Generators and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

 

Generators are lifesavers during power outages, keeping your lights on, your fridge running, and your home comfortable. Whether you’re using a portable Generac generator for a camping trip or a home standby model for whole-house power, these machines are invaluable. But there’s a hidden danger that comes with generator use: carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. This silent, odorless gas can turn a helpful tool into a deadly hazard if you’re not careful. In this blog, we’ll explore what CO poisoning is, why generators pose a risk, and—most importantly—how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

 

 

What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning fuels like gasoline, propane, natural gas, or diesel—all common power sources for generators. When inhaled, CO binds to hemoglobin in your blood, preventing oxygen from reaching your organs and tissues. The result? Symptoms that range from headaches and dizziness to confusion, unconsciousness, and, in severe cases, death.

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 400 people die from unintentional CO poisoning in the U.S. each year, and thousands more end up in emergency rooms. Generators are a leading cause of these incidents, especially during storms or outages when they’re used most.

 

Why Generators Are a CO Risk

Generators produce carbon monoxide as a byproduct of their internal combustion engines. Unlike your car, which vents exhaust outdoors, generators are often placed in or near homes, where CO can build up quickly. Portable generators are especially risky because they’re mobile—people might set them up in garages, basements, or too close to windows. Even home standby generators, though permanently installed outdoors, can pose a danger if not properly positioned or vented.

 

The danger lies in how quietly CO accumulates. You can’t see, smell, or taste it, so without proper precautions, you might not realize there’s a problem until it’s too late.

 

Real-Life Risks: A Cautionary Tale

Imagine this: a family in a storm-ravaged area loses power. They fire up their portable generator in the garage to keep the heat on, cracking the door for “ventilation.” Within hours, they’re feeling dizzy and nauseous. By the time they recognize the symptoms, one family member is unconscious. This isn’t just a hypothetical—it’s a scenario that plays out too often. In 2021 alone, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported dozens of CO deaths linked to generator misuse after hurricanes and winter storms.

 

How to Prevent CO Poisoning with Generators

The good news? CO poisoning is entirely preventable with the right knowledge and habits. Here’s how to stay safe when using a generator:

 

  1. Keep It Outdoors, Far from Home
    • For portable generators, place them at least 20 feet away from your house, doors, windows, and vents. Point the exhaust away from living spaces.
    • Home standby generators are installed outside by professionals, but ensure the exhaust isn’t near windows or crawlspaces—check with your installer.
  2. Never Run a Generator Indoors

    • This includes garages, basements, sheds, or porches. Even with doors or windows open, CO can build up to lethal levels in minutes.

  3. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
    • Equip your home with battery-powered or battery-backup CO alarms on every level, especially near sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries as needed.
  4. Know the Symptoms
    • Watch for headaches, fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, or confusion. If multiple people feel sick at once, suspect CO and get fresh air immediately.
  5. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
    • Generac generators come with safety instructions—read them. For portable models, use the recommended fuel and avoid overloading. For standby units, schedule regular maintenance to ensure proper function.
  6. Shut Down Safely
    • Turn off the generator and let it cool before refueling. Spilled fuel or hot engines can ignite, adding another layer of risk.

 

Generac’s Commitment to Safety

Generac takes CO risks seriously. Many of their portable generators now feature CO Sense™ technology, which detects carbon monoxide buildup and automatically shuts off the unit if levels get too high. It’s a game-changer for portable generator safety, but it’s not a substitute for proper placement and vigilance. Home standby generators, meanwhile, are designed to vent exhaust safely when installed correctly by a certified technician.

 

What to Do If You Suspect CO Poisoning

If you or anyone else shows signs of CO exposure:

  • Get outside to fresh air immediately.
  • Call 911 or your local emergency number.
  • Don’t re-enter the space until it’s deemed safe by professionals.

 

Final Thoughts: Power Up Safely

Generators are powerful tools, but they demand respect. Whether you’re relying on a portable Generac for a weekend getaway or a standby model to keep your home running during a blackout, prioritizing CO safety is non-negotiable. By keeping your generator outside, using detectors, and staying alert, you can enjoy the benefits of backup power without putting your life at risk. Stay prepared, stay informed, and stay safe—because the real power is in protecting what matters most.