In Business Since 2001 We accept Paypal
Home Article Directory
More from Bill Platt
"Bill Platt for Book Authors" Youtube Channel
Training for Book Authors
Other Resources for Book Authors & Publishers
FictionPlots.com (350+ Plots & counting)
Please Support Our Advertisers

 
D9 Hosting


Don't Play Games With Electricity Or Electric Power Generators

Copyright (c) 2007-2023

Almost without fail, after the public gets word that a severe storm is heading their way, stores get a surge of people looking for the last remaining groceries and portable emergency power generators. For example, after dangerous ice storms recently wreaked havoc on parts of the Midwest, there was a huge spike in emergency generator sales. The only problem that arises from this increase of generators in people's homes has to do with the harms that could arise when well-meaning homeowners are not aware of the consequences of an improper installation. Suddenly a precarious situation arises when a wrongly installed generator back feeds the utility lines.

When customers do not take heed of the proper guidelines when using their newly purchased generators, this can cause serious dangers to the customer and to power-line construction workers. In the moments surrounding a disaster, the panicked situation always means that typical safety procedures are ignored as people rush to set up their power generators. The installation of emergency generators is a serious undertaking and the utmost care must be observed.

For example, connecting portable generators directly into a building's wiring system is strongly discouraged. The only safe solution would be to have a double throw transfer switch to prevent the generator from back feeding the utility lines, but even that method is not recommended. Customers need to be aware that a host of criminal charges could be filed and one would be liable for endangering the lives of electrical utility workers in the event that their backup power generators cause harm or threaten harm to utility employees.

The best way to avoid the last minute rush of installing a generator is to have the generator properly installed before an emergency, rather than in the hours prior to the snowstorm or hurricane's arrival.

If a customer must go against warnings and decide to connect a generator to the existing wiring system of their home or business, it is imperative that they use a double throw transfer switch. The Transfer switch will help protect of linemen in their efforts to restore power. You can be held liable for the loss of life or property damage caused by back feeding the utility lines. A transfer switch or relay is also required by municipal and building codes.

The following safety tips are crucial for the proper installing and use of portable emergency generators. The first step that people need to take is to fully read, understand and follow the manufacturers instructions about the intended use and installation procedures that are designated for the particular generator. Failure to follow the directions could result in major problems down the road.

As with many appliances that produce harmful fumes, power generators should never be used indoors or in a closed space, because of the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning and ignition of the fumes that are caused by fuel evaporation. People should maintain a well-vented environment to avoid any potential problems.

Since power generators are labeled with certain limitations, as far as generated power output, it is not wise to overload the generator. Overloading can cause damage to the generator as well as creating a fire hazard. Before purchasing a generator, you should be aware of your exact needs, and buy the generator that properly meets your power usage needs.

Portable generators with 4- to 5-kilowatt ratings are the minimum size needed for a typical three-bedroom home. Generators are rated in kilowatts, or KW. One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts. Electric motors draw three- to five-times more power when starting than when running under full load, so proper generator sizing is critical to avoid motor burnouts.

Electrical shock is another issue that could arise if the generator is not properly grounded. The best method to ground your generator is by using the grounding connection of your electrical utility service. Customers should seek the help of a qualified electrician when installing a power generator. All connections the electrical service panel should be handled by a professional electrician to prevent opening any existing ground connections.

All electric connections must comply with the National Electrical Code. Never feed power from your generator into a wall outlet, otherwise a fire could start if the branch circuit is not large enough to handle the entire load. Simply put, if the wiring of your home or building is not isolated, the generator will back feed the utility lines.

Furthermore, care should be taken during wet weather conditions to avoid the risk of shock or electrocution. Cords running from your electric generator should always be checked closely to make sure they remain in good condition. An overloaded electrical cord is a frequent cause of house fires, so safe operation will require the user to pay close attention to detail.


About The Author: Shop Amazon - Top Gift Ideas
Written by: Will Gruver of US Power and Environment. USPE's Eden Prairie, MN headquarters, assisted by in-house product technical and operations specialists, has the experience gained from supplying, installing and maintaining on-site energy systems across the country and around the world. They buy, sell, rent and repair natural gas and diesel power generators. To learn more, visit their website at: http://www.uspowerco.com or give them a call at: 877-772-6018

VOTE ON THIS ARTICLE
Needs Work >> 0 - 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 << Excellent Article

Tell our authors what you think about their article.



