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 As Doug Gholson of MB Heating Cooling Plumbing &
Electric of Mount Pulaski says, homeowners do not generally know the
electrical load or if their electrical panel is up to code.
Therefore, the homeowner may undersize or oversize a generator.
A professional can do a load test and tell exactly what size will be
needed. Gholson said our job is to know the code and whether those
appliances fit the specifications. Our electrical contractors are
certified and do annual continuing education to stay up to date on
codes.
The codes generally require an electrician to hook up a generator to
the proper wiring and switches. Doug says certain switches only work
for certain sized loads and professionals can tell whether you
should use a transfer switch or interlock switch based on your
needs.
One major reason to have a professional install the generator is
that if it is improperly installed, Gholson said the generator’s
warranty could be null and void.
Additionally, installing a generator on your own may present some
dangers. Local electrician David Blankenship shared several common
mistakes that can be made when installing generators.
• The utility natural gas meter is too small for the connected
appliance load.
• Inadequate LP/propane and natural gas pressure.
• Improperly sized LP/propane and natural gas piping.
• Failing to meet or exceed the manufacturer’s minimum engine start
battery sizing recommendations.
• Improper placement of the generator with minimum clearance not
followed.
• Not understanding the importance of having the back-up generator
level.
• Failing to install seasonal maintainers such as battery, oil and
coolant warmers.
• Improper and/or potentially hazardous workmanship.
• Improper programming of the controller and/or transfer switch
settings.
• Failing to properly size the generator based on starting and
running loads with intermittent use factor applied.
• Overloading the generator.
• Misunderstanding the generator rating, running watts, starting
watts, voltage, frequency, regulation and standby prime power
ratings and fuel type de-rating specifications.
• Dangerous or improper wiring methods.
• Choosing the wrong manual or automatic transfer switch.
• Improper grounding.
• Operating a generator in a manner that could lead to asphyxiation
from carbon monoxide.
• Overheating due to impeded or inadequate cooling ventilation
• Failing to perform timely maintenance in accordance with
manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Failing to protect against rodents, landscape debris, falling
debris such as tree limbs, mower clippings, standing water or
drifting snow. Portable generators should be protected against any
type of precipitation.
• Failing to comply with local ordinances including but not limited
to homeowner’s association and covenant agreements regarding sound
restrictions.
• Purchasing by price point only and not researching warranties,
dealer network, dealer experience, customer reviews and build
quality.
When asked about the most common problem he experiences, Blankenship
said it the under-sizing of all aspects of the installation. The
second most common problem is installations performed by unskilled,
untrained or novice installer.
Blankenship said homeowners or business owners should always consult
with a professional dealer installer prior to purchasing a generator
online or at a mass merchant. That will ensure they purchase the
proper equipment. Many dealers/electricians prefer not to install
equipment they do not provide themselves.
There are several ways Blankenship said you can extend
standby/portable generator longevity, reliability and functionality.
Standby generators should be elevated and not be installed close to
the ground. Placing approximately two feet of jagged or rough
landscape border rock around the perimeter of unit can help prevent
mice penetration. Installing a remote engine start battery in a
temperature-controlled environment such as a basement can also help.
Other ways to improve generator longevity and functionality would be
using high quality, properly rated synthetic oil, keeping it clean
both inside and out and using a quality surge protection device.
In addition, having a dealer install a mobile monitoring system
which works via cell phone can keep the homeowner or business owner
up to date regarding the generator status and condition. Another
monitoring method would be a remote annunciation panel placed inside
the residence or business.
To show proper techniques, Frank Asaro of Cummins Power describes
the basics of installing a backup home generator.
Asaro says a standby generator should be connected to a continuous
fuel supply and connected to your existing home electrical panel.
The location is key to keeping installation costs low; however,
precautions must be taken where the unit is installed. If placing
the generator away from the home, consider how trenching will need
to be done to run electrical wires and fuel supplies back to the
generator.
Keep in mind how the electrical lines will be run from the generator
into your home. Though it is best to try to enter your home close to
the existing electrical panel Asaro says when it is not possible,
alternative wiring runs should be completed.
Since generators burn gaseous fuels and generate heat during
operation, you must carefully consider where they are placed. Keep
generators away from open windows and occupied areas that could
accumulate exhaust. Also keep the area around the generator clear
from flammable materials.
Consider weather situations and do not place the generator in an
area where water can accumulate and rise or colder climates where
snowdrifts may build up.
There are many considerations for deciding where to install a
generator. Generator professionals will often offer a free estimate
and walk you through what should be considered.
