If you have a power generator, be sure to keep the following instructions in mind:

• If you purchase a generator, have a qualified electrician properly size and install it. If you install the generator yourself, have a local electrical inspector check the installation for compliance with safety codes. A permit may be required for installation.
• If you're renting a generator for temporary use, choose equipment that is properly sized for your needs and that comes with complete operating instructions. Consult with a professional to determine the proper generator for your home’s needs.
• Always operate your generator according to the directions in the owner's manual. If you no longer have the manual, you may be able to find it online by searching for the make and model number.
• Periodically start the generator to ensure it is still working properly. Regularly inspect cords, insulation and connectors.
• Never use a generator or other fuel-powered machines indoors, including in outbuildings like sheds or garages. Generators can produce 100 times more carbon monoxide (CO) than a car. If a generator is used indoors, even with doors and windows open, hazardous CO fumes are odorless and can lead to CO poisoning.
• Keep the generator at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. If you start to feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY - DO NOT DELAY. If unexplained flu-like symptoms continue after seeking fresh air, get immediate medical attention.
• Install CO alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
• Do not attempt to shut off your generator in the event of a suspected gas leak. Exit immediately and then call 911 and PSE&G. It's important to make first responders aware that you have a power generator before they enter your home or business to investigate a gas leak. Some power generators are automatically triggered to turn on when the electric service is disconnected. In the presence of a gas leak, the generator could provide a source of ignition and cause a fire or explosion. As an extra precaution, place a label indicating that you have a generator near where the electric line enters your home.
• Be aware that “backfeed” occurs when an improperly connected generator begins feeding electricity back into the power lines. This condition can cause a fire or explosion at your home, a neighbor's or at any location on the electrical line. You are responsible for making sure your generator’s electricity doesn’t feed back into PSEG's power lines. Before operating a generator, make sure to shut off the main breaker in the electric panel so that your system is not overwhelmed when power is restored.
• To avoid backfeed, do not plug generator into a wall outlet to power an entire house. In most cases, generators should be connected directly to an appliance or piece of equipment by a properly rated, outdoor extension cord.
  
  
• Be sure your generator is Underwriters Laboratory (UL)-approved.
• Store generator fuel, like gasoline, only in approved containers.

While gas appliances often function well with proper care and maintenance, it's important to be aware of hazards that can arise from improper use of, or defects in, gas connectors. Gas connectors are corrugated (like a slinky) or grooved tubes specifically designed to connect a gas appliance to gas piping.

Keep the following tips in mind for gas appliance and gas connector safety:

• Avoid moving natural gas appliances. Connectors can break easily if moved even slightly, potentially resulting in a leak of natural gas that has a risk of fire or explosion.
• Connectors should always be replaced by a licensed professional whenever an appliance is removed from its location or replaced.
• Hard pipe should be used on stationary appliances (water heaters and furnaces), and flexible connectors should be used on moveable appliances (dryers and ranges). Do not use more than one connector per appliance. Connectors should never be more than 6 ft. long and should never be hidden within floors, walls, ceilings etc.
• Gas appliance connectors should be inspected regularly and replaced as needed by a licensed professional. Connections should be AGA/CSA approved.
• Older, flexible gas connectors made of uncoated brass can weaken or crack over time, and could lead to a dangerous gas leak. If you have an appliance that is more than 20 years old, it may have an uncoated brass connector. Any uncoated brass gas appliance connector should be replaced immediately, by a qualified professional, with a new stainless steel connector.
• Customers can make arrangements to replace or inspect their old or broken flexible gas connectors for a fee by contacting PSE&G WorryFree or their local plumber. Learn more about PSE&G's WorryFree program here.

Troubleshooting for Gas Heaters

If your gas heater doesn't seem to be working properly, check the following items:

• If you have a steam or hot water system, check the water in the sight glass or the pressure on the water pressure gauge. If it is below the manufacturer’s recommended water level, turn on the water supply valve to bring the water level up to the recommended level or to the 12 PSI mark on the water pressure gauge. Then, turn off the valve on the steam system.
• If the pilot light, the small flame that remains lit, on your heating system is out, relight the unit by following the manufacturer's instructions in your owner's manual. If you no longer have the owner's manual, you may be able to find the instructions online by searching for the make and model of your unit, along with the phrase "pilot light."
• If the pilot light is already on, set the thermostat to “heat” and raise the setting to five degrees above room temperature. The heater should come on within a minute or two. Then, adjust the thermostat to the desired temperature.
• If you need help lighting the pilot light or troubleshooting, call us at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).
• If your heating system is not working properly, call us at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734) to have your heating equipment or other appliances inspected, serviced or repaired. You can also Schedule a Service Appointment online through MyAccount.

Overheating

A boiler or furnace can overheat when a heating unit reaches an exceedingly high temperature and pressure and when the unit will not shut off. This condition, also called a “runaway boiler,” is caused by failure of safety controls and can result in an explosion or fire.

Your system may be overheating if it:

• will not shut off.
• is a cherry red color.
• has paint peeling off.
• is leaking water or steam.
• has temperature or pressure gauges at the highest levels.

If you suspect your system is overheating:

• Evacuate your home immediately and call the fire department, followed by the PSE&G emergency line at 1-800-880-7734 (PSEG). Do not go near the boiler or attempt to shut it off. Upon arrival, PSE&G will shut off the gas supply and allow the heating system to safely cool down on its own.
• NEVER add water to a hot boiler and NEVER attempt to cool down a hot boiler by spraying water on it. Any water coming in contact with the hot boiler will immediately turn to steam, and you could be severely burned.

If Your Heating Equipment Was in a Flood

Boilers that were in a flood are at an increased risk of overheating. Heating controls exposed to floodwater could be damaged and can fail, even if they were tested and appeared to be operable.

If your heating equipment was exposed to floodwater, call PSE&G at 1-800-436-7734 (PSEG) to have your equipment inspected and/or repaired.

Hot water scalds can occur quickly when bath or shower water temperatures are too high.

To avoid burn hazards, be sure to

• Make sure your water heater is set to a safe temperature for home use. Use the industry chart below to provide guidance to avoid scalding.
• Check the water temperature before placing a child in the bathtub.
• Never leave a child alone or with other young children in the bathtub.
  
  

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter. Clean the lint filter before and after each cycle.
• Do not forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up.
• Check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure that it is not damaged, crushed or restricted.
• Make sure that the outdoor vent covering opens when the dryer is operating.
• Ensure the vent on the outside of your home is free of debris, especially after a winter storm.