Bright Sparks: A Blog About Electricians And Reducing Hazards

« Back to Home

Tips When Installing a Generator

Posted on

A generator can be the perfect addition to your commercial property. It allows you to have access to power even in the event of a blackout. This is essential when you have a business that relies heavily on electricity. Before you begin the installation of a generator on your property, it is important that you are aware of installation tips that are designed to make the process simpler and ensure that your generator is functioning properly to provide power in the event of a power outage.

Location

The main thing that you need to consider when you are installing a generator is the location where you want to position it. It is suggested that you always install a generator outdoors. This is ideal to ensure that carbon monoxide poisoning does not take place due to the engine that is outfitted in most standby generators. Fuel is used to produce energy with a generator, which means that fumes are emitted as a result. This means that the generator should be installed outside the commercial property and a far distance from all openings including windows.

Level

Once you have found a position outdoors that is suitable for a generator, you need to be sure that the ground is level. There are a number of issues that can come about if you install a generator on ground that is not level. Putting down gravel is the best way to makes sure that the area is level before you install the generator. Once you have the generator on level ground, you can then install the fuel source. Generators that function with the use of gasoline are the most common and allow you to fill it directly. It is also possible to obtain a generator that will run with the use of propane as the fuel source. Propane generators are sometimes preferred because propane is easier to store for long periods of time.

Circuit Breaker

Once you have the fuel source added to the generator, you can then make sure that your generator is routed to the transfer switch on the circuit breaker for your building. The transfer switch is what allows a signal to be sent to your generator when the power source cuts off. This means that your generator will power on automatically when it is connected to the transfer switch. Make sure that all circuits that are connected to the transfer switch are connected to devices that you want to keep powered in the event of a power outage.

For assistance, talk to a commercial electrician.


Share