A lot of the danger occurs when people attempt to use the generator in their home's electrical panel without using a transfer switch, an expert says. Watch video
Carbon monoxide poisoning deaths due to generators made up the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools from 1999 through 2012, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. WOODBRIDGE - As high winds and surf from Hurricane Joaquin approach New Jersey, the thought of buying a generator may not be far behind.
There are different types of generators and different ways of hooking them up, which means there are ways to hook them up incorrectly, as well. A generator that's connected improperly can be dangerous.
While some prefer to use the generator to power one or two appliances at a time, others hope to run more of their household utilities.
"A lot of the danger you see is when people attempt to use the generator in their home's electrical panel without using a transfer switch," said Steve Henits, service manager at Team Electric Plumbing & Air in Manalapan.
A transfer switch is an electrical device installed next to a home's electrical panel that allows homeowners to power their circuits by connecting the generator to the transfer switch.
The permanently hard-wired transfer switch closes off the utility power line to the home's electrical system during a power outage and opens a line to a generator, then reverses the process when grid power is restored.
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Experts say the advantage of a transfer switch over cords is that a homeowner can run devices that are not connected to cords, such as a furnace blower motor or ceiling light fixtures. The transfer switch provides utility power and eliminates the need to run extension cords throughout the home.
If done incorrectly the generator may cause a fire, Henits said.
"If you want to power your house panel, a transfer switch is required," Henits said.
The cost of the electrical work varies, ranging anywhere from $800 to $15,000 or more, electricians say.
"The size of the generator matters," said Steve Rhodes of Rhodes & Sons Electrical Contractor in Middlesex Borough.
Electrical issues aside, there are many other dangers to consider when using a generator.
Carbon monoxide poisoning deaths due to generators made up the majority of carbon monoxide deaths involving engine-driven tools from 1999 through 2012, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
"Portable generators were linked to more than 85 percent of non-fire CO deaths associated with engine-driven tools, or 800 out of 931 deaths, during that 14-year period," the commission reports on its website.
Most of the deaths have occurred since 2005, when Hurricane Katrina and a series of winter ice storms hit the U.S.
In addition to carbon monoxide poisoning, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration reports hazards associated with generators include shocks and electrocution from improper use; fire hazards from running hot; and hearing loss from excessive noise.
OSHA and The American Red Cross make several recommendations when using portable generators:
- To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use in rain or wet conditions. To protect the generator from moisture, operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
- Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet, a practice known as "backfeeding." This is an extremely dangerous practice that presents an electrocution risk to utility workers and neighbors served by the same utility transformer. It also bypasses some of the built-in household protection devices.
- Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces such as garages and basements. Make sure the generator has three-to-four feet of clear space on all sides and above to ensure ventilation.
- Do not use a generator outdoors if its placement near doors or windows could allow CO to enter and build up in occupied spaces.
- Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer's installation instructions. If CO gas from the generator enters your home and poses a health risk, the alarm will sound to warn you. Test the battery frequently and replace when needed.
- Generator fuels can ignite when spilled on hot engine parts. Before refueling, shut down the machine and allow it to cool.
- Generator engines vibrate and create noise. Excessive noise and vibration could cause hearing loss. Keep portable generators as far away as possible from work areas and gathering spaces.
Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.