Generator Installation: Preparation, Considerations, & More

A home generator installation isn’t something you should try on your own. Making sure it’s done right will eliminate the risks of gas leaks, electric shocks, and more.

Installing a generator properly and making sure you and your family are safe takes a lot of steps. With our help, you’ll need to obtain the right building permits where applicable, find the right place for the standby generator, and also install the correct automatic transfer switch. In fact, something as small as the right valves for the type of gas you’re using are also needed for gas-powered generators. All this to say, it’s worth having a professional installer correctly install your home standby generator the first time.

Just know that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to a generator installation. Installation costs are unique because of where the generator is located, how much material is needed, and how the fuel source is implemented. A consultation in your home is the best way to find these things out. You’ll get a detailed quote after we listen to your needs.

 

Prepare for Your Generator Installation

You might need a city permit to complete a generator installation on your property depending on where you live. Some homeowners do, but fortunately many do not. Learn more about fees at your local city office. Since W. Danley Electrical is familiar with the process, our experts can help you through any permit-related cost inquiries and provide the guidance you deserve.

There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding where to put your generator. Some details that factor into the cost of a generator installation are the distance from your fuel source and circuit panel to the generator. It’s important to find a balance between hearing the generator, putting it out of sight, and lowering installation costs.

Depending on what you need, you may also have to upgrade your liquid propane tank or get a new natural gas meter. These changes can affect the cost of a natural gas generator installation, even though they’re usually minimal compared to total costs.

Generac is one of the most popular brands. With many options available at your fingertips, Generac has consistently been rated one of America’s top brands. One of our team members can help you learn more about Generac standby generators and the installation process for your home — and eventually schedule your installation day with one of our professional installers.

 

Things to Consider Before Installation

Choosing a location is the first step in your generator installation journey. You’ll pick where you want the generator physically located after a consultation. The location should be stable, well-drained, and not prone to flooding. For our technician to do the job right, there should be plenty of space surrounding the generator.

When choosing a site around your house, our experts will take into account any homeowner association (HOA) or community restrictions. Here are some approximate clearances to keep in mind:

  • Approximately 1.5 feet from the house — or more.
  • About 3 feet of room in front of any generator for space to service it.
  • At least 5 feet from any doors, windows, and fresh air intakes to your house.

Natural gas lines and electrical meters are usually closer to the site many homeowners pick, which can help save some money on your generator installation. We’ll lay a concrete slab or pea gravel on the site, which we’ll then place the generator on. It all depends on the ground, the type of property you live on, and the perimeter of your property. One of our qualified and knowledgeable installers will properly assess and troubleshoot any issues.

A part of the generator installation process, a backup home generator placed near a home and on an elevator surface.

Final Steps of Generator Installation

We’ll connect your fuel line next. We’ll also install a transfer switch next to the main breaker box. When the power goes out, the transfer switch switches over to generator power.

You’ll get a checkup from your technician. However, to make sure everything continues to work, you’ll need to do weekly self-tests. We’ll teach you how.

 

W. Danley Electrical

At W. Danley Electrical, we assist you throughout the entire process — from answering questions you may have about home backup generator models to helping you prepare for the generator installation process, to obtaining permits, inspections, and much more. We help you optimize and fine-tune your situation so you get the most out of your investment, as well as determine the correct generator size. Contact us today.

Turn to Us for Your Generator Installation in New Jersey

Serving Monroe Township, Marlboro, Manalapan & Beyond

Your generator is often the only power supply you can depend on. As such, it is vital to correctly install it and ensure it’s working optimally. An installation professional is essential, particularly if you have important equipment that needs to be kept powered 24/7. We are an experienced generator installer and maintenance company, covering the whole of New Jersey. If you want to leave your generator in safe hands, we are here for you.

Wide Range of Backup Generator Options for New Jersey Homes and Businesses

We provide a complete generator service for domestic and commercial customers in Monroe Township, Manalapan & Marlboro NJ. Whether you need to purchase a generator, have it installed or take advantage of our reasonable maintenance cost, we are generator specialists you can depend on. To find out more about our generators, arrange installation or for anything else, call us at (732) 658-0190.

Emergency Generator Service in New Jersey

Worried about Hurricane’s or storms hitting the NJ area? The Generator team at Danley monitors developing storms and are always ready to mobilize and help people throughout our NJ service area.We are here for you and your family for Emergency Generator Service caused by storms, hurricanes, and more.

FREE In-Home Assessment – Call: (732) 432-0164