Do you own a generator or
have considering purchasing one? By following the following
guidelines and the instructions provided by the manufacturer,
you will be better prepared to use your generator safely.
By operating your generator properly you also protect the
safety of others, including Cowlitz PUD employees who work
on the power lines.
Portable (temporary) generators can help save food in your
refrigerator or freezer, keep lights on for safety and security
or provide electricity for other essential equipment during
a power outage.
These generators are intended only for short-term use and must
not be connected directly to a home's electrical system.
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Before starting a generator,
carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. |
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Place the generator outside, so deadly
exhaust fumes can vent away from family members and pets. |
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The total electric load on your generator
must not exceed the manufacturer's rating. |
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A generator requires proper ventilation,
so locate it in outdoor area where its exhaust will vent
safely. |
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Prioritize your needs. Use the lowest
wattage light bulbs that provide a safe level of light,
reserving power for additional lighting elsewhere or a
small appliance. The greater the load on a generator, the
more fuel it uses. |
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Extension cords must be properly sized
to carry the electric load. Overloaded cords may cause
damage to equipment or present a fire hazard. |
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Make sure to place cords out of the
way so they do not present a tripping hazard in a dimly
lit area. Never run cords under rugs or carpet. |
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Portable generators are intended to
serve only as a power source for just a few lights
or appliances. Plug appliances directly into the generator-do
not plug the generator into a wall outlet. |
Permanently installed generators are designed to switch on
when the power goes out and may be necessary if you rely
on life support or critical care equipment.
When a generator is permanently connected to your electric
system, you must carefully follow all safety instructions provided
by the manufacturer.
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A qualified professional,
such as a licensed electrical contractor, must install
the generator. |
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An electrical permit through the City
of Longview (577-3330) or State Department of Labor and
Industries (575-6922) is required. |
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Installation of a transfer switch, which
meets national electrical code, is required. A licensed
electrician must install the transfer switch and connect
it to the generator. |
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Contact the PUD to disconnect your electric
service while the transfer switch is installed. |
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The appropriate electrical inspector
must approve the installation of the transfer switch. |
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Upon approval, the inspector will notify
the PUD and your power will be reconnected. |
A generator connected to a building's electric system energizes
the building's wiring, when that generator is turned on.
Since the building is already connected to utility power
lines, that means the generator also has the capability to
energize the PUD system as well. That creates a dangerous
hazard for PUD line crews working on power lines during an
outage—power lines they assume are dead. Don't risk
endangering the lives of PUD line workers… or your
property.
A double-pole, double-throw transfer switch is the recommended
device to keep a permanent generator from feeding into the
Cowlitz PUD system. The transfer switch also keeps PUD power
from re-energizing your house wiring while your generator is
running. This protects the generator, wiring and appliances
from being damaged when PUD service is restored.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call Cowlitz
PUD at (360) 423-2210 or (800) 631-1131. |
