New Generac Generators: Where to Install It? And What Size?
Are you frequently impacted by power outages while noticing how popular new Generac generators are getting? Do you find yourself lighting candles and using a camping stove every time an outage hits?
A home standby generator could make a lot of sense. As an immediate backup power source, a home backup generator is usually the right solution. Whenever your electricity goes down, a generator will kick into action, protecting your home from power surges and ensuring electricity during outages.
However, before purchasing and installing one, there are some things to consider. The primary question is: Where should your standby generator be installed? Are there specific places on your property where it should be installed, or can it be installed just about anywhere?
The Perfect Location for New Generac Generators
New Generac generators should naturally be installed outside your home for a variety of reasons, including convenience. Connecting to a natural gas utility line or a liquid propane tank from outside is easier than not, and there’s less noise.
But where’s the perfect location? That depends on the layout of your home’s perimeter to items located on your outside property.
- Generators should be placed in open spaces. This prevents any exhaust fumes and heat dissipation from being trapped in one location, allowing your generator to ventilate. It also reduces the risk of fires. That open space must be sufficient to accommodate regular maintenance and servicing. Also, your generator should be placed on stable ground.
- Any exhaust should be directed away from the house. Ideally, you should install your generator in a location where the exhaust will face away from your home. The wind will blow it away from your home, ensuring no fumes enter. Thankfully, natural gas and liquid propane generators burn the cleanest source of energy around.
- Keep away from bedrooms. Generators shouldn’t be placed near bedrooms because the noise can be off-putting and make sleeping difficult.
- Keep away from neighbors. Your generator should be installed as far as possible from your neighbor’s bedroom. You don’t want to disturb them with the noise your product will make when it’s running.
Also, make sure the ground isn’t flooded or loose from dampness, as this can cause a variety of problems.
Consult Your Local Building Codes and Owner’s Manual
You should check your local building regulations regardless of where the manufacturer recommends homeowners have their new Generac generators installed. Whole-house generators are oftentimes subject to rules regarding where they can be placed and hooked up.
A permit is also required for the installation of a generator. Additionally, some regulations may require you to install a generator pad as well, which is usually a concrete bed for your generator. Before choosing a generator location, you must consider these factors. You might need a pad if your land isn’t stable enough naturally.
A reputable generator installation company with experience can guide you through this process, as a local service usually knows regional building codes and other permitting information. Together, you can determine the best location for your new generator.
Your generator’s owner’s manual will be available when you purchase it — and it may also have some last-minute location tips as well. It will also explain how to use, maintain, and install a generator. You won’t be expected to do this yourself if you hire the experts to install it for you, which is recommended.
In any case, you can get an idea of where to place your generator based on the installation guide. The manufacturer usually provides a few different locations. In fact, this should be your very first step — locating the generator’s recommended location according to the company that made it. They usually know what’s best, in cooperation with a local installation expert.
New Generac Generators: What Size Do You Need and Why?
New Generac Generators should be selected according to their size to ensure uninterrupted power and maximization of longevity and efficiency. In the event of an unexpected power outage, you can continue your daily activities uninterrupted with a generator that’s been right-sized for your home.
You won’t miss that relaxing movie night, or even a day of work-from-home with the right generator. A consistent supply of power will also prevent your appliances from being damaged by unexpected surges and drops in electricity.
Cost savings should also be considered. By choosing a generator that matches your power needs, you can save a considerable amount of fuel. When an oversized generator runs at low capacity, it consumes more fuel than an undersized one will — both of which result in waste. The goal of efficient fuel consumption isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about reducing your carbon footprint for those who lean that way. Pollutants are reduced when a generator runs efficiently.
Cost effectiveness over the long run is a major factor to consider, as well as reduced wear and tear. You won’t continually stress-out a unit when it complements your home’s power needs. As a result of this balance, your equipment lasts much longer. It may be a pricey upfront cost, but a generator with a long lifespan will ensure you get the most from your purchase, reducing long-term replacement and repair expenses.
It’s equally important to maintain safety. Generators that are appropriately sized can handle power demands safely, reducing the risk of overloads and fires. A generator that’s overworked or constantly strained may malfunction or produce higher emissions. All around, your family and friends will be safer if you ensure the generator is properly sized.
Energy Audit, Appliance Ranking, and Choosing by Locality
With the ultimate backup power solution that new Generac generators offer, determining how much power your home needs isn’t just about convenience — it’s also about efficiency, cost savings, and ensuring your generator’s longevity. Here are some considerations:
- Conduct an energy audit of your home before making any decisions. List every device and appliance that needs power during an outage. Everything counts, from your favorite coffee maker to essential medical equipment. An appliance’s starting wattage (power to start it) should also be understood, as well as its running wattage (power to keep it running).
- Separate your appliances into different categories. Medical devices such as refrigeration, heating, and lighting are “essentials.” Air conditioning, entertainment systems, and other non-essential items fall into the “luxuries” category. Choosing a generator that covers just the basics versus one that covers your entire home will depend on this distinction. You should also consider any future additions to your home. Is central air conditioning or a hot tub on your wishlist? When choosing the generator size, consider potential future upgrades and the electricity they will draw.
- There may be variations in power requirements. Depending on the region or state, seasonal changes can be stark. Summer could see a surge in air conditioning use, while winter might require more heating power. Make sure your generator can handle these fluctuations. The task of understanding your power needs shouldn’t be taken lightly. A combination of current assessment and future forecasting is key, ensuring your home remains a beacon of warmth and comfort even when the power goes out.
W. Danley Electrical
At W. Danley Electrical, we assist you throughout the entire process — from helping you prepare for installation, repair, and maintenance to anything else surrounding new Generac generators, as well as 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.