How to Choose the Location for Your New Generator

Once a generator is sized and the fuel type is determined, it is time to decide the right location for the generator. This leaves the decision as to whether or not the generator should be installed inside the building or outside the building.
 

Indoor Generator Installation

If the decision is made to install the generator inside a building, there are many considerations to be accounted for. The generator must be installed in an area where noise is not going to be an issue for employees inside the building. A generator can be as loud as 95dBA @ 23 feet, and when installed inside, does not have the benefit of having a sound attenuated enclosure.

The floor must be structurally capable of bearing the weight of a generator set than can weigh several thousands of pounds. The chosen room must have adequate louvers for both air intake and air discharge. The exhaust muffler and piping will need to be hung and insulated by a mechanical contractor, thus negating could be 1000 degree pipe.

The radiator must also be ducted to the exterior louver, allowing cooling air to pass across the engine as it is discharged from the room. Finally, access must be considered for future maintenance and fueling of this generator set.

Outdoor Generator Installation

For outdoor installation, it is common to want to place the generator out of sight. It is very important to also consider access to the generator set for fueling and maintenance when determining a final location.

Noise is also a consideration, as different jurisdictions have varying requirements for acceptable noise levels. Fortunately, there are multiple options from Generac for different levels of outdoor, sound attenuated enclosures.

Other considerations are adequate door swing clearance, spacing to nearby bushes and shrubs to prevent potential fires, distances from transformers and service entrance equipment to meet National Electric Code, and UBC requirements for diesel fuel storage in relationship to the building.   

Questions on where to install your generator, contact our power systems specialists today.