A standby generator can be a useful addition to your home. There are a few factors to keep in mind when placing one in your home. Some of these include making sure you can adequately overload the unit and minimizing the amount of noise it makes.
Placement of a standby generator
A standby generator is a necessary device to keep your home powered in the event of a power outage. However, there are a few things you must remember when placing a standby generator, such as the distance between the home and the generator. This can help you to stay safe and avoid a potentially expensive inconvenience.
The distance between the generator and the home is important because a fuel-operated generator can create toxic carbon monoxide fumes. If you don’t want your family exposed to these harmful gases, you’ll need to locate a standby generator that is far enough from your house to meet local regulations.
It is also important to ensure that your standby generator is installed on solid ground. Typically, standby generators can weigh several hundred pounds, and a solid foundation will help support the weight.
In addition, a standby generator will need at least five feet of space around it. This includes at least five feet away from doors and windows, as well as three feet on each side of the generator.
Overloading a generator
When it comes to having a standby generator in your home, you’ll need to take some careful considerations to ensure the device is safe to operate. Having a generator that is not properly installed can be a hazard, and can result in serious damage to your property.
First, you’ll want to consider the regulations of your local zoning district. This will include any noise ordinances. If you don’t adhere to them, you could face fines of up to $3000 a day.
Secondly, you’ll need to understand the capabilities of your standby generator. You don’t want to overload it, as it will be unstable and might damage expensive devices.
The first sign that you’re overdoing it with your standby generator is that you’re overheating it. Luckily, there are ways to avoid this hazard. For instance, you can keep your fuel tank away from your house, and store extra gas in an ANSI approved container. Also, a stabilizer will extend the life of your gas.
Minimizing noise
Many communities have noise regulations that apply to the installation of standby generators. To comply with these regulations, you will have to reduce the operating noise levels.
Fortunately, you can reduce the amount of noise produced by a standby generator by using soundproofing materials. Soundproofing can be accomplished by installing acoustic insulation and other barriers.
There are many types of acoustic insulation you can use. You can buy soundproofing materials at home improvement stores. Acoustic foam is one material you should consider for use around the edge of your generator. These materials can absorb sound, dissipate it and drown out unwanted noise.
The absorption of sound can also be achieved by lining the outer walls of your generator’s enclosure. This will help reduce the volume of noise generated from cooling air. If you do not want to use foam, a simple fabric will do. Flame retardant cloth can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Acoustic panels are another type of soundproofing that can be used. These panels can reflect and absorb sound, and are designed to be flame resistant.
Finding local building regulations
Whether you want to install a standby generator in your home or business, you’ll need to find out local building regulations. These codes determine the distance your home must be from your generator, as well as other factors. You may also need to obtain permission from your municipality, which can take days or weeks.
Generally, generators should be placed at least five feet away from any door or opening. This will reduce the amount of harmful gas emissions. In addition, the distance will help to ensure your home isn’t subject to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Ideally, the location of your standby generator should be closer to your utility entrance. However, this is not always possible. If your house overhangs a utility meter, you will need to provide extra piping to reach the meter.
To avoid conflict with local building codes, it’s important to hire a qualified technician for installation. Licensed electrical contractors are knowledgeable about local code requirements and will ensure your generator is installed according to the rules.