If you have recently bought a portable generator and are now thinking about hooking it up to your house, there are a few things you need to know. There are some safety precautions you should take, as well as how to determine the size of the generator that you need. You can choose to do this yourself, or you can hire a professional to do the work for you.
Safety precautions to take
If you’ve just installed a portable generator, there are a number of safety precautions you should take. These include connecting the device to a grounding rod. Proper grounding protects your equipment and your family.
Before hooking up a portable generator, read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you’re using it properly. You’ll also want to find a dry place to run it. Also, be sure to check it for leaks and damage.
A generator should never be operated near windows, doors or vents. Using a generator inside a home can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. This is an odorless, tasteless gas that can lead to death.
Carbon monoxide levels can build up quickly and reach deadly levels in less than five minutes. This is why it’s important to have a battery-powered carbon monoxide detector. The alarm should be installed outside the sleeping area, in a central location, and be tested regularly.
Portable generators can also cause fires. Always use a properly rated extension cord. Make sure it is free of cuts, worn shielding, and exposed wires.
Proper sizing of a generator
There are many factors to consider when determining the proper sizing of a portable generator. You want a generator that is big enough to handle any electrical load that it may have to bear. However, you don’t want to overdo it. Make sure the device you choose is the best fit for your lifestyle.
The most important thing to consider when sizing a generator is how often the item in question will be used. If you are in a remote location or a business that requires consistent power, then you need a reliable source of fuel. Fuel can be natural gas, propane or gasoline.
You should also consider the type of motor. Some motors require high starting loads. Others require lower running loads. Generally speaking, compressors and air conditioners draw more watts when cycling on and off.
There are many different types of generators available on the market. In fact, there are thousands of models to choose from.
Transfer switch or interlock kit
When you have a portable generator house hookup, you need to protect yourself and your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide. There are two main ways to go about this – you can purchase a transfer switch or install an interlock kit.
The interlock device is usually the least expensive option. It’s a metal bracket mounted to the panel that prevents power from flowing in the wrong direction.
A more expensive option is a transfer switch. They can be used to automatically switch between main supply lines and a generator. These are generally installed by a licensed electrician.
Interlocks typically cost around $400-800 for labor. This includes the cost of the interlock device, the wiring, and the installation. However, they are not recommended for amateurs.
If you don’t have the budget to buy an automatic transfer switch, an interlock kit will do. These devices are often less costly than the transfer switch, and you won’t have to worry about wiring.
Do it yourself vs. hiring a professional
If you’re considering installing a portable generator, you may wonder if you can do it yourself or if you’ll need to hire a professional. You should know that although there are many advantages to doing it yourself, there are also risks associated with installing a generator. For instance, a generator that’s installed by an amateur might deliver too much power to your appliances, which could cause damage. A licensed electrician, on the other hand, can install a portable generator safely and securely.
Before installing a generator, you should consult with your local building authority and utilities to ensure that it’s legal. In addition, you should make sure you have the proper oil and gas for the generator. Ensure the generator is not placed near any flammables, such as smoke detectors, or overhangs that might catch fire.
If you’re installing a generator that has more than 15,000 watts of power, you’ll need a professional to handle the wiring and other installation. The installation can be quite expensive, with costs running between $1,500 and $5,000.
