Even if severe storms knock out your primary power source, you can still receive electricity if you have a backup propane generator. Generators keep your everyday home essentials running smoothly, from cooking appliances to heating systems. However, you must handle the gas properly to prevent issues. Here are a few safety tips to remember when using a propane generator.

A Safety Guide for Propane Generators

1. Check Before Storms

If you plan to use your generator for emergencies, you should inspect it regularly. Ensure that it has enough fuel to last your home for at least a week. Even if you haven’t had to use it before, you should run the generator for half an hour once a month to lubricate the moving parts and check that it is working properly. This way you will always be ready for unexpected outages.

2. Keep It Outside

Never place generators in the home or in enclosed areas like garages and carports. Unless it has a specific design and approval for indoor use, propane appliances should not be inside. This includes grills, portable heaters, and fire pits. Indoor use can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as significantly increase your risk of a fire.

3. Store Bottles Properly

Like generators, you should store propane bottles outdoors or in a space away from the home, such as a shed. Place them in a cool, shaded area, and keep them on a flat surface sitting upright. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources, which can ignite the gas, potentially resulting in an explosion. Do not smoke or use flames around the bottles.

4. Never Touch Wet Generators

Outdoor generators can get wet during storms. If water is surrounding your generator, do not attempt to turn it on. These appliances have electrical components and turning them on could result in electrocution when you touch it. Wait until the generator dries completely before inspecting or using it.

5. Use Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Every home should have a carbon monoxide detector, and this is especially necessary if you use propane or natural gas to power your appliances. Even with the generator outside, this will ensure that the fumes are not entering the home. You should have a detector for each level of your house. Test your alarms at least once a month and replace the batteries as necessary.

If you need propane for your home generator, Martindale Guadalupe Gas Company will provide you with all of the gas your family needs to live comfortably. They have been serving Caldwell County, TX, and the surrounding area for more than 70 years, and they offer safe, affordable, and convenient options for propane delivery. As a leading area supplier, they provide fuel on a customized schedule that works for you. Learn more about their products and services online. Call (512) 357-6497 to schedule a delivery.