Before you purchase, install and use a generator during a power outage, check for these safety issues:
Backfeed: Never plug a generator into an electrical outlet- this could cause backfeed, which sends electricity from the generator, through the home’s wiring, out through the electric meter and energizes the power lines. Backfeed can injure or kill a utility worker repairing a power line.
Transfer Switch: When operating a generator, connecting appliances that are hard-wired to the house’s wiring system requires the use of a transfer switch. The switch will mechanically disconnect the household’s circuit from the utility’s power grid.
A transfer switch MUST be used to avoid backfeed into the utility’s power grid and is required by electric code.
Installation: Electric code requires that a licensed electrician install stationary generators that are permanently wired to the household’s electrical system. The owner of the generator must acquire an electrical permit, and the unit must be inspected.
Please contact WA State L&I for an inspection: (509) 886-6500