This topic was featured in the February 2024 Kansas Country Living Centerspread.

Avoid deadly backfeed and help keep lineworkers safe. 

What is Backfeed?

Backfeed is when power flows in reverse. An alternate power source, usually a portable or permanent generator, feeds energy back through a home's electrical system, meter and into the power lines. 

Permanent generators should be wired into your home by a qualified electrician and have an automatic or manual transfer switch, depending on the generator. A transfer switch  transfers a power source safely from its primary source to the backup source. 

Never plug a portable generator directly into a wall outlet or electrical system. Ensure transfer switches are professionally installed and working properly. Electric lineworkers thank you in advance.