When severe weather hits, a portable generator can be a real lifesaver. But if it’s used incorrectly, it can pose serious dangers—to your home, your family and the lineworkers trying to restore power.
Improper generator use can lead to electrocution, fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Stay safe by using your generator the right way.
For guidance on safe generator installation, contact West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC). Working together for safety helps protect everyone in our community.
Put Safety First
Never connect a generator directly to your home's wiring unless a transfer switch has been professionally installed. Without it, electricity from the generator can flow back into power lines, creating a deadly hazard for lineworkers and others.
This dangerous condition is called back-feeding. It happens when power from your generator flows into the power lines, which can make those lines “live” even during an outage. This can cause serious injury or death.
One of the safest ways to avoid back-feeding is by using a transfer switch such as a double-pole, double-throw switch like the GenerLink™ Transfer Switch. This device safely connects your generator to your home's wiring and automatically disconnects from the power grid when needed.
Proper Generator Installation
Per the National Electric Code, your generator connection must isolate utility and generator power to avoid dangerous cross-connections. This is typically done with a “break-before-make” transfer switch, which ensures that one power source is disconnected before the other is connected.
The transfer switch should:
▪ Be installed by a licensed electrician.
▪ Be rated equal to or higher than your home’s main circuit breaker.
▪ Protect your generator from damage when utility service is restored.
If a transfer switch is too costly, another safe option is to install a sub-panel:
▪ This panel connects to both your main breaker box and the generator.
▪ A special interlock ensures that utility power and generator power can't be active at the same time, which prevents back-feeding.
Wiring and Breaker Size Guidelines:
▪ 30 Amp: 10-3 wire with ground
▪ 40 Amp: 8-3 wire with ground
▪ 50 Amp: 6-3 wire with ground
When using a sub-panel:
1. Install a breaker and appropriate wiring to feed the sub-panel from the main panel.
2. Connect both the main utility power and generator to the sub-panel using separate breakers.
3. Use an interlock kit to ensure only one power source is active at a time.
4. Choose circuits carefully—many generators can’t handle your entire home’s load. You may need to turn off some circuits to avoid overloading.
Always use a generator that is at least 25% larger than your estimated power needs to allow for flexibility and added safety.
Power Up Safely
Always use a transfer switch, like the GenerLink™, when connecting a generator to your home’s electrical system. Operate the generator outdoors in a dry, well-ventilated area. Never run it inside a home, garage, or shed.
Never refuel a running generator. Let it cool down first.
Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords and ensure the generator is properly grounded. Avoid overloading the generator. Power appliances one at a time.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting it down.
Never plug a generator into a wall outlet or directly into home wiring.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Inspect the unit thoroughly each season before use.
Do not attempt repairs yourself. Use a qualified service technician. Never tamper with safety features. Engine parts can get extremely hot—avoid contact to prevent burns. Keep children away from generators at all times.
Disconnect from your utility service before starting your generator.
Important Safety Reminders
Carbon Monoxide Risk
Generator exhaust contains carbon monoxide—a deadly gas. Always vent exhaust away from windows, doors, and vents. Never run a generator indoors.
Water + Electricity = Danger
Never use a generator in flooded or wet areas. Make sure your hands are dry, you’re standing on a dry surface and the unit is properly grounded.
Gasoline Safety
Store fuel only in approved containers and out of reach of children. Never smoke near gasoline or refuel near an open flame.
Want to ensure your generator setup is safe?
Contact West Florida Electric Cooperative for assistance or additional resources. Safety is a shared responsibility—thank you for doing your part.
