance costs.
