With severe weather conditions prevalent across Australia, now might be the opportune time to consider investing in a generator for your home. Generators offer essential backup power during outages caused by storms or adverse weather. To aid in this decision, here’s a comprehensive buying guide that covers various aspects of generators, from types and suitable applications to essential safety measures and proper placement. Read on to ensure you make an informed choice and safely navigate the usage of generators during challenging weather situations.

The first question to ask yourself is will the generator be:

• Used with directly connected plug-in appliances; or
• Connected via a plug and appliance inlet to your home via a changeover switch (installed by a qualified electrical contractor); or
• A hard wired connection to your home via a changeover switch (installed by a qualified electrical contractor).

If you will be purchasing a generator for use with plug-in equipment like hand-held equipment (e.g. a drill) you will need to purchase a generator that incorporates an RCD (Safety Switch) or is an inverter generator.

If you will be purchasing a generator to plug in or hard wire directly into your home via a changeover switch, an RCD should not be incorporated into the generator. An inverter generator would be the most suitable type, like the Honda EU range or Yamaha EF range for example. In this case the equipment in your home will be controlled by the RCD’s installed in your switchboard.

The lead

If you are using a plug in type generator the supply lead from the generator to your house will need to be the correct size for the generator – if unsure check with your electrical contractor.

The supply lead will also need to be installed to be protected against any mechanical damage, for example installed in a suitable wiring enclosure.

Suicide lead fact sheet

This fact sheet has been created to highlight the dangers of the use of extension leads with a male plug fitted to both ends commonly called a suicide lead, to connect a generator to a house.

Where to put the generator

Gas or fume poisoning is not to be taken lightly, therefore generators need to be placed in well ventilated areas, preferably outside where exhaust gases, smoke or fumes cannot reach dangerous levels or enter any areas that people may occupy.  Generators must also not be exposed to the weather unless they are suitably protected.

Care must be taken with the positioning of the generator to make sure refueling can be performed easily.  High temperature surfaces or equipment that may emit arcs or sparks may cause ignition when refueling.

Other information

Always read and follow your manufacturer’s instructions before using your generator and make sure your generator is properly maintained so it is ready for use when it is needed.

Earth stakes are not required or recommended on a generator as per AS 3010.  If unsure, please check with your electrical contractor.

In most cases the best all-purpose generator is an inverter type generator but if you have questions about the type of generator that is best for you, you should consult your local Master Electrician.

Resources 

• Generators – MEA Buying Guide
• Suicide Leads Fact Sheet