How To Use an Emergency Generator Severe Weather

Today, we’re going to talk a little bit about generators—specifically, emergency standby generators—and what you should do in the event of a storm. Behind me, you can see a generator panel. Stick around and we’ll dive into it.

Understanding the Generator Setup

A typical generator system includes some form of transfer switch or generator panel where all the essential loads are wired into. That’s exactly what we have here behind me—this panel manages only the most critical circuits in the house.

This generator panel is connected to an outdoor receptacle where the generator is plugged in. That connection is an entirely different topic we’ve covered in other videos, but today, we’re focusing on storm readiness and safe operation.

What To Do When the Power Goes Out

In the event of a storm or power outage, here’s what you need to do:

Flip the transfer switch to the generator position (it’s normally in utility mode).
Go outside and start your generator. Let it warm up for a couple of minutes.
Shut all the breakers off in your generator panel before connecting the generator.
Plug in your generator to the outdoor inlet.
Turn on each breaker one at a time. This prevents your generator from being overwhelmed by a sudden heavy load.

We always load test and balance these panels when we install them for customers, but it’s good practice to bring loads online gradually.

Simulating a Power Outage Step-by-Step

Let’s walk through the process like it’s happening in real-time.

Pull your generator out of storage.
- Pro tip: Start your generator at least once a month to keep it in good working order. Do any needed maintenance and make sure it’s full of fuel—before the storm hits.
We’re using a 30-amp cord with male and female ends. One end connects to your generator, and the other to the inlet box on the side of your house.
The generator inlet box is 30 amps and in our case is made by Generac. It connects directly to the generator panel inside the home.

Starting and Connecting the Generator

Start your generator.
- Every model is a bit different—some have electric start, some have choke levers. Whatever yours requires, start it and let it warm up.
- Ensure the breaker on the generator itself is OFF during startup.
- Use the L14-30R receptacle to plug in the cord.
Once the generator is running smoothly, plug the cord into the generator and the house inlet. These are twist-lock plugs, so they’ll click and lock in place with a slight turn.
Once everything is plugged in and warmed up, turn on the generator’s breaker.
Inside, shut off all the breakers in your generator panel, then:
- Flip the transfer switch from utility to generator.
- Begin turning on each breaker one at a time to power up your circuits safely.

Now, your generator is providing power to your essential loads. You’ll see your pump, furnace, or other systems start running as usual.

When Utility Power Comes Back

When the power is restored (you’ll often know because lights or clocks will come back on), here’s what to do:

Turn off the generator panel’s breakers.
Flip the transfer switch back to utility.
Turn the utility breakers back on.
Go outside and shut down the generator.
Let the generator cool down before storing it.
Roll up your cord and put everything away.

Final Tips

Having a generator system installed with a proper transfer switch done by a licensed electrician is the safest and most reliable option. There are a couple of ways this can be done:

A generator panel like we’ve shown.
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) that can even be installed behind your meter.

Important: We do not recommend back-feeding your house through a dryer outlet or other unsafe methods. That’s extremely dangerous and illegal in many areas.

Thanks for watching! We hope this guide helps you understand how to use your generator during a power outage. Don’t forget to like and subscribe, and we’ll see you in the next one.