Overview

Another Pittsburgh winter is just around the corner, and as any resident from Shadyside to the South Hills knows, that means unpredictable weather. A heavy blanket of snow can be beautiful, but it can also bring down power lines, leaving you and your family in the cold and dark. Power outages are more than just an inconvenience; they can be dangerous, cutting off heat, spoiling food, and disrupting communication. Fortunately, a home generator can be your family’s best friend during a winter storm, providing the power you need to stay safe, warm, and comfortable. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing, preparing, and safely operating a generator in Western Pennsylvania.

Choosing the Right Generator for Your Pittsburgh Home

The first step in preparing for a winter power outage is selecting the right generator for your needs. There are two main types of generators: portable and standby. The best choice for your home will depend on your budget, power needs, and the level of convenience you desire.

**Portable vs. Standby Generators**

Portable generators are the most common type of generator for home use. They are less expensive than standby generators and, as the name suggests, can be moved around. They run on gasoline, diesel, or propane and can be used to power a few essential appliances, such as a refrigerator, a space heater, and some lights. For a smaller home in a neighborhood like Squirrel Hill, a portable generator might be all you need to get through a short power outage. However, they require more effort to set up and operate, and you'll need to refuel them periodically.

Standby generators, on the other hand, are permanently installed outside your home, much like an air conditioning unit. They are connected directly to your home's electrical system and automatically turn on within seconds of a power outage. Standby generators run on natural gas or propane, so you don't have to worry about refueling them. They can power your entire home, including your furnace, well pump, and all your appliances. For a larger home in an area like Cranberry Township, a standby generator can provide peace of mind and ensure that your life is not disrupted during a power outage. While they are more expensive to purchase and install, the convenience and reliability they offer are unmatched.

**Sizing Your Generator**

Once you've decided on the type of generator, you need to determine the right size for your needs. Generators are sized in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW). To figure out what size generator you need, you'll need to calculate the total wattage of the appliances you want to power. You can usually find the wattage of an appliance on its label. Keep in mind that some appliances, like refrigerators and air conditioners, require a higher starting wattage than their running wattage.

Here's a quick guide to the approximate wattage of some common household appliances:

• Refrigerator: 600-800 watts\n• Sump Pump: 750-1500 watts\n• Furnace Fan: 750 watts\n• Space Heater: 1500 watts\n• Lights: 60-100 watts per bulb\n• Television: 100-300 watts\n• Computer: 200-400 watts

It's always a good idea to choose a generator that is slightly larger than your calculated needs to avoid overloading it. Overloading a generator can damage both the generator and your appliances.

Essential Winter Preparation for Your Generator

Once you have your generator, it's crucial to prepare it for the winter season. A little bit of maintenance before the first snowflake falls can save you a lot of headaches during a power outage.

**Pre-Season Maintenance Checklist**

Before winter arrives, go through this checklist to make sure your generator is ready to go:

• Inspect the generator: Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or frayed wires.\n• Change the oil and filter: Just like your car, your generator needs regular oil changes to keep it running smoothly.\n• Check the battery: If you have a standby generator, make sure the battery is fully charged and the connections are clean and tight.\n• Test the generator: Start the generator and let it run for a few minutes to make sure it's working properly.\n• Have an adequate supply of fresh fuel: If you have a gasoline-powered generator, make sure you have at least 5-10 gallons of fresh gasoline on hand. It's also a good idea to add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from going bad.

**Storing Your Generator and Fuel Safely**

When you're not using your generator, it's important to store it properly. If you have a portable generator, store it in a clean, dry place, such as a shed or garage. If you have a standby generator, make sure it's clear of any debris, such as leaves, snow, or ice.

Fuel storage is also a critical safety consideration. Never store gasoline in your home. Store it in a well-ventilated shed or detached garage, away from any heat sources. Use only approved gasoline containers and never fill them all the way to the top, as gasoline needs room to expand.

Operating Your Generator Safely During a Winter Storm

When a winter storm hits and the power goes out, your generator can be a lifesaver. But it's crucial to operate it safely to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, electrocution, and fire.

**The Dangers of Carbon Monoxide (CO)**

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. It's produced by the engine of your generator, and if it builds up in an enclosed space, it can quickly become fatal. NEVER run a generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows, doors, or vents. Always place your generator at least 20 feet away from your home, with the exhaust pointing away from any openings. It's also a good idea to install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially in sleeping areas.

**Proper Placement and Weather Protection**

In addition to the 20-foot rule, it's important to place your generator on a dry, level surface. Keep it away from snow and pooling water to prevent the risk of electrocution. If it's snowing or raining, you'll need to protect your generator from the elements. You can use a generator tent or a generator cover to keep it dry. Never operate a generator in wet conditions without proper protection.

**Electrical Safety and Preventing Backfeeding**

Backfeeding is a dangerous condition that can occur when a generator is improperly connected to a home's electrical system. It can send electricity back into the utility lines, creating a serious hazard for utility workers who are trying to restore power. To prevent backfeeding, you should never plug your generator directly into a wall outlet.

The safest way to connect a generator to your home is with a transfer switch. A transfer switch is a device that is installed next to your main electrical panel. It allows you to safely switch your home's power source from the utility grid to your generator. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires the use of a transfer switch for all standby generators under Article 702. While not required for portable generators, a transfer switch is still the safest and most convenient way to connect them to your home. An interlock kit is a less expensive alternative for portable generators that also prevents backfeeding, but a transfer switch offers more flexibility and safety.

If you don't have a transfer switch or interlock kit, you must use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords to connect your appliances directly to the generator. Make sure the extension cords are rated for the wattage of the appliances you're powering and that they are in good condition, with no cuts or frays.

When to DIY and When to Call a Professional Electrician

While there are some generator-related tasks that homeowners can safely perform, there are others that should always be left to a professional electrician.

**What Homeowners Can Do**

As a homeowner, you can safely perform routine maintenance on your generator, such as changing the oil and filter, checking the battery, and testing it periodically. You can also safely add fuel to your generator and start it up when you need it.

**When to Call a Licensed Electrician**

The installation of a standby generator and a transfer switch is a complex job that should always be done by a licensed electrician. A qualified electrician will ensure that your generator is installed safely and up to code. They will also be able to help you determine the right size generator for your needs and obtain any necessary permits. If you live in an older home in a neighborhood like Mt. Lebanon, it's especially important to have a professional inspect your electrical system to ensure it can handle the load of a generator. In Allegheny County, there may be additional local regulations regarding generator placement and noise levels, so it's always best to consult with a professional who is familiar with the local codes.

According to the City of Pittsburgh, a separate electrical permit is required for the installation of an exterior generator. This is not a project for the average DIYer. A licensed electrician will handle the permitting process and ensure that the installation meets all NEC and local requirements, including proper grounding and bonding to prevent electrical shocks.

Conclusion: Riding Out the Storm with Confidence

A home generator can be a valuable asset during a Pittsburgh winter, providing you with the power you need to stay safe and comfortable during a power outage. By choosing the right generator, preparing it for the winter season, and operating it safely, you can have peace of mind knowing that you're ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Remember to always prioritize safety, and when in doubt, call a licensed electrician. With a little bit of preparation, you can ride out the storm with confidence.