Standby generators give homeowners more than just power, they also give peace of mind. According to recent data, the standby generator market surpassed $23.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to rise even further in the future.
Optimal generator placement is crucial to ensure that your generator operates as efficiently as possible.
Read on to discover the best location to install a standby generator to ensure it’s working to maximum capacity.
Basic Generator Installation Guide
Before we discuss the best location for a standby generator, it’s important to note that the location is largely dependent on certain rules. Many of those rules are set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes.
These NFPA codes say that stand generators must be at least 1.5 feet away from your property or another permanent structure like your garage or shed. The purpose of these rules is to ensure that the generator doesn’t catch your home or other property on fire.
Vegetation (trees, shrubs, etc.) should also be no taller than 12 inches and within at least three feet or more away from your stand generator. Items like your home’s gas meter, air conditioning unit, and other equipment should also be a specific distance away.
The NFPA rules also state that standby generators cannot be within five feet of exterior doors and windows of any occupied building. Whether it’s your home, a workshop, or any other structure, that is the general rule in terms of safety. The exhaust pipe should face away from any of those buildings to prevent exhaust from getting inside and causing carbon monoxide poisoning.
The Best Location for a Standby Generator
As we mentioned, your standby generator should always be at least 1.5 feet from your home. If you live in a windy area, it should be placed even further away to prevent the exhaust from blowing back inside. We also recommend installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home, just to be safe.
Standby generators should also never be placed directly under a roof, awning, or other type of overhang. If it’s installed under any of these, the exhaust fumes may become trapped, increasing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if you stand near it when it’s operating.
Some generator manufacturers say the unit should be no less than 5 feet away from any building to ensure proper airflow. This also helps to prevent your generator from overheating, and it ensures that your warranty remains valid once it’s installed.
Aside from the national rules on standby generators, there are also state and local codes that may also have their own specific set of rules. Those rules typically include how far away the exhaust port should be from your windows and doors.
So, the best location for a standby generator is:
- At least 1.5 feet from homes or other structures
- No less than three feet from vegetation
- Away from roofs, awnings, and overhangs
- At least 5 feet away from windows and doors
It’s always best to consult with your generator installer and/or the manufacturer to determine optimal generator placement. Your installer should be familiar with the NFPA rules and with specific state and local rules as well.
Other Considerations
Aside from these general rules for the placement of your standby generator, there are some other things to keep in mind, too. Here are a few factors to consider when you’re deciding where to place your home backup power.
Noise
Most modern standby generators are fairly quiet and shouldn’t disturb you or your neighbors. However, there might be some rules regarding how many decibels your generator produces, since it can affect those around you.
Look for high-quality units that specifically state their decibel rating to ensure you choose the quietest option possible. Check with your local regulators to find out more information about their noise ordinance before you buy a new standby generator.
Fuel Source
Most standby generators are either powered with a propane tank or connected to a natural gas supply. If you opt for a propane tank, make sure there is enough distance between the tank and your generator.
If you’re connecting to your home’s natural gas supply, try to place the generator as close to the gas meter as possible. The further away from the gas meter, the more it will cost to install since a new or extended gas line might be required. If you do need to get an extended gas line, make sure that it’s not going to interfere with other underground utilities.
Stability
Your standby generator should always sit on a stable base such as a special composite pad or a concrete slab. Make sure that the soil is stable wherever you place the base to keep the generator from shifting.
The generator must also be level, and the soil should drain properly where it sits. You should also ensure that it’s not located anywhere near a water source, such as gutters or downspouts.
If your soil doesn’t drain very well, you might have to make a few changes. For example, you can dig the area where you plan to install your generator and replace the soil there with gravel or sand, which drains more effectively.
A Note on Maintenance
Once your standby generator is installed, it should be inspected once per year by a licensed electrician. The oil should be changed every two years or more often as well.
Choose a location for your generator that is easy to access so maintenance workers can access it without issue. It’s also important to ensure that you remove snow from around the generator so it’s not blocked, which could cause it to overheat or stop working.
Good Placement Equals Good Service
Once you know the best location for a standby generator, you’ll get peace of mind. With the right placement, your standby generator will provide you with backup power for years to come.
We aim to provide the highest level of service to our customers. If you’re interested in a standby generator or would like to learn more, contact us today.
(713) 830 3280