Honda Portable Generators: Safety Tips

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Honda portable generators offer a wide variety of options for use, ranging from the provision of power while camping to running essential devices and appliances during power outages. As is the same with all power equipment, the safe operation of these generators will optimize their usability as well as their length of service.

Safety tips for Honda portable generators include:

• Never operate a generator inside a home or garage – All fuel-based generators emit exhaust that contains carbon monoxide, so be sure its operating location is a safe distance away from doors, windows, and any other openings to the house.
• Shelter your generator – Protect your generator from too much moisture, dirt, etc. to allow for efficient operation and proper grounding. Make sure the shelter is on a level foundation and has several feet of clearance on all sides.
• Maximize ventilation – Be that your generator is situated in an area that has plenty of ventilation to keep it from overheating and to prevent the accumulation of exhaust.
• Do not refuel the generator while the unit is in operation – Refuel only when the generator is off and has had plenty of time to cool down.
• Do not top off the tank when adding fuel – As a generator warms up, fuel in the tank will expand. Leave some room in the tank to allow for this expansion.
• Do not connect your generator directly to a wall outlet – Instead; plug your appliances into the generator using heavy duty extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.
• Familiarize yourself with the appliances and devices that you will need to run during an outage – This should actually be done prior to purchasing a portable generator to ensure that the generator doesn’t get overloaded by powering too many appliances, devices, etc.
• Before putting the generator away for extended storage, run the generator until empty – This prevents thickened fuel sludge from developing during extended storage. Another option is to add a fuel stabilizer to the tank which can be warranted if the fuel level is high.

Try to familiarize yourself with the owner’s manual prior to use so that you’re not scrambling for instructions on operating your generator as heavy weather or an outage begins. For more information on Honda portable generators, visit: http://www.harborpowerhouse.com/