When a storm knocks out power or a blackout lasts for days, many homeowners turn to portable generators to keep essential appliances running. But in the search for convenience or a cheaper setup, some people attempt a dangerous shortcut known as a suicide cord or suicide cable.
The short answer: A suicide cord is a homemade electrical cable with two male (pronged) plugs on each end, used to backfeed power into a home’s electrical system through a wall outlet. It is extremely dangerous, illegal in most jurisdictions, and poses serious risks of electrocution, fire, and death.
In this article, we’ll explain what suicide cords are, why they’re so hazardous, what the legal and safety implications are, and how to safely connect a generator to your home’s electrical panel using proper equipment like transfer switches or interlock kits.
What Is a Suicide Cord or Suicide Cable?
A suicide cord (also known as a “male-to-male extension cord”) is a DIY cable made with two male plug ends. One end is plugged into a generator, and the other is dangerously plugged into a wall outlet in an attempt to “backfeed” electricity into the home’s wiring.
This setup is often intended to restore power to some or all of a home’s circuits during a blackout—without installing a transfer switch. However, this method bypasses safety mechanisms and introduces life-threatening hazards.
Why Is It Called a “Suicide” Cord?
The name reflects the very real risk of electrocution. Unlike standard cords with one female (receptacle) and one male (plug) end, a suicide cord exposes live prongs when plugged in—meaning anyone who touches the unplugged end can be instantly shocked or killed.
Why Suicide Cords Are Dangerous and Should Never Be Used
There are several reasons why suicide cords are not just unsafe—but outright illegal in most states and municipalities:
1. ⚡ Electrocution Risk
With both ends of the cord having male plugs, one end becomes energized and deadly as soon as the other is plugged in. Anyone touching the live prongs risks severe shock or death—especially children, pets, or unsuspecting individuals.
2. 🔥 Fire Hazard
Backfeeding power through an outlet can overload household wiring not rated for reverse power flow, potentially causing overheating and house fires.
3. 🚑 Risk to Utility Workers (Backfeeding the Grid)
When improperly connected, a generator can send electricity back through the main electrical panel to the utility lines. This “backfeed” endangers utility line workers attempting to restore service. It’s one of the top reasons utilities urge homeowners to use transfer switches only.
4. 🚫 Code Violations and Liability
Using a suicide cord violates the National Electrical Code (NEC), local building codes, and voids home insurance in the event of fire or injury. In many jurisdictions, using or even owning such a device can result in fines or criminal liability.
5. 💥 Damage to Generator and Appliances
Improper wiring and load balancing can cause power surges or feedback loops, damaging the generator and any connected appliances or electronics.
What Is Backfeeding and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Backfeeding occurs when electrical power flows in the opposite direction of its normal path. In a suicide cord setup, power from the generator flows into a home’s outlet and tries to energize the entire circuit—often including the main breaker and even the utility pole transformer.
Consequences of Backfeeding:
- ⚡ Electrocutes workers restoring power to the grid
- 🔥 Overloads wiring in the home, leading to fire hazards
- 🧯 Circumvents safety systems and creates unpredictable current paths
- 🚓 Legal action for creating a public safety risk
For these reasons, backfeeding is strongly condemned by OSHA, NFPA, NEC, FEMA, and all utility companies.
What to Use Instead: Safe Generator Connection Options
Instead of dangerous DIY methods like suicide cords, use approved and code-compliant equipment to connect a generator to your home.
1. 🔀 Manual Transfer Switch
- Safely isolates generator power from the utility grid
- Allows you to energize specific home circuits
- Installed by a licensed electrician
- Available in 30A or 50A configurations
2. 🔒 Interlock Kit (for Main Panel)
- Locks out main breaker when generator breaker is engaged
- Lower cost alternative to transfer switch
- Still requires generator inlet and electrician installation
3. ⚡ Dedicated Generator Inlet Box
- Outdoor plug connects generator to home
- Works with transfer switch or interlock
- Keeps cords outside and safe from foot traffic
4. 🔌 Direct Device Plug-In (Portable Use)
- Use heavy-duty extension cords to power individual appliances
- Never plug generator into an outlet
- Use only cords rated for generator wattage
💡 Pro Tip: If you want whole-house backup power, consider a standby generator system professionally installed and connected to your panel with an automatic transfer switch (ATS).
How to Identify a Suicide Cord (And Why You Should Never Make One)
Suicide cords can sometimes appear on DIY forums, social media videos, or homemade generator “hacks.” They are often described as a “simple way to backfeed your house.” If you see a cable with two male plug ends, it’s a suicide cord.
NEVER build, use, buy, or attempt to use a suicide cable under any circumstances. It’s not clever. It’s not safe. It’s a deadly shortcut with real consequences.
What To Do If You Find One:
- Cut off the plug ends and dispose of the cable
- Report its sale or use to local authorities or code enforcement
- Educate others on the risk of backfeeding and generator safety
FAQs: Suicide Cords and Generator Safety
Q: Why do people use suicide cords?
Some users think they are a quick way to power circuits without installing a transfer switch. However, it is unsafe, illegal, and strongly discouraged by every electrical safety authority.
Q: Can I legally backfeed my house with a generator?
Not with a suicide cord. The only safe and legal way is through a properly installed transfer switch or interlock system that isolates your generator from the grid.
Q: Is there a safe version of a suicide cable?
No. There is no safe or legal form of a cable with two male plugs. All generator connections should use approved cords, receptacles, and safety mechanisms.
Q: What happens if I backfeed my home and power returns?
You could destroy your generator, start an electrical fire, or cause deadly voltage spikes that damage appliances or the grid. This can also lead to liability if someone is injured.
Q: Will my insurance cover fire or damage from a suicide cord?
Almost certainly not. Insurance policies exclude damage caused by illegal modifications or code violations.
Conclusion: Suicide Cords Are Never Safe—Use Proper Equipment Instead
When it comes to using a generator to power your home during an emergency, shortcuts can be deadly. Suicide cords may seem like a clever fix—but they introduce unacceptable risk, violate electrical codes, and create hazards for everyone in your home and community.
The safest way to connect a generator to your home is with a properly installed transfer switch or interlock kit. If you’re not sure what’s right for your home, consult a licensed electrician or generator installer. Your safety—and the safety of utility workers and first responders—depends on it.
Want to Learn More About Safe Generator Use?
Read next: Do I Need a Generator Transfer Switch? — your complete guide to safely powering your home during outages.