Generator Buying And Usage Tips For DC Homeowners

Don’t wait until the power goes out here in Washington, DC. Now is the time, before winter storms arrive, to buy a generator to give your family peace of mind during a blackout. But how do you know that you’re buying the best generator for your home and operating it safely? This guide has all the information you need when it comes to using and buying a portable generator.

Where to Place an Outdoor Generator

The exhaust from a portable generator contains carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that you can’t see or smell if it leaks into the air. For this reason, generators should be placed and operated outdoors where there is full ventilation. Even placing the generator in a semi-enclosed space such as your garage is a risk.

For even more safety performance, generators should be placed off the ground to keep them away from water during flooding. Place the generator on a pad on level ground with at least 5 feet of clearance from doorways, walls, and windows. This will keep the generator from overheating and blow the exhaust gases away from your home.

Looking for a generator? Call a HomeAdvisor professional in Washington, DC.

Choosing the Right Size Generator

Generators are sold based on how much power or wattage they output. When buying a generator, you’ll want to choose one that meets and exceeds your power requirements. This way the generator will be able to supply more than enough power to run your home during an electrical outage. Talk to a generator expert for help in determining the best size unit for your home.

Consider one of these generator engines for your portable fuel needs:

• Side-valve engine: These generators can run for several days when maintained correctly.
• Briggs & Stratton engine: With regular maintenance, generators with a Briggs & Stratton engine are reliable and easy to operate. Be sure to service the generator after every 100 hours of operation.
• Tecumseh engine: Affordable and dependable, a Tecumseh operated generator will need maintenance after 25 hours of operation or more frequently if you’re running the generator in dirty or dusty conditions.

How to Operate Your Generator

Most generators are gas powered. Use these tips to safely operate your generator:

• Let the generator cool down before refueling with gas. If this isn’t possible, be sure to avoid spilling gas onto the generator engine.
• Keep children and pets away from a running generator.
• To avoid electrocution risks, never connect the generator directly into the wiring of your home.
• To prevent damage to appliances and home electronics, avoid overloading the generator.

For help choosing the right power backup for your home, call a HomeAdvisor generator contractor in Washington, DC.

This Patch article is sponsored by HomeAdvisor.