The installation and connection of a standby generator are best made with the help of an installation specialist. Standby generators are most commonly powered by natural gas or propane gas instead of gasoline or diesel-powered mobile generators.
- The site for a standby generator should allow for close access to the main gas supply line
- A minimum of 17.7 inches away from non-combustible walls of the house.
- A distance of five feet (1.5m) must be maintained from window openings, roof overhangs or structures with combustible walls.
Standby gas generators only produce 62 decibels of noise during full operation, equivalent to the noise level during normal conversation.
The pain threshold for humans is between 120 and 140 decibels, but consistent noise levels above 80 decibels can cause hearing loss. Let’s consider all the aspects of finding the best location for a standby generator.
Professional guidance is essential as the installation combines the risk of electrical fire with the potential of gas explosions and carbon monoxide emissions.
Which Code Regulates The Installation Of Standby Generators?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 37 sets out the requirements for engines located outdoors and the weatherproof housings required.
Consult with local Fire Marshall to obtain guidance for connecting the gas supply in accordance with local installation codes.
How Far Should A Standby Generator be From A House?
Engines located outside the home and their weatherproof protective housings must be located at least 5 feet (1.5m) away from wall openings such as windows and doors and at least 5 feet (1.5m) from structures with combustible walls.
A minimum separation will not be required if the wall has a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour or more.
The weatherproof enclosure must also be made of non-combustible material and have a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour or more. The installation enclosure must not be closer than 17.7 inches away from any non-combustible walls.
Finding The Best Generator Installation Site
Install the generator at a site where there is no water discharge from sump pumps, rainwater downspouts, roof runoff, landscape irrigation, or ponding during rain showers.
The location must also allow for the prevailing winds to carry the exhaust emissions away from the house.
Gas Supply
To limit installation costs, install the standby generator within twenty feet of the Gas Meter minimizing the expense of installing the gas supply line to the generator. The size of the gas lines must be sufficient to deliver an adequate gas supply to the generator.
Long gas supply lines could lead to poor starting and reduced overall performance of the standby generator. Ensure that the correct orifice is installed to handle the gas supply type for natural gas or propane.
Air Inlet
The air inlet to the generator housing must also not be obstructed by grass, leaves, or any debris that may build up around it. Ensure that snow and ice falling from the roof will not damage or obstruct the unit. A windbreak can be installed to prevent the wind from blowing debris onto the air intake.
A concrete pad or paved surface can be prepared for the standby generator to be located on. Raise the surface above the level or the surrounding soil to ensure that the generator will be dry at all times.
Are Standby Generators Worth It?
Standby generators are a big investment but do add to the resale value of your property as they have strategic importance and a long operational lifespan. Standby generators are often necessary for areas prone to long power disruptions due to natural storms or power supply instability.
For many households that have converted to solar power generation, a standby generator is essential for the winter months when snowfall and weak solar charging cause insufficient power generation to support the household needs.
The installation of LPG or natural gas storage can add a level of power security.
Gas supply lines can be damaged during storms and earthquakes, eliminating the advantage of having a standby generator. Large gas containers can be tastefully installed at your home, allowing you to buy gas in bulk.
You can buy gas when the prices are favorable and hold sufficient stock to last you for at least one month.
Check with your local authorities and the generator supplier which tax credits apply in your local area. Standby power generators do qualify for some tax relief in most counties but vary from county to county.
Will Power Outages Happen More Frequently?
The sun has started an eleven-year cycle of heightened activity in 2019, ending in 2030. During these cycles of higher solar activity, disruptions in the energy grid and communications systems are to be expected.
Old power plants will break down and require more maintenance due to a lack of infrastructure investment.
A standby generator is one countermeasure that can secure the safety and security of utilities such as power and clean water during natural disasters. Living independently of grid-supplied power is essential to safeguard our families during these ever-increasing events.
Will A Standby Generator Increase My House Value?
A standby generator is an excellent investment in your property and will add significantly to the resale value of your property. Property valuators will add a hundred and fifty percent of the value of the generator to the property value.
The increased severity of storms and natural disasters requires that we be self-reliant in such times. Standby generators are safe and long-lasting and can fully provide your household power needs.
The installation location is important to keep the costs down and reduce the risk of fire or toxic gasses to the inhabitants of the house.
Standby generators must be installed at least five feet away from all doors and windows, and walls made of combustible materials.
The generator should be installed on a concrete or paved pad slightly raised about the surrounding surface to prevent water from pooling around the generator.
Standby generators must be installed and connected to the gas supply by certified technicians to be legal.
References:
- https://homesteady.com/decision-6904334-far-house-should-generator-be-.html
- https://www.championpowerequipment.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/aXis-Models-im-english.pdf
- https://youtu.be/tp31tQfbSI0 – HOME STANDBY GENERATORS: How They Work & How to Choose One