Do not attempt to install the power system on your own. Qualified
and licensed professionals need to make the electrical connections
and install the fuel systems.
Installation requires a variety of hand and power tools, test
equipment and professional disciplines acquired with specialized
training.
Asaro says improper installations present hazards which can cause
bodily injury, harm and possibly even death.
See "Basics of
installing a backup home generator by Cummins Power Generation"
Following specific tips will help avoid possible hazards when using
a generator.
[to top of second column] |
Master Electrician Heath Eastman of This Old House
explains some ways that a portable generator can be professionally
wired to a house.
The first tip is to never place the generator indoors or in a
garage, as it generates carbon monoxide and could be fatal. Always
place it just on the outside of the house.
One cord is plugged into a receptacle on the generator and the other
end is plugged into a power inlet box. The electrician can then wire
the power inlet box into the house and connect it to the electrical
panel.
When connecting to an electrical panel, it can be
done in two ways:
a. The electrician can install a manual transfer switch, which
connects to a selection of emergency circuits most likely to be
needed when the power is out. Then, in case of a power outage, the
transfer switch can be powered on.
b. The electrician can utilize an interlock switch that locks
out/shuts off the main breaker while simultaneously turning on an
emergency generator breaker. The interlock device allows only one
power source at a time to feed circuits, either generator or utility
power. In the event of a power outage, the interlock device is
manually activated to enable generator power, allowing
generator/emergency power to feed the selected circuits. An
interlock device can be used to power only emergency circuits or the
whole house.
Make sure that the connected loads do not exceed the generator’s
capacity.
It is notable that both types of switches should only be installed
by a qualified electrician, but can be purchased from an electrical
supply house.
How to Wire a
Portable Generator
Knowing how big a generator is, what it is going to run and what the
power source is are all important when using a generator.
This Old House shows a natural gas generator, which will run
indefinitely unless there is a problem with the grid.
The emergency load generator will run a percentage of the house like
refrigeration, heating and lights, but not bigger appliances.
The 14-kilowatt system shown monitors itself and starts itself up on
a regular basis to do a diagnostic and make sure there are no
problems with it. A check will show if there is a problem.
A panel with the automatic transfer system, controls whether the
house runs under generator power or regular power.
When the power goes out, the system waits to see if there is an
actual blackout and not a brownout. Once the system realizes it is a
full blackout, it will tell the generator to start. First, the
system will allow the generator to warm up and then automatically
transfer power over to the generator.
Once the power comes back on, the same thing happens in reverse
after making sure the power came back on fully. The power will
transfer back over to the grid, and the generator will run a cool
down cycle and shut itself off.
To show how the system works, the guys simulate a power outage and
shut off the sub breaker. When they shut the sub breaker off, the
generator comes on in about 15 seconds.
How to Choose
and Install a Backup Generator
During and after the installation, it is important to utilize safe
practices when it comes to using generators.
The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) says portable
back-up generators provide a good source of temporary power during
outages or natural disasters. However, they can be dangerous or even
deadly if not properly installed and operated.
ESFI recommends generators be installed by electricians in
accordance with all national and local codes.
As ESFI says, understanding dangers associated with portable
generators and practicing good safety habits could save your life.
Here are several tips:
1. The first rule of generator safety is to make sure your home is
equipped with battery operated or battery backup carbon monoxide
alarms.
2. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring without an
appropriate transfer switch installed. Without the switch, power
from generators can back feed along power lines and electrocute
anyone coming in contact with them including utility workers making
repairs.
3. Never operate a generator inside your home or any partially
enclosed space. Instead, locate the generator outside away from
doors, windows and vents to prevent carbon monoxide from entering.
4. Never operate the generator in wet conditions or where there is
standing water. Instead, place the generator on a dry surface under
an open canopy like structure.
5. Make sure your generator is properly grounded.
6. Do not overload the generator. Limit the electrical load to no
more than the recommended wattage.
7. Plug equipment directly into the generator or use a heavy duty
outdoor rated extension cord.
8. Turn off all equipment powered by the generator before shutting
the generator down.
9. Always keep children away from portable generators.
Taking these simple precautions can help keep you and your family
safe from generator related hazards. Remember, carbon monoxide is
the silent killer, so if you feel dizzy or weak, get to fresh air
immediately.
Watch "Portable Generator
Safety Virtual Demonstration" on YouTube
As demonstrated, when installing a backup generator for your home,
it is best to hire a professional. They are the ones with the
background and knowledge to ensure installation is competed safely
and correctly.
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