When installing a standby generator, you must hire a professional. They will ensure it’s safely positioned and connected to your fuel source and home.
They will also install a transfer switch, disconnecting the main utility lines and connecting them to the generator’s power. This is an essential safety feature that prevents overloading the generator.
Choosing the best site for your new powerhouse is important to ensure it operates efficiently and safely. A site plan considers space requirements, fueling logistics, and maintenance schedules. While this may seem unglamorous, it will ensure that your generator is properly installed and operating at its optimum level.
A generator is an essential piece of equipment in any industrial setting where the function and safety of your operations rely on a reliable power source. Fortunately, there are several generators to choose from, including diesel and gas powered units. While the aforementioned is the most popular choice among business owners, there are also a number of lighter weight generators available in the marketplace that can help you get your job done when it matters most.
A powerhouse is a beast of a machine, and finding the right one for your company can be a daunting task, but with the proper planning and a little assistance from an expert, you can rest assured that you have one of the most powerful machines in your office or factory. It’s a good idea to start your search with our generator selection guide to learn more about the best options for your needs.
If you plan to install a generator, it is important that you obtain a permit. Depending on the municipality in which you live, this process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so it is best to get everything in order as early as possible.
The first step is to determine where you would like the generator to be installed. Ideally, it should be near the electric and gas meter so that you can connect the pipes with ease and have consistent fuel supply.
When selecting a location, make sure that it is not a hazard to the people living on your property. You don’t want to risk the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning or fires. Always keep the generator at least five feet away from any doors, windows, soffit vents and any other areas where combustion could occur.
It is also a good idea to choose a site that doesn’t have any underground utility lines, as this can cause damage to the generator. If you’re worried that you may not have enough space for the generator to be installed, it is best to contact your local utility provider before starting any excavation.
Once you’ve selected a spot, it is time to apply for the required permits. This process can be confusing, so it is best to hire a professional electrician to assist you in this area.
You will need to submit a detailed set of blueprints and technical data for the proposed generator, including sound testing. You will need separate plumbing, propane and electrical permits.
During the application process, it is also a good idea to submit a copy of your home owner association (HOA) approval. This is especially true if you are planning to install the generator in the front yard of your property.
A final inspection will be required to ensure that all requirements have been met. Having the generator properly installed and in good working condition will give you peace of mind that you can stay comfortable during power outages.
Generators need to sit on a level concrete or gravel pad. These pads keep the generators from tumbling on the ground and damaging equipment and property. They also help to absorb vibrations that are caused by the generator running.
The type of pad that you choose depends on the kind of generator you are installing and your local codes. For example, if you live in a flood-prone area, a soil-based pad may be more suitable.
Generally, the installer removes a rectangular patch of grass and soil to create a base for the generator. The base is then compacted with sand and gravel. Then a pre-cast concrete pad is placed over the prepared surface.
These pad designs offer better stability than a soil-based pad, and they are easier to adjust for the weight of the generator. However, they are more expensive than other alternative pads and take more time to construct.
There are many different concrete pad designs available. Some are made on site while others are manufactured offsite.
In most cases, the generator manufacturer or a company doing the installation manufactures the base offsite and then ships it to the site of the installation. Once it has been poured and cured, the concrete pad is placed on top of the prepared site and the generator placed on it.
This is often the preferred method for installation. Depending on your local codes, you may need to remove some soil and build a base with compacted sand and gravel. Wooden sides are then staked in place to create a frame or mold that holds the concrete.
Once the generator is positioned on the concrete pad, it will need to be secured. This may require some lifting equipment, such as a gantry crane or a skid.
The generator’s installation will also need to be coordinated with other equipment. For example, the fuel supply system will need to be properly connected and up to code. Likewise, the air ducting and cooling ductwork will need to be installed properly so that the generator can work efficiently. Having the entire installation planned out beforehand will help to ensure that all of the components are compatible with each other.
Having a generator is a great investment that can increase your home’s safety and convenience. But installing it isn’t a simple process, and there are many things to consider.
First, you’ll need to find a suitable location for your generator. This should be near the gas and electric meter. The closer it is, the less likely the fuel line will be damaged during installation, and it will cut down on costs in the long run.
Next, you’ll need to determine the size of your generator and how much power you need to keep your house running when there’s a power outage. For instance, if you have a lot of appliances that need to be powered, you’ll want a larger unit.
Another important factor is how you want to connect your generator to your house. The most common method is with a transfer switch, but you can also wire your generator to the main electrical panel.
Finally, you’ll need to decide where your fuel source will be located, which is typically a tank or an existing delivery pipeline. If you’re using propane or natural gas, ask your utility company if they can deliver the pressure and volume needed by your generator.
Once you’ve determined your final location, it’s time to have your generator installed. Your contractor will bring a crew to pour concrete and move your generator into place, then an electrician will connect it and install a transfer switch. A certified gas professional will then install the fuel line to the generator.
When the generator is connected to the main electrical panel, it will automatically kick on when the grid goes down, providing your home with power. This can save you from spending money on hotel rooms or temporary lodging when the power goes out, and prevent pipes from freezing during extremely cold weather.
If you’re planning to use your generator for heating or air conditioning, you’ll need a more powerful unit. Larger models can be expensive, but they will provide more power than smaller models for a longer period of time.
After the generator is installed, your contractor will need to make sure it meets local codes and is properly tested. This should include a fire and structural test to ensure the generator is safe and doesn’t pose a threat to the safety of your family.
