Prep Work Required Before A Generator Installation Is Done
If you're tired of scrambling for candles and flashlights when the power goes out, consider getting a standby generator installed. These generators operate on natural gas or propane, and they work automatically. This is much better than using a dangerous gasoline-powered generator that you have to fill frequently and store gasoline to use.
If your home already uses natural gas or propane, then installation will be easier. If you don't have gas already, you'll need to have it installed before your generator is set up. Here are more important details about generator installation.
Discuss Where To Place The Generator
When the installer visits your home to plan the installation process, you can discuss the best place to put the generator. It should be away from windows, but near a gas line and electricity if possible. The generator can be placed away from existing gas lines, but installation will probably cost more if new lines have to be installed.
The generator should be placed so there is plenty of room to work on the unit from all sides and above. The location should be near your house in a dry location that has good drainage. When the spot is located, you can have a slab put in so it's ready to use when the generator installation is done.
Choose A Spot For The Transfer Switch
The transfer switch is what allows the generator to automatically switch from the grid to the generator and then back to the grid when power returns. The switch is behind a panel that hangs on the wall of your house. Ideally, it will be near the electrical panel and generator so everything is close together.
Get Gas Lines Ready
The generator installers may be licensed to also work with gas so they can get your generator hooked up. If not, you'll need to arrange for a plumber to install the gas lines ahead of installation day. If you'll be getting propane for the first time, you'll need to have a propane tank installed along with a pipe that delivers the gas to your home.
If you'll get natural gas for the first time, you'll need the gas company to install a meter and have gas hooked up to your house so it's ready to connect to the generator when installation day arrives.
Set Up And Connect The Generator
With this prep work complete, the generator installation should go fairly quickly. The installer has to set the generator up on the concrete pad and hook it to the gas line. Then they'll hook the generator up to the transfer switch.
When everything is ready, the installer has to run checks and make sure the generator starts up and shuts down properly. That ensures the next time the power goes out, you can wait a few seconds for the power to come back on automatically rather than shuffle through the dark looking for a flashlight.
To learn more, contact a generator installation service such as Seltec Electrical Services.
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