Power outages are unexpected annoyances. They interrupt the flow of everyday tasks, work time, and recreational activities. Having the right generator handy can make all the difference. Once you’ve purchased yours, you need to make sure you’re knowledgeable about generator operation and safety measures. Take a look at these tips to help you properly handle surprise outages.
Tip: Read your owner’s manual
Always read your owner’s manual before operating your generator. It’s important for you to know how to operate and care for your specific model. Reading your manual has multiple benefits, from where to locate and how to use your generator’s controls to eliminating fuel related issues.
Tip: Properly start your generator
Move your generator outside and, if necessary, check the fuel level, oil level, and air filter. Turn the circuit breaker off, turn the fuel valve on, and start your generator. Give it a few minutes to warm up before turning the circuit breaker back on. If applicable, connect appliances or the transfer switch.
Tip: Properly stop your generator
It may seem like a no-brainer to shut off your generator. To prevent unwanted issues for your machine you should take the time to properly stop your generator. Make sure you follow these three steps: turn off the circuit breaker, turn off the engine switch, and turn off the fuel valve.
Tip: Properly store and transport your generator
Turn your generator’s fuel valve off. If this valve is left on gasoline may get into the engine crankcase and dilute the engine oil, which can result in engine damage. After you’ve properly shut off your machine, allow it to cool for 15 minutes before moving it. Parts of the machine become extremely hot while in use, and remain hot after the engine has stopped. Don’t store your unit until it has completely cooled. Always store your generator upright.
Once you’ve read your manual and learned to properly start and stop your generator, you’re still not out of the woods. You also need to familiarize yourself with methods of safety while operating your generator.
Tip: Operate your generator outside
Always, always run your generator outside, and close all windows and doors. Since your machine is powered by gasoline, it produces carbon dioxide. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, run the generator outdoors and well away from the house. Don’t attempt to operate it inside the garage, house, basement, etc.
Tip: Give your generator space
Proper ventilation is important so leave at least 3 feet of space around the top and sides of the generator. Again, never confine the unit in a box or other cramped spaces. Make sure your generator is resting on a firm, level surface at all times. Additionally, make sure it’s kept dry. Never operate in wet conditions like rain or snow, or near a sprinkler system or pool. Never operate your machine with wet hands. Keeping your generator dry at all times is the best way to avoid possible electrocution.
Tip: Beware of improper use of fuel
Putting the wrong fuel in your machine is a common mistake among generator owners. Honda engines are designed to run on unleaded fuel, which reduces deposit build up in the generator’s muffler, valves, spark plugs and spark arrestor. Use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher. Never use stale or contaminated gasoline and don’t use an oil/gas mixture.
Tip: Turn engine off and let cool before touching
Refuel your generator only when the engine is off and it is in a well-ventilated area. We’ve already mentioned carbon monoxide poisoning. Additionally, the gasoline in your machine is flammable and explosive under certain conditions. Make sure you don’t over fill and clean up and spilled fuel. Just as you operate your generator in a well-ventilated area, you also need to store it in a well-ventilated area because gasoline fumes can collect and ignite.
Regardless of which piece of equipment you’re using, make sure you always read your owner’s manual and practice basic operation and safety tips.
You May Also Enjoy These Articles:
Buyer’s Guide to a Portable Generator
Convert Amps To Watts For Generator Use
6 Ways to Prepare For Winter Storms
Why Weingartz?
Weingartz, family owned and operated, began in 1945 as a farm supply store for local Michigan families. In the 1970s, we began to focus exclusively on outdoor power equipment. Over time, we morphed into the “power equipment superstore” that now defines all of our locations. The staff and experts at Weingartz work diligently to provide the best service possible and give honest and helpful advice to each and every customer.
Weingartz also sells parts for all outdoor power equipment at https://weingartz.com/parts-lookup.
Weingartz
6585 Dixie Hwy.
Clarkston, MI 48346
(248) 620-5258
info@weingartz.com
Connect With Us!
https://www.facebook.com/WeingartzLawnToSnow
http://pinterest.com/MrWeingartz
Learn More About Specific Honda Generator Models
Sign up for our electronic monthly newsletter for discounts and money-saving tips.
