What important safety considerations should I know about generators in winter?
Sponsored
According to Aaron Briden, key winter safety tips include: Never run portable generators indoors or in garages (carbon monoxide risk). Standby units need a cold-weather kit and clear venting to prevent snow drifts. Use fresh stabilized fuel in portables and store it safely. If using propane for standby units, ensure a large enough tank for cold-weather vaporization and keep it topped up. Always use a code-compliant transfer switch or interlock—never back-feed power into the grid. A licensed electrician can help ensure safe installation.
Answered by Aaron Briden, Briden Electrical Services. Based on Standby vs. Portable Generators: How to Choose for an Eastern Ontario Winter.