Backup Power Generator Installation Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Do you frequently experience power outages or blackouts in your area? Is your life or business disrupted seriously when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly? If so, it’s a good choice to install a backup power generator. Generators can supply power in the event of a power cut and offer you peace of mind. However, selecting and installing a generator is not a simple task. Here’s a guide on what you need to know before purchasing and installing a generator.    

What is a backup power generator?

A backup power generator is also called a standby generator. It provides a source of power to business operations and homes when the electricity goes out. These generators are usually stationary and can operate automatically within seconds when the utility power supply is interrupted. When power to the main grid is restored, the generators shut themselves off. They serve as a backup power solution and are only used during emergency situations, such as power outages due to extreme weather or natural disasters. Backup generators are typically powered by diesel, propane or natural gas and can provide power for days during extended power outages.

How much does it cost to have a backup power generator?

The cost of a backup generator is affected by many factors. Unlike portable generators, standby generators need to be installed permanently. In addition to the base prices of backup generators, the installation costs, electrical and fuel source hookup costs, fuel costs and maintenance costs should also be counted in. To know the base price of the generator, you need to figure out what size generator you need. Generally, a 20 kW rating is quite common for a whole-house generator designed to power your entire house and the average cost ranges from $5,000 to $18,000. The price depends on your home size, generator size and the devices you want to power. Please be noted that generator brand also affects the costs, you can compare different types of generators before you make a decision. The installation costs vary greatly depending on the placement of the generator, the amount of materials required and the type of fuel you choose for your generator.

Things you need to consider before installing your generator

When it comes to buying a backup generator, you should keep a few things in mind when preparing your house or business for a generator.

Determine what size generator you need

It’s important to choose the right size generator. The more you want to power during a power outage, the bigger the generator you will need, and the more it will cost for the machine itself as well as the installation. If you only want to run some necessary appliances such as a few lights and your refrigerator, a small generator in the 7-10 kW range can meet your power requirements. If you would like to power air conditioning units and other equipment, a 20~24kw generator is relatively suitable for your needs. To calculate how much power you need, add up the starting watts for the highest starting watt device and the total running watts of all the devices you need to power during power disruption.

Choose the right fuel

The type of fuel you choose will also affect the cost of running your generator. The four most common fuel sources used for backup power generators are diesel, natural gas and propane and gasoline. Some generators can operate on two fuel types, such as diesel and natural gas. These types of fuels vary in price, availability, and storage requirements based on geographical location. Each fuel type of generators has its advantages and disadvantages, you need to consider the information below to choose the right fuel to meet your backup power needs.   

Diesel 

Diesel is the least flammable and the most energy-packed fuel. Diesel generators have a reputation of high efficiency, reliability, longevity and low maintenance. They are the most suitable for long-term use. If you don’t have access to natural gas or convenient propane delivery in small towns or remote areas, diesel fuel is the best alternative. The downside of diesel is that it has a limited shelf life of 12 months on average and is less effective in cold temperatures.

Natural gas

Natural gas can be distributed to backup power generators through a local utility grid and you don't need to refuel manually when your home or business is connected to this grid. If you live in an area that has a pipeline for natural gas, this fuel type would be your best choice. The downside is that natural gas produces less energy than other options.

Propane

Propane, also called Liquified Petroleum Gas (LP gas), is a clean-burning fuel with an unlimited shelf life. The storage and delivery of propane are convenient, but it carries less energy than either diesel or gasoline. Propane generators are commonly used to supply power to any necessary appliances at home during a power outage.

Gasoline

Gasoline is the easiest fuel source to obtain and most commonly used by individuals with residential backup generators. However, this fuel has a relatively short shelf life of one year or less and is highly flammable. On the energy scale, it offers less energy than diesel. Thus, gasoline is a poor choice for standby generators. Gasoline generators are almost exclusively made for portable generators and RV markets.

Consider local related requirements

Before installing a generator, you need to consider the local city permits, such as local building requirements, local air quality requirements and transfer switch requirements, etc. Checking with your local city offices to learn more about fees and choose the type of system and energy source that is right for your home or business. Usually, a generator installer will obtain the permits for you.

Find the proper installation location

It’s important to choose a perfect place to install your generator. Generally, generators should be installed outdoor, because they emit carbon monoxide and other pollutants that might be hazardous to human health. If you have neighbors, make sure the noise and exhaust produced by your generator won’t affect them. Typically, the generator must be 5 feet (60 inches) from any window or door, 1.5 feet (18 inches) from the house and 3 feet (36 inches) in front of the generator for servicing room. The closer the placement is to a natural gas line and the electric meter, the more you will save on installation costs. Theoretically, installing the generator between the electric meter and the gas meter is the most ideal option. However, the location of the generator is affected by a variety of factors, it’s highly recommended that you hire a professional to do the job if you don’t have enough relevant electrical knowledge and skills.

Steps for backup power generator installation

It’s worth noting that backup power generators must be placed on a leveled gravel or concrete surface, which should be set up before installation. Therefore, you should pour a concrete pad or prepare the site with a pea gravel where the generator can sit if necessary.  

When the generator is set on its decided location, secure the generator to the concrete pad. Then connect the fuel line and install the transfer switch next to the main breaker box. Transfer switches sense when the power goes out to switch the power source to the generator automatically. Once the transfer switch is installed, the electrician will connect the electric and check that everything works as it should. The generator is set up weekly self-test to ensure its reliable operation when needed.

Read also: Installation method of diesel generator set

Contact Dingbo Power about a backup generator for your home or business

Dingbo Power is a professional manufacturer of diesel generators and we are one of the leading power generation one-stop solution providers in China. We offer customers a variety range of high-quality generators for reliable residential or business standby power.

Not sure which backup power generator is suitable for you? Contact us today and we will gladly give you advice and tips to choose the best generator to protect your home or business.