---
title: "What Is Portable generator? Electrical Glossary"
description: "A portable generator is a movable, engine-driven unit that makes temporary power for lights, tools and appliances, with carbon monoxide and backfeed risks."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-generator
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Power and utility

# Portable generator

A portable generator is a movable, engine-driven unit that makes temporary power for lights, tools and appliances, with carbon monoxide and backfeed risks.

CPSC says portable generators are useful when temporary or remote electric power is needed, but they also can be hazardous. Most reported incidents involve carbon monoxide poisoning from generators used indoors or in partially enclosed spaces. Run one only outdoors, far from windows, doors and vents.

Never plug a generator into a wall outlet to power the house. That is [backfeed](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/backfeed), and it can electrocute utility workers. A [transfer switch](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/transfer-switch) installed by a licensed electrician is the safe way to connect. Also keep a working [carbon monoxide detector](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/carbon-monoxide-detector). See [emergency electrical help](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/guides/emergency-electrical-help).

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Backfeed](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/backfeed)
-   [Transfer switch](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/transfer-switch)
-   [Carbon monoxide detector](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/carbon-monoxide-detector)
-   [Standby generator](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/standby-generator)

## Sources

1.  [CPSC Safety Alert: Portable Generator Hazards](https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5123_SafetyAlert_PortableGenerators_102021.pdf)
2.  [CDC: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning](https://www.cdc.gov/carbon-monoxide/about/index.html)

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Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

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