Standby generation provides electricity in the event of a power outage and thereby enhances service reliability on critical loads. Jackson Electric Cooperative offers for sale a full line of generation and switchgear products. Standby generation can be sized for any application — residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural. Our staff will provide technical assistance to help you identify critical loads and motor starting amperages, in order to determine the current equipment needed for your application.

In the case of some applications, like large commercial and industrial loads, a standby generator may allow you to enter a special agreement with the cooperative. If the generator can be called upon to produce electricity during times of peak demand on the utility grid, there is a possibility that we can lower your energy costs. Since utility system peak demand determines a large portion of the cost of electricity, a mutually beneficial arrangement may qualify your facility for a lower electrical rate.

Remember Safety

Electric generators can be a convenient source of power around your home, farm or business. But they must be used properly.

Improper use of generators, even small, portable models, can threaten your safety and everyone around you. The installation of standby generation requires certain modifications to the wiring on your premises. These changes are necessary to protect from the unsafe back feed of electricity onto the utility system. Without the proper wiring and disconnecting switches, this creates an extremely hazardous threat for electrocution or critical injury to you and others. In fact, an improper hook-up may energize an electric line without the knowledge of line crews working on our electrical system. Don't take chances with your safety, and don't put others in danger!

Portable generators are designed to be used with cord-connected equipment. Small appliances, lights and pumps can be plugged directly into outlets on these portable generators. They are not designed to be connected to your house or any building wiring, and they should not be used this way. Improper installations can also seriously damage the generator itself, as well as equipment and appliances used with it.

Use only UL-listed three-wire extension cords with generators. Be sure the extension cord is heavy enough to handle the electrical load. Plug the appliance into the extension cord first; then plug the extension cord into the generator's outlet. Operate your portable generator only when your hands are dry and you are standing in a dry place. Do not use a portable generator in a flooded basement or inside buildings.

Generators driven by a tractor power take-off (PTO) and other large "permanent" generators are normally connected directly to building wiring. These generators should be installed by an experienced electrical contractor, and must contain a transfer switch to prevent back feed. This transfer switch will "break" the electrical connection with Jackson Electric Cooperative before it can "make" the connection between your generator and wiring.

Don't Overload

Before purchasing a standby generator, you must survey your electrical appliances and equipment to determine which uses are most critical. Do not overload the generator's wattage and/or amperage limits. Keep in mind that a motor will require more power as it starts. Size your generator to handle not only the total running wattage of your equipment, but also the total starting wattage. Starting wattage information may be available on the equipment nameplate. If not, for most motorized equipment (such as furnace fans), multiply the running wattage X 2, or X 7 for pumps (such as well pumps, air compressors and air conditioners).

Sensitive electronic equipment, emergency medical devices and computers may require special backup or power conditioning equipment. Check the owners' manual or with the manufacturer for recommendation.