While we consider off-grid solar the best way to build long-term energy independence and resilience, it doesn’t mean we throw other options out the window. Even for our clients, especially those who are completely off-grid, we strongly recommend including a generator in their setup to avoid unpleasant surprises.

However, we’ve seen quite a few cases where people connect generators to their house circuits using unsafe methods — mostly a suicide cord — creating fire hazards and electrocution risks that endanger their and others’ lives and properties.

The good news is that a suicide cord isn’t the only option. Let’s explore the various scenarios where generators are used for backup and how to safely connect them to your electrical circuit.

First things first… What is a “suicide cord” and why it’s dangerous

A “suicide cord” (also called a “backfeed cord” or “male-to-male extension cord”) is a cable with male plugs on both ends. It’s sometimes used to connect a portable generator directly to a home’s electrical system through a standard wall outlet, powering multiple circuits.

Using a suicide cord might seem like an easy workaround at first glance, but it’s extremely dangerous and illegal under electrical codes. When one end of the cord is plugged into a live generator, the exposed prongs on the other end become energized, causing electrocution risks. Anyone who touches those prongs could be fatally shocked.

Moreover, backfeeding through a household outlet sends electricity in the reverse direction into the utility grid. This “backfeed” can energize power lines that utility workers assume are safe to work on, putting their lives in danger. It can also damage your generator, your home’s electrical system, and any electronics you left plugged in, or start a fire.

Bottom line: A suicide cord can electrocute anyone touching it, fry the linemen, and set homes and equipment on fire.

Safe generator backup for (almost) any scenario

Here are the five most common scenarios and how to use generators as backup safely:

1. Off-grid solar with an auto-start generator

Your generator is connected to your solar system and programmed to kick in and charge the batteries automatically when solar production and storage are insufficient.

You’re pretty much good here. However, verify that the inverter/charge controller software is configured properly so that the batteries charge at the right time and at the correct rate to avoid unnecessary wear and deterioration.

2. Off-grid solar without an auto-start generator

You’ll need to manually connect the generator to your solar system to run your appliances and potentially charge the batteries. Again, verify the inverter/charge controller software is configured properly to charge the batteries at the appropriate time and the correct rate.

3. Grid-tied solar/SCE with a whole-house transfer switch

You have one ka-chunky transfer switch that allows you to select whether you get power from a grid-tied source (e.g., solar or plain old power line) or an alternative one (e.g., a generator).

First, plug or wire the generator into your house circuit. When the grid goes down, simply flip the ka-chunky switch to the generator mode and you’re all set. Alternatively, you can install an automatic transfer switch that does the ka-chunky for you.

4. Grid-tied solar/SCE with a “piano style” transfer switch

You have a transfer switch that allows you to choose which circuit uses which power source. After plugging in the generator, you can put critical circuits on the generator for more granular control (and save on fuel cost).

We also recommend this arrangement for some clients who implement our Resiliency packages. The granular control helps reduce the cost of the solar solution without compromising the ability to run critical appliances during outages.

5. Grid-tied solar/SCE with no transfer switch

If you don’t have a transfer switch, you may install a lockout plate in your breaker box. When the power goes out, plug in the generator and switch off the main breaker. Then, move the lockout plate and switch on the generator breaker.

The lockout plate creates an “either/or” situation, so that the circuit must be disconnected from the grid before you can turn on the generator to avoid backfeeding.

5.5 The good old extension cord cure

If you don’t have any of the five setups above and aren’t ready to invest in making the modifications or are in a pinch, you can still avoid the suicide cord route. A safer way is to plug an extension cord into your generator and throw the other end through the window to power your critical appliances.

How to Set Up a Safe Generator Backup for (Almost) Any Scenario