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Before You Run Or Test Your Generator: Check the Air Quality First
Running or testing your Emergency Generator on a day with poor air quality could lead to significant fines from the State DEP. Below are steps on how to remain compliant:
Step 1: Check the current Air Quality Index (AQI)
Visit https://www.airnow.gov to determine AQI in your area
Step 2: Check the AQI Forecast Before Generator Testing
After 4 PM on the day prior to your scheduled run / test, review the Air Quality Forecast on airnow.gov
Step 3: Know the Acceptable AQI levels
Statewide Restrictions for New Jersey Operators
If any area in New Jersey reports poor air quality for the following day, generator testing is prohibited throughout the State of NJ.
Example: If Paterson NJ forecast shows Green or Yellow, and a forecast in Cape May NJ indicates Orange, Red, Purple, or Brown, no generators are to be tested anywhere in NJ.
In New Jersey, running a generator on a day with poor air quality can result in substantial fines. A violation of the regulations, specifically N.J.A.C. 7:27-19.2(d), could lead to a penalty ranging from $1,200 to $18,000
Pennsylvania Operators
Philadelphia-Specific Guidelines
For city-specific regulations, refer to: https://www.phila.gov
Delaware Operators
Testing and maintenance of generators is prohibited on days when there is an Air Quality Alert (as specified in section 4.4 of Regulation No. 1144). Alerts are posted on the Air Quality Forecast page and sent out via email (Subscribe by sending a blank email to join-dnrec_ozone_alerts@lists.state.de.us).
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Emergency Use: Emergency generators can operate for an unlimited number of hours during a declared emergency / power outage regardless of the Air Quality Alert status. The steps above apply only to normal generator testing. They do not apply to emergency events.
