Powering Through Outages
What Members Should Know About Generators
Power outages can happen for many reasons, including severe weather and unexpected equipment failures. While Missoula Electric Cooperative (MEC) works hard to maintain reliable electric service, many members choose to install generators to keep essential power running during an outage. Whether you already own a generator or are thinking about purchasing one, it’s important to understand safe operation and proper installation to protect your home, your family, and the utility crews working to restore power.
Safety should always come first when operating a generator. Improper use can lead to fire, electrocution, or carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators must never be used inside a home, garage, or any enclosed or partially enclosed space. Always place the unit outdoors in a well‑ventilated area, ideally at least 20 feet from your home, with the exhaust pointed away from doors and windows.
Another major safety concern is backfeeding, which occurs when generator power flows back onto utility lines at high voltage. This can energize lines that should be off during an outage, putting lineworkers and neighbors at risk. To prevent this, a generator should never be plugged into a household outlet or wired directly into an electrical panel without the correct equipment. The safest solution is to use a transfer switch, which isolates your home from MEC’s system while your generator is running. Transfer switches also make it easier to switch back to utility power once service is restored. Members should hire a qualified electrician to install their transfer switch to ensure a safe setup that meets local electrical codes.
MEC also allows meter socket mounted transfer switches, which are installed directly behind the electric meter. These products allow a safe and easy connection between a portable generator and your home’s wiring. Because they require the meter to be pulled during installation, members must contact MEC ahead of time to schedule a serviceman. Once installation is complete, MEC will reinstall the meter and you’re set.
When selecting a generator, consider whether a standby or portable model best suits your needs. Standby generators are permanently installed, run on natural gas or propane, and start automatically during outages. They can be sized to power essential circuits—or in some cases, the entire home. Portable generators are more affordable but require manual setup and refueling. They are best for powering a few key appliances and must be sized carefully to avoid overloading.
No matter which option you choose, planning ahead is key. Consult a licensed electrician or generator professional to determine the right size and setup. And before installing any generator or transfer switch, contact MEC with questions or scheduling needs. Proper preparation will help ensure you stay safe, comfortable, and ready when the next outage occurs.