Top-Level Category: Shopping Articles || Related Categories: Technology Articles

10 Most Recent Articles Written by Will Gruver

Rv Nation - Portable Power Generators Make The American Camping Experience A Lot More Comfortable For Long Term Trips
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-31 | Word Count: 972 | Page Views: 5004 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 1.67
Millions of Americans families each year embark on long road trips in their RVs, and spend countless days in the wilderness. In many instances, portable power is one necessity that these families need when they want electricity, but are way off the grid.

Portable Power And Lighting Are Essential For Most Construction Projects
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-29 | Word Count: 775 | Page Views: 5341 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 1.00
Portable power generators are an essential part of the construction industry. In many situations, contractors may find themselves at job sites where the lack of electrical service or power failures requires them to utilize portable lighting units.

How To Utilize Portable Power Generators To Bring A Quick And Successful End To The Iraq War
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-23 | Word Count: 1016 | Page Views: 4406 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
Long before the United States invaded Iraq, Iraq's power infrastructure was in shambles, and it seemed like things could not get any worse, as brownouts and blackouts were commonplace. Since the war, things have actually gotten worse, and Iraqis have had to turn to alternative means to supply their energy needs.

Global Outlook: Portable Electric Power Generators For Fast Growth Regions And Developing Markets Of The World
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-22 | Word Count: 1095 | Page Views: 5080 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 1.44
Many third-world countries are interested in portable power generators, because electricity can significantly impact quality of life and commercial opportunity.

Savings Lives: Electric Power Generators In Hospitals And Prisons Are Essential
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-21 | Word Count: 754 | Page Views: 6248 | Votes: 11 | Rating: 2.00
Anyone who has ever seen reruns of MASH can appreciate the importance of power generators in both medical facilities and military bases. In almost every episode it seemed, one of the characters would be hunched over a body on the operating table yelling for someone to fix the generator.

Electric Power Generation In The Aftermath Of A Major Disaster
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-18 | Word Count: 891 | Page Views: 4103 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 2.10
Mother nature is fierce. She haunts mankind's assertions that we are the dominant force on Earth. Countless times she has beaten this belief out of us with lethal force. We are often left completely defenseless to the natural disasters rained down on us by one of the last untamable aspects of our existence.

Small Businesses, Home Owners, and Governments Utilize Power Generators in Times Of Disaster
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-18 | Word Count: 814 | Page Views: 4632 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.38
In today's power obsessed world, power generators are increasingly becoming used as portable energy sources as well as for emergency purposes. Electric generators are used for a varying range of purposes including RV and mobile home power sources. Commercial properties and even government properties like dams and nuclear power plants are getting accustomed to relying on power generators. Power generators can also be great in maintaining electricity in homes during prolonged blackouts.

Keeping Your Business Profitable Into The 21st Century
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-11 | Word Count: 1037 | Page Views: 3074 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.13
Whenever a storm ravages through an area, it is not only homes and people that are affected. Many businesses lose infinite amounts of money after storm damage forces them to temporarily shut down, as a result of power blackouts. The direct result of power outages is frequently significant revenue loss and the possible loss of customers.

Shopping Tips For Buying A Consumer or Commercial Electric Power Generator
Written by: Will Gruver | Distributed: 2007-05-03 | Word Count: 853 | Page Views: 4600 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.50
We live in a very comfortable world. Air-conditioning keeps us cool in summer and heaters make sure we never get too cold. We have cars so we don't have to walk anywhere, and there are countless kitchen appliances dedicated to making cooking so simple that a monkey could be gourmet chef. None of these staples of daily life would be possible with the use of significant amounts of power, specifically electricity.

All of Author's Articles on this site:

Most Recent "Shopping" Articles

From Becoming the Perfect Stranger to the Perfect Partner
Written by: Kandice Skaggs | Distributed: 2013-10-15 | Word Count: 843 | Page Views: 5440 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 1.43
Although we are aware of people who have fostered good relationships out of online dating, it doesn't happen all the time. As a matter of fact, most of them fail because of a slew of reasons. Here are some reminders on how to walk that ground so you can become just the right partner that another has been dying to meet.

