You can use a portable generator to supply electricity to your appliances if an emergency exists during a power outage. But, if used improperly, a portable generator can kill you and the people who are restoring power to your home. It can also damage the connected appliances.

You might be asking how this is possible, so we hope the information below helps answer some of your questions and prevents a similar accident from occurring in the Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative service area.

How can it happen? If you connect a portable electric generator to your home’s wiring system, the energy it generates can flow back into MLEC’s power lines and electrocute workers or anyone else who comes in contact with the lines. Even a line that has been knocked down and is verified to be “dead” by MLEC could become energized without warning.

How can it be prevented? To avoid back feeding of electricity into utility systems, you must have a qualified, licensed electrician install a double-pole, double-throw transfer switch (see below) between the generator and utility power in compliance with all state and local electrical codes. Also, let MLEC know if you have a generator. This is information we can use for the safety of those working on power lines.

Why does it have to be inspected? It’s the law. Tennessee law requires a state wiring inspector approve any additions or changes to the wiring in your home. Installing a home transfer switch falls into that category.

MLEC understands the need for continuous power, but some situations out of our control can cause a power outage. If you use a generator to power your home during an outage or at any time, please make sure it is installed properly with a transfer switch. Your preventative actions can save your life, the life of a lineman, or an emergency responder or good neighbor trying to aid in the power restoration efforts.

Typical Installation for service entrance rated at 200 amperes or less

• Conductor sizes from generator to transfer switch will be determined by generator capacity.

• Over-current protection for the generator will be determined by generator capacity.

• Transfer switch shall be a double-throw type that breaks contact of ungrounded conductors. The neutral will not be broken by the switch.

• Transfer switch will be bonded to the service entrance ground with a #4 solid copper conductor.

• If the transfer switch is suitable for service equipment, the over current protection between the meter base and the transfer switch is not required.