Whether you are installing a backup generator under deck, or not, here are some tips that you will need to know before you get started. These tips will help you install your generator in a way that will ensure the safety of you and your family.
Propane vs natural gas
Whether you are considering installing a propane or natural gas generator, there are several factors to consider. Both fuels have their own advantages and disadvantages, and you should weigh them carefully before making a decision.
Propane is a liquid fuel that can be stored forever. It has more energy density than natural gas, which means you can get more power out of the same size generator. It is also cleaner burning, leaving little to no contaminants in the air.
Natural gas is a gas that is made up of mostly methane. It is transported to generators via an underground pipeline. These lines are often found in larger cities, but can be problematic in rural areas. If your neighborhood does not have underground pipelines, you may need to upgrade your gas meter to accommodate the extra pressure.
Whether or not to place a generator under a deck
Whether or not to place a generator on a deck is a decision you will want to make carefully. It may seem like a logical step when considering how to maximize your home’s power production but it can be a dangerous move. If you decide to install a generator on your deck, be sure to keep it out of the way of your main air intakes and windows. It can also be dangerous to leave the machine running in high winds.
The National Fire Protection Association’s guidelines for generator placement around the home include the standard NFPA code for a minimum of five feet from any structure and two feet from any flammable materials. In addition, a generator should be enclosed in a fire-resistant enclosure. It should also have a four-foot clearance in the back.
Proper ventilation of the generator
Putting a backup generator on a deck is a good idea, but you need to make sure that it is properly ventilated. The fumes from burnt fuel are dangerous and can kill a person in a matter of minutes.
You should also consider that portable generators should not be run in enclosed spaces. They produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas. They should also be kept away from open doors and windows. If you have a generator, you should stock up on extra gasoline.
You should also install a battery operated carbon monoxide detector indoors. This is especially important if your generator is located in a basement or an enclosed space.
You should also be sure that your generator is properly grounded. Depending on the model, you might need to use a transfer switch to connect the generator to your building’s electrical system.
Recovering 68 percent of the cost of a standby generator
Whether you are looking for a whole home solution for your backup power or simply want to keep your home powered, a generator can be an effective way to produce electricity. The costs for such systems vary widely, from $1500 to $3000 for a simple critical systems generator to $45,000 or more for a luxury home. A backup system consists of battery banks, solar power, and backup generators, all of which can be combined to create a reliable source of energy.
Some models of backup generators come with a built-in sensor that prevents carbon monoxide poisoning, and others are quieter than their standby counterparts. Portable units are also available, but they require large amounts of gasoline and are noisier. They must be wheeled out of storage and connected to a transfer switch, and they typically have lower output than their standby counterparts.