Choosing Rainwear
Written by: Rathi Niyogi | Distributed: 2010-11-04 | Word Count: 741 | Page Views: 5582 | Votes: 3 | Rating: 0.67
Rainwear does more than simply keep out rain or snow, it protects from wind, cold, and chemical splashes. Your choice of rainwear depends on the expected weather, the expected temperatures, your planned activities, and your budget. Rainwear materials and designs greatly affect the performance you can expect. There are three major types of rainwear:

Celebrity Perfume Gift Sets Are Always Welcome
Written by: Robert Moore | Distributed: 2010-08-05 | Word Count: 736 | Page Views: 4914 | Votes: 3 | Rating: 2.00
Perfume is one of the best gifts for your loved ones on almost every occasion, whether it is Valentine's Day, Birthday, Wedding Anniversary, or even Christmas Day.

Best Cologne Gift Sets Are A Great Idea For Men
Written by: Robert Moore | Distributed: 2010-07-29 | Word Count: 770 | Page Views: 4889 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.00
Hair, clothing and looks are important, but the right cologne transforms a man. Giving him the confidence to know he smells good when approaching beautiful women in a club or giving a presentation for work. When it comes to fragrances for men companies now understand that men want to smell good while attending parties, formal events, the office, on a date or simply while relaxing at home.

Must-See 2010 Summer Music Festivals
Written by: Ryan Hogan | Distributed: 2010-04-28 | Word Count: 885 | Page Views: 5302 | Votes: 5 | Rating: 0.60
One of the best things about summer, at least for music fans, is the plethora of music festivals held all across the country and all though out the season. These festivals bring together dozens of great bands usually for more than one day and usually on more than one stage.

How Does A Blu-ray Disc Work?
Written by: Titus Hoskins | Distributed: 2010-04-27 | Word Count: 444 | Page Views: 6525 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 0.89
Blu-ray Players are all the rage in home entertainment, but how exactly does a Blu-ray disc work and why is it so much better than a regular DVD disc or system? Read this informative article to discover how a Blu-ray disc works.

Understanding Personal Injury Law and Knowing When You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
Written by: Keith Stachowiak | Distributed: 2010-03-10 | Word Count: 497 | Page Views: 4290 | Votes: 2 | Rating: 0.50
When in an accident caused by someone else's carelessness or deliberate actions, one of the first thoughts that goes through most people's minds after the panic and relief subsides, is whether they should seek out a personal injury lawyer. Before you make this decision, you should know what personal injury law is, whether you even need a personal injury lawyer, and when you should choose one.

Tattoos Have Transformed From Mom To Artwork Of The 21st Century
Written by: Bree Levine | Distributed: 2010-02-25 | Word Count: 554 | Page Views: 6199 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 0.50
You could call it a 21st century art form: people use their bodies as living displays of what they care about in the form of pictorial art. Over time, tattoo artists have become more and more sophisticated, able to create complex and well-executed designs.

The Best Traditions And Advice For The Tattooing Experience
Written by: Eileen Howerton | Distributed: 2010-02-24 | Word Count: 566 | Page Views: 4610 | Votes: 4 | Rating: 0.25
The ritual of tattooing and adorning the body with ink and color has been a tradition for centuries. Tattooing is definitely not a fad, or a practice reserved to any particular element of society. It is a tradition that has been found in all parts of the world, in different sects of society.

Shopping Online to Save Time and Money
Written by: Janet Davis | Distributed: 2009-12-31 | Word Count: 880 | Page Views: 4589 | Votes: 4 | Rating: 1.50
There is a certain convenience in shopping from the comfort of one's own home, a convenience that has been met in the past through mail-order catalogs, shopping television channels, and home-delivered grocery services. With the advent of the Internet and the World Wide Web, this trend has reached its culmination and most elegant expression yet.

Most Viewed "Shopping" Articles

Pearl Necklace Clasps
Written by: Norma Jones | Distributed: 2006-08-04 | Word Count: 1546 | Page Views: 28870 | Votes: 58 | Rating: 2.69
The clasp on a strand of pearls is both the frosting and sugar sprinkles on a cake. In addition to keeping the necklace fastened, the clasp should also complement you and your pearls. As your necklace and bracelet are regularly restrung, you can also update the clasps to meet your changing needs.

Be Prepared - The Pros And Cons of Non-Lethal Self-Defense Weapons
Written by: Brodie Abbot | Distributed: 2006-11-14 | Word Count: 938 | Page Views: 20355 | Votes: 47 | Rating: 2.26
In today's world, there are many means by which people can protect themselves. When thinking about self-defense, many people only consider martial arts or firearms. In truth, these are only two options from an array of self-defense mechanisms available. Through increased use in recent years, the advantages and disadvantages of stun guns, tasers, and pepper spray have become clear. All three items offer non-lethal means of protection, but one of them may be more appropriate than the others in a given situation.

