Generator and Battery Backup Safety

To continue electrical power during an outage, there are many choices. Four common options include a professionally installed standby generator, home battery backup system, portable gasoline-powered generator and portable battery backup. Regardless of the generator or battery backup option you choose, it is essential that you take precautions for your safety and for the safety of the utility workers restoring the power.

Generators

Portable gasoline or diesel generators are useful when temporary or remote power is needed. Electric appliances, such as lights, refrigerators, freezers, modems and wireless routers, can be directly plugged into portable generators. Generators, as well as home battery backup systems that are directly connected to your home electric service, need to be installed by a licensed electrician. There have been injuries and fatalities when homeowners attempt to temporarily connect their generators to their home electric service. This can create a risk for those in the home and the installer, as well as the lineman working to restore service.

Battery Backup Systems

While directly connected generators use natural gas, propane or other fuels that can be refilled continuously or manually, battery backup systems are typically kept charged by your electric service prior to the outage and will provide a set number of days of backup power depending on the battery size and how well the homeowner conserves energy. Home battery backup systems can be installed with solar panels to provide charging prior to and during an outage.

Carbon Monoxide Precautions

One of the biggest dangers of fuel generators is carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas. Many people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning because their generator was not adequately ventilated. Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces, such as garages, crawl spaces and basements. Do not use a generator outdoors if it is placed near doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to enter and build up in occupied spaces.

A major advantage of portable battery backup products is that they have no exhaust and generate no carbon monoxide. Battery-based backup systems can be used and placed indoors with no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

No matter what system you choose be sure to plan ahead by having your backup power product fully charged or fueled, read all installation and user manuals, do not overload circuits, and, most importantly, never run a generator indoors in an enclosed space or near doors and windows.

Author: Mark Fullen, professor and director, WVU Safety and Health Extension

Last Reviewed: January 2025

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