Backup Generator Safety
PUD policy on Customer Generation
If a generator is on your agenda, here are some safety tips to consider.
Generators can be installed two ways. They can be installed permanently or used temporarily during power outages. In either case, you must install the generator properly to protect electrical workers, your family, and your property.
You must always ensure there is no potential for your generator to be connected to the PUD electrical system. If this isolation does not exist, the generator's electrical energy could backfeed through your panel, meter, and service wire to the transformer, and generate up to 7,200 volts in the power lines. This energy could backfeed to your neighbor's service and damage equipment in their home or injure or kill PUD crew members working on the line. Also when power is restored to the electrical system, it will feed into your home or business and could permanently destroy your generator if it is connected.
For temporary installations, generators must never be plugged into a home outlet because they will then not be isolated from the PUD's electric supply. You should plug the devices you wish to run directly into the generator with no connection to your regular house wiring.
Permanently installed generators that switch on as soon as the power goes out require a control panel and transfer switch that automatically isolates the generator from the PUD's power supply and turns the generator off when power is restored. This ensures there is no connection to the PUD electrical system. Another option is installing an emergency circuit. This circuit is not connected to your house system in any way and has separate plug-ins for your devices during an outage. You would have to manually plug your devices into this circuit when an outage occurs. The circuit must be designed with a load capacity not to exceed the output of the generator. Always check and follow state, local, national fire and electric codes. The most important thing to remember is it is safest to have a licensed electrician install your generator switching system.
Because portable generators are an electrical installation, local permits may be required. The local electrical inspector must inspect and approve installations. Please contact a licensed electrical contractor to install permanently installed generators. Remember to notify the PUD's engineering department (or call 773-7612 or 800-548-8357) if you have an emergency generator.
For a copy of the PUD policy on customer generation and information on standby equipment, please contact Sharon (or call 773-7622 or 800-548-8357, toll-free).
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Last updated: 12/2009
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