Comments and Questions about Home Generators |
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Installing Home GeneratorsAnthony, from La Grange, Illinois asks: I have a Generac Model 5837 Core Power generator with 50 amp automatic transfer switch. My house has a 100 amp service. The generator is a natural gas model with automatic start and transfer. I am only going to support certain loads such as the sump pump, refrigerator, furnace (no air conditioner) and a few lights. The village where I live has adopted NEC 1999 as electrical code. How far from the house must generator be? Dave's Answer: Generator InstallationThe generator must not be installed indoor.The installation of the generator must be 5' from the building structure. A typical gas and electric install 5' from structure. This has now become the standard installations as per NFPA 37. Installation Clearance Considerations: 5' from the gas meter and main electrical panel. 5' from windows, doors, ventilation, wall mounted air conditioners, or other openings to prevent exhaust gas from entering the building structure. Do not install under a wooden deck or other structure. Must not obstruct or affect access to services. Must not be installed on top of service conduits such as electrical, water, gas, fuel, phone, air conditioning, irrigation. Must not be installed where strong prevailing winds blow from one direction, face the generator air inlet openings. Install the generator as close as possible to: The fuel supply to reduce the length of pipe used, however maintain required clearances. The transfer switch, with regard to local codes which may regulate distance and location. All exposed gas pipe is painted. The minimum distance from a building for Generator: NFPA 37, Section 4.1.4, Engines Located Outdoors. Engines, and their weatherproof housings if provided, that are installed outdoors shall be located at least 5 ft. from openings in walls and at least 5 ft. from structures having combustible walls. A minimum separation shall not be required where the following conditions exist: 1. The adjacent wall of the structure has a fire resistance rating of at least 1 hour. 2. The weatherproof enclosure is constructed of noncombustible materials and it has been demonstrated that a fire within the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure. |
