The Costco Connection - March/April 2008

Generator know-how
Back up your backup with knowledge of
proper operating and safety procedures

By Will Fifield

BACKUP GENERATORS can literally and figuratively save your bacon when storms or rolling blackouts temporarily knock out electrical service to your home. But when you buy a generator, be sure to get one that will deliver enough power for your needs.

To determine the wattage you will need, look at the labels on lighting, appliances and

For more information about
backup generator safety,
visit the following sources:

The Electrical
Safety Authority
www.esasafe.com/GeneralPublic/
sgi_004.php?s=23

The Canadian Red Cross
www.redcross.ca
The Canadian
Standards Association
www.csa.ca

equipment you plan to power with the generator. The data plates on these appliances usually specify the number of volts and amps they require. Multiply volts by amps to get the wattage.

Many appliances list both “run wattage” and “surge wattage.” As the term suggests, run wattage is the amount of electricity required to continuously run appliances. Surge wattage is the higher amount of electricity required to start electric engines. Choose a generator that produces more power than you will actually use because of the big draw when these devices are initially turned on. If you get stumped, ask an electrician to determine how many watts your generator should deliver.

While generators can be lifesavers when your utility power is out, improperly operating a generator can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, shock or electrocution and fire. The following tips can help you avoid these hazards.

To avoid carbon monoxide
poisoning

■ Never use the generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, vehicles or similar enclosed areas.

■ Always use the generator outside and not near any doors, windows and vents.

■ If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while
using a generator, get to fresh air quickly.

■ Install battery-operated or plug-in (with battery backup) carbon monoxide alarms in your home.

■ Frequently test carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries when needed.

■ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

To avoid electrical hazards

■ Never plug the generator into a wall outlet. This practice, known as backfeeding, can create an electrocution risk to utility work-ers and others served by the same utility transformer.

■ Keep the generator dry and operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure.

■ Dry your hands before touching the generator.

■ Plug appliances directly into the generator or use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cord. Make sure that the entire extension cord is free of cuts and tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially the grounding pin.

To avoid fire hazards

■ Before refuelling the generator, turn it off and let it cool. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.

■ Store fuel outside in properly labelled, non-glass containers and away from any fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural-gas water heater in a garage. Local laws may restrict the amount of fuel you can store and/or where you store it. C

The Costco Connection You’ll find 3,500-watt and 6,500-watt portable generators, as well as a carbon monoxide detector, at your local warehouse and a wide selection of generators at www.costco.ca.

for your
home
D evelop
a floor plan
Some things to
consider before you
buy new flooring

INSTAL LING NEW FLOORING is o ne of the most dynamic ways to transform the look and feel of a home, but it’s also one of the more costly home-decor decisions consumers make. According to the World Floor Covering Association ( www.wfca.org), the type of flooring you choose will determine not only the mood of a room, but how practical it will be.

Because most types of flooring are relatively permanent, the flooring you install should be tailored to the people who use it. Here are some pros and cons of five popular flooring types.

Hardwood

Pros: Will usually last a lifetime. Easy to clean. Warm colours. Coordinates well with almost any decor. Usually easy to repair when necessary.

Cons: May scratch or dent. Easily damaged by moisture (not recommended for bathrooms); colour can fade over time. May require professional installation.

Laminate

Pros: Realistically simulates wood and other natural materials. Extremely durable. Easy to clean. Can usually be installed throughout a home. Easier for homeowners to install, depending on general home-improvement skill level. One of the more affordable flooring options.

Cons: Quality varies greatly, depending on manufacturer. Tends to be noisy. Though more durable than wood, may scratch or dent.

Ceramic tile

Pros: Wide variety of styles, patterns, colours, textures and sizes. Can achieve different looks and feels through installation techniques. Moisture resistant. Easy to clean. Extremely durable.

Cons: Grout lines can stain if not properly installed. Costly to change design or colour scheme. May require professional installation. Should be resealed regularly. Cost varies greatly, depending on the type of tile.