About Taddeo Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Taddeo Electric has served homes and businesses from Spring Hill to Hudson since 2010. We focus on safety, quality, and professionalism with every project.

Location

• 18739 Sakera Rd, Hudson, FL 34667, United States
• West Central Florida
• (352) 556-5276

• Mon – Fri: 8 AM – 4 PM

• West Central Florida

• (352) 556-5276

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When hurricane season hits, power outages are almost inevitable. Between fallen trees, high winds, and flood damage, electrical grids can be knocked out for hours—or even days. That’s why so many homeowners rely on generators to keep essentials running when the lights go out. But using a generator during a hurricane power outage isn’t as simple as plugging it in and flipping a switch.

At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we’ve seen it all—misplaced generators causing carbon monoxide poisoning, overloaded circuits frying expensive electronics, and unsafe wiring setups leading to fire hazards. So today, we’re sharing expert advice on how to safely use a generator during a hurricane, so you can stay powered up and protected.

Why Generator Safety Matters More During Hurricanes

Generators are lifesavers in emergencies—but only when used correctly. According to the CDC, improper use of generators leads to dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries each year, especially from carbon monoxide poisoning, electrical accidents, and fire hazards.

With added risks from rain, wind, and flooding during a hurricane, it’s even more critical to take the right precautions.

1. Choose the Right Generator for Your Needs

Before we talk about safety tips, make sure you’re using a generator that matches your needs. The two main types are:

• Portable Generators: Ideal for powering a few essentials like a refrigerator, lights, or small appliances. These run on gasoline or propane and must be manually started.
• Standby (Whole-House) Generators: Permanently installed and automatically turn on when the power goes out. These are connected to your home’s electrical system and run on natural gas or propane.

Tip: Calculate your wattage needs in advance. Overloading your generator can damage equipment or cause dangerous overheating.

2. Never Use a Generator Indoors

This one’s a lifesaver—literally.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that builds up quickly in enclosed spaces. It can become deadly in minutes. Always run your generator outside, at least 20 feet from your home, and away from windows, doors, or vents.

Signs of CO poisoning include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness

To stay safe, install battery-powered CO detectors in your home and test them regularly.

3. Protect the Generator from Rain and Flooding

Running a generator in wet conditions can lead to short circuits, electrocution, or serious damage.

Solutions:

• Use a generator tent or canopy designed to allow ventilation while protecting against rain.
• Place the generator on a dry, elevated surface to avoid floodwater.

Never run a generator in a garage—even with the door open. It’s not enough ventilation, and exhaust gases can still seep into your home.

4. Use Proper Extension Cords

If you’re using a portable generator, you’ll need heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use. Choose cords that:

• Match or exceed the wattage of the devices being powered
• Are in excellent condition with no fraying or damage
• Have three prongs (grounded)

Plug appliances directly into the extension cord—never backfeed your home by plugging a generator into a wall outlet. This can send power back into utility lines, putting linemen and your neighbors at risk.

5. Install a Transfer Switch (For Standby or Larger Portable Generators)

A transfer switch allows your generator to safely connect to your home’s electrical panel. This not only makes operation safer and more convenient but also prevents dangerous backfeeding.

Benefits of a transfer switch:

• Automatically or manually transfers power source
• Protects appliances from surges
• Keeps power flowing to critical circuits

At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we professionally install transfer switches for both residential and commercial clients. It’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make for hurricane readiness.

6. Don’t Overload the Generator

Overloading a generator can cause the unit to overheat or shut down—and it might even damage your appliances.

Before plugging in devices:

• Know the wattage limits of your generator
• Prioritize essentials: fridge, medical devices, a few lights, phone chargers
• Stagger appliance usage if needed

Use the generator’s circuit breakers to help protect it and your devices from overload damage.

7. Practice Fuel Safety

Gasoline and propane are flammable and should be handled with extreme care.

Generator fuel tips:

• Store fuel in approved containers, away from living areas
• Turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling
• Never smoke near the generator or fuel storage

If your generator runs on propane or natural gas, check all connections and hoses for leaks before the storm hits.

8. Regular Maintenance Is Key

Generators need routine upkeep to perform safely and reliably.

Maintenance checklist before hurricane season:

• Change the oil and air filter
• Check spark plugs
• Test the generator under load
• Inspect fuel lines for cracks or leaks
• Ensure battery is charged (for standby units)

If you’re unsure how to service your generator, Taddeo Electrical Contractors offers generator tune-ups and inspections to get you storm-ready.

Common Generator Safety Questions

Q: How long can I run a generator continuously?
A: Most portable generators can safely run for 8–12 hours with breaks for refueling. Check your owner’s manual for exact specs.

Q: Can I plug my generator into an outlet?
A: Absolutely not. This is called “backfeeding” and it’s extremely dangerous. Use extension cords or a transfer switch installed by a professional.

Q: How far should the generator be from the house?
A: At least 20 feet away, and not near any openings like windows or vents.

Q: Do I need a permit to install a standby generator?
A: In many areas, yes. Taddeo Electrical Contractors can handle permits and inspections to keep your setup safe and compliant.

Stay Powered—and Protected—During the Next Storm

When the next hurricane rolls in, don’t be left scrambling in the dark. A generator is one of the most powerful tools for emergency preparedness—but it must be used with caution and proper planning.

At Taddeo Electrical Contractors, we specialize in helping homeowners and businesses prepare for extreme weather with safe, code-compliant generator solutions. From portable generator setup and fuel safety tips to full-service standby generator installations and transfer switch wiring, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to Hurricane-Proof Your Power Plan?

Call Taddeo Electrical Contractors today for a consultation on generator installation, inspection, or repair. We’ll make sure you’re storm-ready, confident, and safe.

• Licensed and insured professionals
• Emergency services available
• Transparent pricing and no shortcuts