Wondering about the safest place to put a generator in your home? An expert in standby generator installation will determine the best spot for your generator. However, having an idea of where this device might go can help you prepare for the installation process.
Where you decide to put your generator isn’t just a matter of appearance. The location matters for a number of safety reasons.
That’s why the first step in generator installation is contacting a licensed electrician. At Oak Electric, our team is experienced in generator installations in Howell, MI, and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
Where is the Safest Place to Put a Generator?
Making sure your home has a safe spot for your generator installation is important because generators produce carbon monoxide. It’s crucial to find a spot where this exhaust can’t enter your home. In addition, generators operate at high temperatures that can pose a fire hazard, especially if near combustible materials.
There are several regulations concerning where generator installations can be placed, including:
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
- Generator manufacturer’s specifications
- Zoning codes in your local city or township
At Oak Electric, our skilled electricians will consider all these regulations when finding the perfect spot for your generator. Some tips for finding the best spot for a generator installation are:
Distance from Openings
The NFPA and most local codes in Michigan state that a generator installation should be a minimum distance of five feet away from any operable opening in your home, including:
- Windows
- Doors
- Vents
- Basement windows
- Fresh air intakes for furnace or HVAC vents
This distance is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide exhaust from entering and building up in your home, which can be fatal.
Clearance from Walls
The five foot rule also applies to the distance the generator installation should be from the house itself. This distance is especially important for homes made with combustible wall materials, such as wood or vinyl siding.
Maintaining a five foot clearance is essential so that the heat and the exhaust from the generator don’t cause the material to ignite.
One exception to this is for certain generator models that have been certified to show they don’t transfer a dangerous amount of heat. In this case, these generators can be placed no closer than 18 inches from a home, as long as the home is made from non-combustible materials. Otherwise, the five foot distance should still be maintained.
Room for Airflow & Maintenance
Generator installations also need to have enough distance for adequate airflow. Airflow is important for allowing the machine to stay cool and prevent exhaust from building up. Most generator manufacturers require generators to be placed at least three feet away from shrubs, trees, and other obstructions.
Airflow is one reason why generators need to be placed outdoors in a relatively open area. Hidden spots like under porches or decks, or inside garages or sheds, are dangerous.
Need Professional Generator Installation? Contact Oak Electric
If you need help with backup generator installation in Howell, MI, or the surrounding areas, contact our team at Oak Electric. As a family-owned, local company, we pride ourselves on serving the Metro Detroit community.
With over 50 years of experience and hundreds of five-star Google reviews, our team has the skills, experience, and knowledge necessary to handle your generator installation properly.
We handle an average of 10 generator installations per day, making us an expert at the installation process. In addition, we can service your unit after it is set up, with our routine maintenance and repair services.
Want to learn more about our generator setup services? Call (800) 964-7070 or contact us online today to get started.
