Standby Generators
A generator will definitely help avoid any loss or inconvenience resulting from an extensive power outage, but special precautions need to be addressed to prevent the injury or death to power line workers or to your family.
To properly install a standby generator large enough to power a whole house, a double-throw disconnect is needed to isolate your new temporary power source from the main power lines feeding your home or buildings. Improper installation also risks damage to the generator when electrical service is restored.
When you use electricity from Nishnabotna Valley REC's lines, the transformer at your location steps the voltage down from 7,200 to the 120 and 240 volts used in your home. When you run a generator without a double-throw switch installed on your system, you may feed 120 volt current back into the transformer. The transformer then steps the voltage up to 7,200 potentially giving a lethal shock to anyone who contacts a damaged power line that may be lying on the ground.
A double-throw switch must be sized according to the rating of your service entrance equipment. To insure proper installation of a standby generator and compliance with the National Electric Code, please contact a qualified electrician.
