When a storm knocks out your power, causing an outage, you must start your backup generator quickly to restore power. You may have purchased one of your first backup power generators a few years ago and have forgotten how it starts and works.
Please keep a copy of these instructions safe and at hand. You may need to refer to them when you start your generator in such a situation.
Preparation
- Read the owner’s manual to relearn starting the generator outside and set it to automatic.
- Verify any damage or gas leaks.
- It’s a good idea to look for damage if a storm hits your building.
- You should check oil and gas levels.
- Make sure the cables are correctly connected.
- Check for all lids and cable covers and wear gloves just in case before starting the generator.
Installation
- The fuel for most typical backup power generators is gas. Always make sure to use FRESH gas when filling up your generator.
- Remove any cables that are attached to the generator.
- Be sure to unplug all cords before turning on the generator.
- On the generator’s fuel valve, turn it so that you can turn on the gasoline valve.
- Activate choke
- You should move the choke rod from left to right.
Starting The Engine
For many generators, turning the engine on requires flipping a switch or pressing the ignition button until it starts. Essentially, when you pull the rebound cord, this will turn on like an engine switch.
- Retract the cord.
- You start the engine when you pull the recoil rope.
- Before connecting any cords, give the generator a few minutes to operate.
- The extension cord you use must have the correct gauge.
- Extension cables with a more significant number of gauges are designed for light-duty appliances.
Now that you have learned how to start a backup generator safely, you should consider upgrading to more reliable and efficient generators from OHIO Generator Systems. Trust is what makes them the best.
