Introduction to Installing a Home Standby Generator

Posted by The Popular News Today on Monday, August 8, 2011

By Simmons Paul


You have either already purchased a Home Standby Generator or you think you are just about to. Please consider these few points.

Location for your Standby Generator:

Most Standby Generators are fixed and so you are going to have to find a spot on your property to locate the new machine. This spot will need a solid floor.

Enclosure:

Many Standby Generators are encased to protect them from the elements, but not all are. You may have to build a roof and walls to protect you machine. Not only that, but cold conditions, especially snow and frost, impact on the performance of the generator and particularly its fuel consumption.

Noise Pollution:

Noise is also an issue. You will want to ensure that your standby generator is located far away enough from both your house and your neighbors so as not to be a noisy inconvenience.

The Big Lift:

You will not be able to maneuver the machine into position yourself. Unless the retailer has offered to deliver the generator to your prepared location you will have to arrange for a few friends to help out.

Fuel Supply to the Generator:

The generator will either be connected to the same gas line as supplies your home or it will have its own fuel supply. Either way you must take this into consideration both when deciding on where to locate your generator (you want to near the fuel line) and you’ll want to have a plumber lined up to do the necessary connections.

Power Supply from the Generator:

You will also need to connect your standby generator to your home power supply. This is most likely a task for a qualified electrician.

Transfer Switch?

Depending on the model you own you may or may not require a transfer switch which is a buffer between the power produced by the generator and the power used by domestic appliances.

Negotiate with the Seller:

A Standby Generator is going to cost you thousands of dollars. Anyone willing to spend that kind of money with a retailer is in a good position to discuss terms. You may find the dealer is willing to take on responsibility for many of the issues list above. Indeed, some will deliver, and install.




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