Optimal Placement: Best Location for a Standby Generator

Standby generators give homeowners more than power; they give peace of mind. The standby generator market surpassed $23.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to keep rising. Optimal placement is crucial to ensure your generator operates efficiently and safely for years to come.

The NFPA rules that govern placement

Many placement rules are set by the National Fire Protection Association. Standby generators must be at least 1.5 feet away from your home or another permanent structure, vegetation should be no taller than 12 inches and at least three feet away, and the unit cannot be within five feet of exterior doors and windows of any occupied building. The exhaust pipe should face away from any building to prevent carbon monoxide from entering.

The best location for a standby generator

In windy areas, place the generator even further away to keep exhaust from blowing back inside. Never install it under a roof, awning, or overhang, where exhaust fumes can get trapped. Some manufacturers recommend at least 5 feet from any building for proper airflow and to keep your warranty valid. State and local codes may add their own setbacks, so consult your installer and manufacturer.

Other considerations

Noise

Modern standby generators are fairly quiet, but check local noise ordinances and look for high-quality units that publish their decibel rating.

Fuel source

For propane, keep enough distance between the tank and generator. For natural gas, place the generator as close to the gas meter as possible; the further away, the more a new or extended gas line will cost, and that line must not interfere with other underground utilities.

Stability and drainage

Set the generator on a stable composite pad or concrete slab, keep it level, and ensure the soil drains properly away from gutters and downspouts. If drainage is poor, dig out the area and replace soil with gravel or sand.

Maintenance access

Have the unit inspected once a year by a licensed electrician, with oil changed every two years or more often. Choose a spot technicians can reach easily, and keep snow cleared around it so it does not overheat or stall.

Good placement equals good service

With the right placement, your standby generator will deliver reliable backup power for years. A&A GenPro's installers know the NFPA and local Houston rules. Call (713) 715-6618 or request a free quote to get your placement right.