Real and Imitation Pearls
Written by: Norma Jones | Distributed: 2006-06-22 | Word Count: 773 | Page Views: 14636 | Votes: 37 | Rating: 2.76
We are often asked how to tell if pearls are real or imitation. To start, we'll need to look at pearl growth and different types of imitation pearls. Then, we'll look at different pearl tests.

Alberta Angling Tournaments: Spectacular Scenery, Big Purses
Written by: Travel Alberta | Distributed: 2006-10-30 | Word Count: 963 | Page Views: 11447 | Votes: 14 | Rating: 2.36
Alberta's fishing tournaments pit angler against angler in a quest for the biggest shimmering walleye and a slice of the $60,600 (Cdn) in prize money.

Emma Watson Is A Real Sweet Pea
Written by: Wesley Berry, AAF | Distributed: 2008-02-06 | Word Count: 424 | Page Views: 10766 | Votes: 31 | Rating: 2.16
Harry Potter co-star Emma Watson, who plays super-smart Hermione Granger, turned sweet sixteen on April 15, 2006. From all accounts, she's as sweet as any sixteen-year-old can be. So sweet, in fact, that her birth flower is the sweet pea!

Celebrities And Their Favorite Flower Finds
Written by: Wesley Berry, AAF | Distributed: 2007-12-19 | Word Count: 756 | Page Views: 10561 | Votes: 11 | Rating: 2.00
While we all have our own choices of favorite flowers, the top picks for the latest flower trends and bouquets take more than a trip to the local florist.

How To Choose The Right Mold Testing Firm
Written by: Daryl Watters | Distributed: 2007-07-05 | Word Count: 566 | Page Views: 10465 | Votes: 22 | Rating: 2.59
You may be ill because of mold in your home or place of employment, your property value may fall because of mold that bleach and paint just cannot control. If you have a compromised immune system mold may even grow in you lungs or other parts of your body in the form of a systemic fungal infection. However, no requirements exist for mold inspectors nor mold remediators in most states. When choosing a mold testing firm be sure that the professional is familiar with the following.

Bosses Day: 25 Wallet-Friendly Gift Ideas
Written by: Darlene Arechederra | Distributed: 2006-08-23 | Word Count: 799 | Page Views: 10144 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 2.88
Bosses Day is right around the corner again -- but no need to panic! You still have plenty of time to find a great gift. The good news is that finding the perfect gift for your boss doesn't need to drain your wallet. Read on for some practical and low-cost gift ideas, including gifts for bosses with special circumstances.

How To Tell If Your Clothes Are Dirty
Written by: Theresa Bane | Distributed: 2008-05-28 | Word Count: 1984 | Page Views: 9382 | Votes: 20 | Rating: 3.35
If you are the type of person who wears clothes, like, t-shirts for example, than this is an article for you. You may not be aware of it, but your favorite t-shirt that has a clever or funny saying emblazoned across it's width can actually reach a level of funk that requires it to be laundered.

Why Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Written by: Robert Vayner | Distributed: 2007-09-24 | Word Count: 641 | Page Views: 8289 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 3.00
Silver jewelry speaks to your soul. Silver jewelry shines. Silver is cool, inviting and has been molded into jewelry pieces for centuries. Sterling silver accentuates your clothing, especially when worn with black or other dark colors. And best of all, it's affordable!

Highest Ranked "Shopping" Articles

How To Tell If Your Clothes Are Dirty
Written by: Theresa Bane | Distributed: 2008-05-28 | Word Count: 1984 | Page Views: 9382 | Votes: 20 | Rating: 3.35
If you are the type of person who wears clothes, like, t-shirts for example, than this is an article for you. You may not be aware of it, but your favorite t-shirt that has a clever or funny saying emblazoned across it's width can actually reach a level of funk that requires it to be laundered.

Private Label Bottled Water And School Fund Raising
Written by: Marcus Stout | Distributed: 2007-04-24 | Word Count: 1130 | Page Views: 6688 | Votes: 11 | Rating: 3.18
Like most organizations, schools in the United States are subject to constant budget stress. Important athletic and scholastic programs are subject to budget cuts as demographics change and taxpayers become increasingly budget aware. As a result, schools include fund raising resources in their planning for programs.

