Where Should I Install a Whole-House Generator?

Imagine being in the middle of a winter storm, and the worst happens: You lose power. Now, you have to worry about the house getting cold, the pipes freezing and numerous other potential issues.

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Fortunately, you can avoid this scenario by installing a whole-house generator. These generators kick in if you lose power to ensure your utilities continue to work. This protects your family and your home. Whole-house generators are installed outside the home, but there are specific things you need to consider when determining the exact location.

Where's the Best Place to Install a Whole-House Generator on Your House?

Whole-house generators are usually installed on the side or back of the house. However, there are often specific regulations that govern this, depending on where you live. Most of the regulations related to where to install a whole-house generator fall into one of three categories.

Safety

Naturally, the most important concern when installing a home generator is safety, including protecting against carbon monoxide poisoning. If the generator's toxic fumes enter your home, it could be extremely dangerous or even deadly for you and your family.

To prevent this issue, many local and manufacturer codes regulate how close your home backup generator can be placed to the house. In many jurisdictions, homeowners must install a whole-house generator a certain distance away from their home or any outbuildings, such as sheds and garages. Regulations also require homeowners to keep the unit away from any windows, doors and soft vents. To ensure proper airflow, you can't place a whole-house generator under an overhang or in a breezeway or carport.

Additionally, you must install your generator with the exhaust vents facing away from the home. Some generators place these vents on the top of the unit, so this isn't a concern. However, if the vents are on the side, be sure the unit is installed correctly.

Another major safety concern is fire. Placing the whole-house generator a safe distance away from any buildings should take care of this as well. It’s also important to keep any vegetation away from the generator to avoid the chance of it catching fire.

Stability

The stability of your unit is also a concern when installing a whole-house generator. Ideally, you want to place it on flat land. However, depending on your specific situation, this may not be possible. In these cases, you can install a concrete slab to place your generator on. This slab must be in place before you can install your unit. Because generators can be quite noisy, you may also want to use a vibration-absorbing pad. This pad can go on the concrete slab and under your unit to help reduce noise.

Additionally, you shouldn’t install your unit in a flood-prone area. Frequent flooding can destabilize the ground under the unit. More importantly, if floodwater gets into your generator, it could damage your unit and make it nonoperational.

Performance

Peak performance requires regular maintenance, inspections and repairs. To ensure this happens, it’s vital that there’s enough room for you or a maintenance worker to walk around your generator and make repairs as needed.

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Home Backup Generator Installation Considerations

Before installing a whole-house generator, selecting the right location is important. First, you must consider any governmental regulations in your area, including federal, state and local codes. Secondly, you should consider any manufacturer recommendations related to your unit. Finally, if you live in an HOA community, you may have other rules and regulations you must follow. Most of these rules help protect your family and home and ensure your generator works properly.

Additionally, many cities require homeowners to obtain a permit before installing a backup generator. Be sure to check with your contractors to determine who'll handle these requirements.