Considerations to Make When Installing a Backup Generator
A backup generator can bring peace of mind during power outages by ensuring essential appliances and systems in your home remain operational. But installing one requires thoughtful consideration and strict adherence to safety precautions to safeguard you and your property from potential risks.
1. Assess Power Requirements
Before purchasing a backup generator, assessing your power needs is crucial. First, calculate the total wattage required by essential appliances and systems such as refrigerators, heating or cooling units, medical equipment, and lighting to help determine a generator’s size and capacity requirements. This assessment will assist with making an informed decision when making a purchase.
2. Select an Appropriate Location
When choosing an ideal generator installation spot, consider ventilation needs, maintenance accessibility, noise concerns, and disruption potential.
3. Seek Advice From Professionals
Professional electricians or generator installation experts should always be consulted for a safe and proper setup for things like load calculations, electrical connections, and compliance with local building codes and regulations.
4. Ensure Proper Grounding and Electrical Connections
Proper grounding of generators is of great importance for your safety. Always ensure it complies with manufacturer instructions and local electrical codes. Incorrect grounding could create electrical hazards that may damage equipment. Involving an electrician for all electrical connections will ensure they meet quality and safety standards.
5. Install an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is essential when installing generators. When the grid power goes off, an ATS automatically senses power loss and transfers load onto the generator without back-feeding. Only licensed electricians should install and connect an ATS to the main electrical panel.
6. Ensure Fuel Storage and Ventilation
Proper fuel storage is vital to keeping you safe. Always follow local regulations regarding storing gasoline, propane, and diesel fuel; use approved containers with tight-fitting lids in a well-ventilated space away from ignition sources. Regularly inspect and maintain this storage to prevent leaks or degradation.
7. Monitor Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible and odorless gas generators produce. It should be monitored closely at home to provide early warning of CO buildup. Never operate your generator indoors or in enclosed spaces as this poses a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Installing a backup generator requires careful consideration of safety precautions and setup procedures from assessing your power requirements to selecting an ideal location. Don’t wait for power outages to leave you in the dark! At Economy Lighting and Electrical, we offer reliable backup generator installation services in Camarillo, CA; give us a call today to learn more.
