Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Power Equipment Fuel (Optional)

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Using a Portable Generator

So how do portable generators work? Unlike home standby generators, which are permanently wired and automatically turn on when needed, a portable generator can be taken with you and is easy to replace.

Preparation is key for using a small generator. It’s best to have a generator long before a storm hits. Once you know why you should own a generator, make sure you select a generator that adequately suits your power-supply needs. Read our Portable Generator Buying Guide and How to Choose a Solar Generator to find the best emergency generator for your space, learn how to estimate your power needs and get tips on keeping it ready for use.

Don’t wait until the next outage to learn how to use your small portable generator. For generators powered by gasoline, propane or those that can run on either, make sure you have a good supply of fuel on hand. Solar generators need time to charge, either via solar panels or, for some models, a household power outlet. Solar generators that can function as wind generators will need time and windy conditions to charge. Make sure you keep a solar generator charged and ready for use. Test any generator regularly to make sure it’s working properly.

General steps for using a gas-powered or solar generator are listed below, but always follow your generator manufacturer’s instructions for use and power.

Shop Portable Generators Shop Portable Solar Generators Shop Wind Generators Shop Home Standby Generators Shop Generator Accessories

Caution

Safety is critical when operating a portable generator. Thoroughly read and understand the instructions provided by the manufacturer before turning it on.

How to Use a Portable Generator

In order to understand how to connect a portable generator to a house safely, you’ll need to know the power needs for your home. Make a list of the items you want to power with a portable generator. Consider the refrigerator, lights, media devices and important chargers. Check the owner’s manuals or data plate attached to each device to determine the running/rated wattage, or how much it takes to run the item. For larger appliances, like your refrigerator, you’ll also need to know the starting/surge wattage, or how much power it takes to start the motor.

Combine the watts needed to start the largest appliance motor and the total running wattage for needed items to determine the number of watts you need the portable generator to power. Compare this information to the starting and running watts the generator can supply.

Caution

Make sure the total wattage of the appliances and other devices you need to power doesn’t overload the generator or your extension cords. Overloading a generator can lead to permanent or costly damage to the items you’re temporarily powering.

Read about what to do during and after a power outage.

A Craftsman generator on a driveway twenty feet from a brick house.

If you’re using a gasoline-, propane- or natural-gas-powered generator, place it outdoors at least 20 feet away from the house on a flat, stable surface, with its exhaust venting away from windows and doorways. If you’re operating the generator during inclement weather, it may need a cover or a shelter.

Since it operates without carbon monoxide (CO) emissions, a solar generator can typically be used indoors. Check the manual for instructions on placement. For example, you’ll need to place it in a dry area, and you’ll need to keep it away from high temperatures — away from a fireplace, heating device, etc.

Caution

Fuel-powered generators emit CO, which is a dangerous, odorless gas. Don’t set up one of these generators indoors or in any other enclosed space, like a garage or crawlspace. Avoid using one of these generators if your home isn’t equipped with CO detectors on every floor.

Make sure you use heavy-duty exterior extension cords designed for use with generators.

For a gas-powered generator, run the cords through a window or door to the unit setup outside but don’t connect them to the generator yet.

If you want to run a hard-wired appliance, such as a well pump or furnace, have an electrician install a power-transfer switch in advance. This system allows you to power items on your actual circuit breaker panel.

Tip

For more on power cord safety, read Power Cord Safety Tips.

Caution

Never plug a generator into a wall outlet. The emergency generator’s current can reach the utility line, creating an extreme hazard for those working to restore power.

Severe storms can cause gas leaks. If you smell gas, call a professional to repair the lines before you turn anything on.

Before starting the generator, make sure there are no cords plugged into the unit and the fuel tank is full. For a gasoline-powered model, learn more about fueling outdoor power equipment before you add fuel for the first time.

To start a fuel-powered generator, turn the fuel valve to the On position then set the on/off switch to the On position. Pull the choke handle out to the Choke position. Push and hold the start switch in the Start position until the generator starts. Gradually push the choke handle into the Run position and let the motor run for a while before plugging items in.

A solar generator starts easily with the press of a button or flip of a switch, but there may be settings you need to change to activate individual outlets.

Caution

Always store fuel away from the generator for safety. Don’t refuel a generator before the unit has had a chance to cool down.

Check the manual for any procedures around connecting devices and appliances that are specific to your generator. For example, you may need to start with an item that pulls the most power, such as a refrigerator, and let it run for a period of time before connecting anything else. Connect each item to the generator extension cord and then plug that extension cord into the generator housing.

With a solar model, you may be able to plug items directly into the unit.

When you need to add more fuel to a generator, turn appliances and electronics off and allow the generator to run a little longer. Then turn the generator off, flip the fuel switch off and unplug the extension cords. Allow the unit to cool off before refueling.

To recharge a solar generator, connect solar panels to the unit and place the panels in an area where they’ll receive several hours of sunlight each day. Depending on your generator and the location of the solar panels, you may be able to keep devices connected while charging. Charging times vary, depending on the generator, number and type of solar panels, and factors such as temperature and available sunlight. For a solar generator that can operate as a wind generator, make sure you have the right weather conditions to charge the unit appropriately.

Tip

For added safety at home, see How to Prepare for a Hurricane and How to Clean Up After a Hurricane, Tornado or Flood. Be sure to routinely check your generator for damage or other issues.

How to Use a Portable Generator

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Using a Portable Generator

How to Use a Portable Generator

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