Portable Generator Basics & Safety
How portable generators provide temporary backup power and what homeowners should know before using one.
How It Works
Portable generator
Set up outdoors
Outdoor power connection
Cords or approved inlet to selected loads
Essential appliances
Fridge, lights, phone charging
- Portable generators are manually set up and started.
- They typically run on gasoline, propane, or dual fuel.
- Runtime is limited by fuel capacity and electrical load.
- They are generally intended for selected appliances or circuits rather than automatic whole-home backup.
Safety First
- Operate portable generators outdoors only.
- Keep them away from doors, windows, garages, and other openings.
- Never operate one inside a home or attached garage.
- Never connect a generator directly to household wiring by backfeeding through an outlet.
- A professionally installed transfer switch or approved connection equipment is required when connecting a portable generator to home circuits.