Tiny Treasures
Written by: Jodi Goldberg | Distributed: 2008-05-22 | Word Count: 719 | Page Views: 2989 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 3.17
Jewelry is a delightfully appealing way to mark a moment in time with your child.

Buying Pearl Jewelry: The Man's Guide To Buying Pearl Jewelry For The Woman Of Your Dreams
Written by: Amanda Raab | Distributed: 2007-06-18 | Word Count: 753 | Page Views: 2280 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 3.10
Buying pearl jewelry for your wife or girlfriend is one of the most thoughtful, meaningful and romantic gestures you can ever make, Few items can express your lasting love and devotion like a special ring, necklace, bracelet or pair of ear rings made from pearls. The magic, mystique and enduring appeal of pearl jewelry make it a natural gift for special occasions and milestones in your loved one's life.

Taguabella Beautiful Fair Trade Jewellery
Written by: Linda Garrould | Distributed: 2009-03-03 | Word Count: 267 | Page Views: 3834 | Votes: 44 | Rating: 3.05
This article introduces the Beautiful new Fair Trade Jewellery range from Taguabella.

Lindsay Lohan's Color Sense
Written by: Wesley Berry, AAF | Distributed: 2008-03-27 | Word Count: 400 | Page Views: 4632 | Votes: 10 | Rating: 3.00
Young movie starlet Lindsay Lohan has recently begun to be noticed for her fashion sense, including her oft-changing hair color. The use of color is certainly important in the fashion industry, but there's another industry where it's perhaps even more important-the floral industry.

Tea: Ordering Green Tea Online
Written by: Jon M. Stout | Distributed: 2007-06-05 | Word Count: 890 | Page Views: 5724 | Votes: 8 | Rating: 3.00
If you've started to become a green tea enthusiast, no doubt you've realized that there are an overwhelming number of green teas from which to choose. Just the number of green teas varieties in China are too many to list. You may have an interest in trying them all – but that will take you quite a while!

Get Peace Of Mind With These 10 Questions For Your Jeweler
Written by: Marc Choyt | Distributed: 2007-09-06 | Word Count: 1039 | Page Views: 3771 | Votes: 9 | Rating: 3.00
Many consumers want to purchase ethically sourced jewelry yet they do not know enough about this emerging product category to even begin to talk to their jewelry. This article provides knowledge and the right questions to empower the consumer interested in purchasing social responsible jewelry.

Why Sterling Silver Jewelry?
Written by: Robert Vayner | Distributed: 2007-09-24 | Word Count: 641 | Page Views: 8289 | Votes: 6 | Rating: 3.00
Silver jewelry speaks to your soul. Silver jewelry shines. Silver is cool, inviting and has been molded into jewelry pieces for centuries. Sterling silver accentuates your clothing, especially when worn with black or other dark colors. And best of all, it's affordable!

How I Sold My Car Using Live Chat
Written by: Alexia Corzine | Distributed: 2008-12-18 | Word Count: 585 | Page Views: 2323 | Votes: 7 | Rating: 3.00
If you are looking to sell a car but don't want to deal with the strangers calling, stuck in a lease or payments and need to sell? I found a quick and easy way to sell my car and still get the best price for it.











Download an eBook today
 
Directory Navigation
Locate By Category:

ALL Categories
Arts & Crafts
Arts & Entertainment
Automotive
Business - Offline
Business - Online
Career
Computers
Education
Family
Finance
Food & Drink
Health & Wellness
Home & Garden
Humor
Internet
Nature & Pets
Real Estate
Religion
Self Improvement
Shopping
Society
Sports & Recreation
Technology
Travel & Leisure
Uncategorized
World Events
Writing & Speaking

Change Number of Results:
50 - 100 - 200 - 500
Article Reprint Rights
Creative Commons License

This work is
licensed under a
Creative Commons
License


You are not required to show the creative commons license notice when you reprint this work.
Article Statistics
Word Count: 790

Total Views: 4769

Article Rating: 2.55 of 5
Votes Cast: 11

More Articles By Author:



Last Distribution Date:
2007-05-04 10:00:00

Internal ID: #4805





All Articles are Copyright © 2001-2023 of the Defined Authors.

All other material and images on this site are:
Copyright © 2001-2023, ThePhantomWriters.com