2020 Fall Home Improvement

Page 20 2020 FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT Lincoln Daily News September 24, 2020 n 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. n Failing to comply with local ordinances including but not limited to homeowner’s association and covenant agreements regarding sound restrictions. n 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 Continued n