When a power outage happens, the generator becomes the ultimate lifesaver. It ensures that appliances and essential systems in a home or office continue to function even when electricity is not available. However, as important as the generator is during an outage, the question of what happens to the generator when the power comes back on is also crucial. It’s natural to wonder if a sudden surge of electricity from the power grid can damage the generator, and what steps to take to avoid this. In this article, we will discuss what happens to a generator when the power comes back on and what you should do to maximize the lifespan of your generator.
The Generator’s Response to Power Restoration
When the utility company restores power after an outage, a sudden and significant surge of electricity flows back into the power grid, and this can create a brief but potentially harmful electrical disturbance in the electrical appliances that are connected to the grid, including your generator.
Most modern generators are designed with a transfer switch mechanism that can sense when the power comes back on and automatically switch off the generator. This allows the generator to cool down and shut only a few seconds after power is restored. This mechanism prevents any damage to the generator from electrical surges when the power comes back on.
What Happens When a Generator Stays Connected After the Power is Restored
If the generator stays connected to the household or office electrical system when the power is restored, it becomes a parallel power source, and this can pose a risk. The reason is that the generator and power grid may not be in phase, and this can create a dangerous feedback loop.
In a feedback loop, the generator continues to supplement the remaining electrical load of the house that the grid is not supplying power to. At the same time, the power company is supplying electricity to the grid, and if the electricity from the generator and the grid mixes, it can create an electrical shock. This can happen if there is a connection between the generator and the power grid.
Protecting Your Generator When the Power Comes Back On
To protect your generator from any electrical damage, you must disconnect it from the system when the power comes back on. If you have a manual transfer switch, you will need to switch back to the power grid after power is restored. However, if you have an automatic transfer switch, it’s crucial to have a professional install it, and it will automatically switch the generator off when it senses the power has restored.
Before switching back, ensure that all the electrical systems are off to prevent a sudden electricity surge, which could cause a short circuit or electrical fire. After shutting off the generator, allow it to cool down first before putting it back into storage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when the power comes back on, it’s vital to remember that a generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage. However, if the generator stays connected to the household or office electrical system, it can pose a risk of electrical shock. It’s crucial to disconnect the generator from the system after power is restored, regardless of whether you have a manual or automatic transfer switch. Always remember to switch off any electrical systems before connecting back to the power grid to avoid any electrical surges. With these simple steps, you can protect your generator and maximize its lifespan.
Further reading: Should Portable Generators Be Kept Indoors While In Use?
Frequently Asked Questions: What Happens To A Generator When The Power Comes Back On?
1. Is it safe to leave the generator on when the power comes back on?
It is not safe to leave your generator on when the power comes back on. Generators are not designed to work continuously, which can cause them to overheat and fail. Turn your generator off and disconnect it from any electrical devices before the power is restored.
2. What should I do when the power comes back on?
When the power comes back on, turn off the main breaker on your generator and unplug it from any electrical devices. Wait for the generator to cool down before turning it off completely. Once the generator has cooled down, drain any remaining fuel and store it in a safe place.
3. Can the power coming back on damage my generator?
Yes, the power coming back on can damage your generator if it is not properly disconnected. If your generator is still connected to your home’s electrical system when the power comes back on, it can cause a power surge that can damage the generator and any connected devices.
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