Generators

Don't wait for the next weather disaster to purchase a generator for your home or farm. Buying a generator in an emergency is never a good idea. The price usually increases with demand and safe installation and use of the generator are often ignored when installed quickly. Each situation for standby generation is unique. Please call Hawkeye REC if you have any questions about purchasing or installing a new standby generator. It is very important your generator is hooked up correctly, or it could be deadly for you or our linemen when they are working to restore power. The safety of transferring your power needs to an emergency generator is your responsibility and needs to be taken seriously.

Are you planning to purchase a new standby generator?
Please refer to this PDF file if you have plans to purchase a new standby generator and then call Hawkeye's office if you still have questions or concerns.
Guidelines for Selecting the Right Size Generator for Your Application (PDF File)

Do you know how to hook up a standby generator correctly?
Please carefully read this information BEFORE you hook up your standby generator. It can be very dangerous if not done correctly. It is a requirement of the National Electric Code (NEC) that a double throw switch be installed on your service where the standby generator is connected. When installed properly, the double throw switch ensures there is no "backfeed" when running your generator.

Safety tips when using portable generators:

• 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 are not 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.

Call Hawkeye's office if you have any questions.