Avoid Dangerous Generator Hook-Ups During a Power Outage.
News Release – December 5, 2024
With extended power outages becoming more frequent, many homeowners are resorting to temporary solutions for restoring electricity. While this is understandable, some last-minute makeshift solutions can pose serious dangers.
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One of the most dangerous temporary generator hook-ups is the use of what some electricians refer to as a “Suicide Cord.” This cord, which has a male plug on each end, connects a portable generator to an electrical outlet inside the home. Often through an electric dryer outlet. While this may be a quick and easy solution, the dangers are significant.
The exposed male prongs of the “Suicide Cord” can be live with electricity when one end is unplugged, creating a high risk of electric shock or electrocution to people and pets.
In contrast, a standard generator cord has a male plug at one end and a female connector at the other, with no live parts exposed. Using a cord with male plugs on both ends is very dangerous.
Beyond personal safety, this method can also backfeed power into the local electric grid, if the main circuit breaker is not turned off, putting power company workers and neighbors at risk.
FOR HOMEOWNERS WHO DON’T WANT DANGEROUS GENERATOR HOOK-UPS
There are several options to prepare in advance of a power outage for homeowners who want to be ready and safe. None of them require that a generator be purchased ahead of time. I listed them below in order of installation difficulty.
1) Transfer Switch Behind the Electric Meter: One of the simplest and safest ways to prepare for a power outage. This meter mounted transfer switch automatically disconnects power from the utility company when a generator is connected, preventing dangerous backfeeding. This type of portable generator connection method must be approved by your electric utility company.
2) Interlock Kit on the Main Electrical Panel: Ensures that the main circuit breaker is turned off before the generator circuit breaker can be activated. This also allows homeowners to select which circuits to power during an outage. An interlock kit installation typically requires a permit and inspection from your local building department.
You can see an example of an interlock kit step-by-step installation that I did by clicking here.
3) Pre-wired Generator Sub-Panels: Come with long wire leads that can be spliced to existing circuits inside your main electrical panel. These pre-wired transfer kits provide power to a limited number of electrical circuits pre-chosen by the homeowner. Each circuit has its own little transfer switch. This type of installation also needs a permit and inspection.
4) A Generator Sub-Panel: Customized with the circuits that you want during a power outage. This is a more advanced installation than the pre-wired transfer kits. The circuit wires would be moved into this sub-panel rather than be spliced in the main panel. This installation needs a permit and inspection.
Lastly, it’s important to have the proper generator power cord ready for use to avoid dangerous generator hookups. To be prepared for all types of generators, buy or make adapters for 20 amp and 50 amp generator outlets. The most common generator cord is rated for 30 amps.
As an experienced electrical contractor, I have seen firsthand the risks involved during long-term outages when power company workers, electricians, and electrical supply companies are stretched thin due to the sudden demand for power restoration and generator connection equipment. it is better to be prepared ahead of time. When a long term outage occurs you can borrow, rent, or buy a portable generator and just plug it in.
Storms account for many of the fatalities associated with generator use, with ice and snow storms accounting for 46%. Hurricanes accounted for 29%. (https://www.esfi.org/portable-generator-safety-generate-safety/)
Planning and installing the right equipment in advance can make all the difference in maintaining power and safety during an outage.
Contact a local electrical contractor to help you avoid dangerous generator hook-ups.
More Information: https://MrElectrician.TV/category/generator-hook-ups/
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