Before installing a standby generator, it’s important to know where you can legally install it. There are a few things to consider: noise pollution, local regulations, and cost. The placement of the generator is a critical decision that can impact your home or business. Read on to learn more about how to safely place your generator.
Placement of standby generator
There are many factors to consider before determining the best location for a standby generator. First, it is important to consider the distance from the generator to the home. Also, you must be sure that the unit is above the flood line. There are also many regulations governing the placement of standby generators, including codes and manufacturer recommendations. These regulations are in place to protect both homeowners and generators. If you have questions about the placement of your standby generator, call a qualified technician to assist you.
If you are planning on installing a standby generator, you should contact your local building code authority and ask for permits. Most municipalities require electrical permits for the installation of these generators. A professional generator seller will also be able to provide you with additional information regarding the proper location of your unit. A standby generator is an excellent investment that can make your home safer during power outages.
Another important factor to consider is fuel source. You can choose a generator powered by natural gas or propane. Each fuel has advantages and disadvantages. You should decide which one suits your home best, based on your requirements and usage.
Compliance with local regulations
When installing a standby generator, it is important to comply with local codes and regulations. While the NFPA 110 code covers the details of emergency power systems, different regions will have a different set of regulations. It is important to work with a generator supplier who is knowledgeable of all applicable codes.
In some areas, you may also need an air permit to install a generator. This permit will depend on the type of generator and the location of the generator. You may be required to obtain an operating permit, an air permit, or a construction permit depending on your location. Some areas require generator owners to report on their air quality regularly. Fortunately, an automated monitoring solution can make this process much easier.
Proper placement is also essential. In most cases, a generator should be installed outside and at least five feet from the nearest wall. However, it is also important to avoid putting the generator inside a building.
Noise pollution
Choosing the right location for your standby generator is crucial for noise pollution mitigation. You want to install it so that it is well away from your home or business so that the noise will not disturb neighbors or people inside the building. The ideal location would be a few feet from your building, and you should ensure that you have a solid foundation for the generator. The base should be made of concrete or have prefabricated generator pads installed.
The noise generated by a standby generator will vary depending on the type and size of the generator, as well as the radiator fan style. Some standby generators can emit as much as 80 decibels, which is a significant amount of noise. While this level isn’t dangerous for humans, it can cause damage to power generation equipment. Noise-dampening materials, such as decoupled weighted barriers, can be used to dampen noise from power generation equipment. To further reduce noise, you can add foam to the barriers.
Another way to reduce noise from generators is to install sound-absorbing materials around the unit. Sound-absorbing walls and barriers can help reduce noise by ten to fifteen decibels. These barriers can be either permanent or temporary and can be easily moved. If you can’t afford to install a permanent sound-dampening structure, acoustic panels are a good choice.
Cost of installation
The cost of installing a standby generator varies greatly. The average cost is between $8,000 and $15,000, depending on your location and individual circumstances. Some standby generators need an electrician to install a transfer switch, which will allow your standby generator to use your existing circuits. This process can take three to four hours and will cost an additional $1,000 or more. Transfer switches can be manual or automatic. The latter can sense when the power goes out and switch to the standby generator.
If you’re installing a permanent generator, you will need a dedicated fuel source. In most areas, propane and natural gas are available. If natural gas isn’t available, you’ll need to purchase a propane tank and have it installed on your property. Propane burns cleaner, but it is less efficient than natural gas.
A standby generator connects to all electrical circuits in your home, but you must consider which circuits are essential. Some of these include your refrigerator, freezer, kitchen receptacles, gas furnace fan blower motor, garage door opener, and sump and water pumps. If you’re not sure which circuits are essential, you can ask an electrical contractor to help you determine the wattage requirements.