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circuit breaker box. This kind of equipment should be professionally installed, MUST be inspected for safety, and is beyond the scope of the discussion here. Contact PG&E for a brochure on the subject, and consult with a licensed electrician before initiating such a project. Please not that if you install a backup generator that comes on automatically when PG&E power goes out, you need to contact the West Almanor Fire Department to have a warning sticker placed by your main breaker, alerting emergency personnel to that fact. Otherwise there is a distinct risk of electrocution to firefighters if there should ever be a fire at your residence. NEVER operate a portable generator inside your house It needs to be set up in an OUTSIDE location that allows you to conveniently run extension cords to the necessary appliances. In picking a suitable spot, remember that even a small generator can produce considerable noise along with exhaust fumes. Always use a HEAVY extension cord between the generator and the appliance. "Contractor grade" cords are probably best, since they are intended for use with generators on construction sites. Lightweight cords simply can't handle the current demands and will rapidly overheat, leading to fire safety concerns and short circuits. Some people have installed separate, generator-only wiring between their generator location and special outlets at a few key locations inside the house. This avoids having to string extension cords from the outside. And since the generator wiring is completely separate from the primary house wiring, there is no chance of generator power getting into the main lines, which would pose a hazard to PG&E service personnel. Gasoline in the generator tank or in storage containers should be treated with an additive such as "Sta-Bil" to prevent it from deteriorating and gumming up the engine.
● Generator Start-Up Checklist:
Refer to your generator operating manual for instructions for your specific brand and model. If you don't have a manual, try the following generic checklist.
Before starting, check: ● Generator in a safe, well ventilated location ● Extension cord(s) attached; inside appliance(s) OFF ● Engine oil level OK ● Fuel quantity in tank OK ● Output power circuit breaker(s) or switch(es) OFF
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