Hawkeye Rec - The Power Is Yours, Electric Cooperative, Cresco Iowa
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Keep these in mind when using portable generators

Also, keep these things in mind when using a portable generator:

  • Read the manufacturer’s instructions and learn how to operate and shut off your generator before you need to use it.
  • Make sure the extension cord you use is in good shape and rated for a load greater than the total wattage of all connected appliances and other devices (125 volts x amps = watts).
  • Keep the generator dry, and don’t operate it indoors or in an enclosed or partially enclosed area such as a garage or porch. Generators quickly can produce high levels of deadly carbon monoxide gas.
  • Keep children and pets away from the generator when it’s running.
  • Practice power management. For example, when the power is out for several hours or longer, use the generator to run the refrigerator every few hours so food won’t spoil – instead of just powering lights in your home all day long.
  • Give your generator several breaks during the day. Most portable generators aren’t designed to run 24/7, so shut down your unit several times a day to let it cool down.
  • Always switch the engine off and allow it to cool before adding fuel in a well-ventilated area. Take care not to contaminate the fuel tank with dirt or water.
  • Turn off the generator’s circuit breaker before starting, so the load doesn’t draw current until the generator is running smoothly. Turn off the breaker before stopping the generator.
  • Test the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) on the generator every time you fire up the engine.

 

 

 

 

Service Request
Hawkeye REC
24049 State Highway 9
PO Box 90
Cresco, IA 52136-0090
Toll-free: (800) 658-2243
24-Hour Outage: (800) 927-5265
Phone: (563) 547-3801
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. M-F
E-mail: info@hawkeyerec.com
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