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Home Generators: What You Need To Know

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Published: Tuesday, 18 November 2025 09:07

Home generators are great backup power sources during outages – but they also pose safety risks. Understanding how to purchase, install, and operate them correctly is key.
Here’s what you need to know about generator safety:

Purchasing
Choose a generator that can supply more power than the combined wattage of the appliances you plan to run, including their startup surge. If you’re unsure how much power you need, check the labels of your appliances or ask an electrician for help.

Risks: If your generator is too small, it can overload, shut down, blow a fuse, or overheat which could start a fire.

Installing

Set up your generator outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your home. Generators emit deadly carbon monoxide (CO), an invisible, odorless gas. Carbon monoxide can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, loss of consciousness, and death. Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages or basements. Install CO detectors in your home for added protection. Place your generator on a dry surface under an open canopy to protect it from moisture.

Risks: CO poisoning can kill within minutes if a generator runs in an enclosed area. Electrocution can occur if the generator or cords become wet.

Operating

Gas powered generators just need fuel to run. Use only the fuel type recommended by the manufacturer, and store it in an approved container outdoors, away from flames or heat sources. Once running, plug appliances directly into the generator or use a heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cord in good condition, with all three prongs intact. Turn off the generator and let it cool completely before refueling.

If you prefer to power your home electrical system directly, hire a qualified electrician to install a transfer switch with the required permits and inspections. Never plug the generator into a wall outlet—this “backfeeding” is illegal and can be deadly to power technicians.

Risks: Spilled or improperly stored fuel can ignite, as can refueling a hot generator. Damaged or undersized cords can overheat and cause fires. Backfeeding can electrocute utility workers or neighbours connected to the same transformer.

Home Generator Safety Summary

To prevent electrocution, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning:

✅ ALWAYS use one that can handle more power than all appliances you plan to run.
✅ ALWAYS operate outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your home, in a dry, open shelter.
✅ ALWAYS ensure you have working carbon monoxide detectors inside your home.
✅ ALWAYS turn off generators and let them cool completely before refueling.
✅ ALWAYS have home connection installed by a qualified electrician.

⚠️ NEVER use generators indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages or basements.
⚠️ NEVER store fuel inside living spaces or near open flames or appliances.
⚠️ NEVER use damaged or undersized cords, or cords meant only for indoor use.