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Site Selection and Preparation
Fire Codes, Standards, and Guidelines
Generator set installation must comply strictly with ICC
IFGC, NFPA 37, NFPA 54, NFPA 58, and NFPA 70 stan-
dards. These standards prescribe the minimum safe
clearances around and above the generator set enclo-
sure.
NFPA 37
NFPA 37 is the The National Fire Protection Associa-
tion's standard for the installation and use of stationary
combustion engines. Its requirements limit the spacing of
an enclosed generator set from a structure or wall, and
require generator to be located where it is readily acces-
sible for maintenance, repair, and first responders.
Figure 3-3. Southwest Research Institute Marking
NOTE: The Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is a
nationally recognized third party testing and listing
agency. SwRI testing approves 457 mm (18 in) installa-
tion minimum from rear panel of the generator set to an
adjacent structure for fire protection.
The criteria was to determine the worst case fire scenario
within the generator set and to determine ignitability of
items outside engine enclosure at various distances. The
enclosure is constructed of non-combustible materials,
and the results and conclusions from the independent
testing lab indicated that any fire within the generator set
enclosure would not pose any ignition risk to nearby com-
bustibles or structures, with or without fire service per-
sonnel response.
Based on this testing and the requirements of NFPA 37,
Sec 4.1.4, the guidelines for installation of the generator
sets listed above are changed to 457 mm (18 in) from the
back side of the generator set to a stationary wall or
building. This offset reduction does not apply to clear-
ances from openings in the structure. For adequate
maintenance and airflow clearance, the area above the
generator set should be at least 1.52 m (5 ft) with a mini-
mum of 0.91 m (3 ft) at the front and ends of the enclo-
sure. This includes trees, shrubs, and bushes. Vegetation
not in compliance with these clearance parameters could
obstruct air flow. In addition, exhaust fumes from the gen-
erator set could inhibit plant growth. See
the accompanying descriptions.
18
Generator Set Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for minimizing exhaust
emissions and reducing the risk of fire or equipment fail-
ure. For example:
•
•
IMPORTANT NOTE: See Maintenance section of
generator set owner's manual to view a table of
scheduled maintenance tasks and procedures. Per-
form all maintenance tasks as directed.
Fresh Air for Ventilation and Cooling
Install the unit where air inlet and outlet openings will not
become obstructed by leaves, grass, snow, etc. If prevail-
ing winds will cause blowing or drifting, consider using a
windbreak at a safe distance to protect the unit.
Water Ingress Avoidance
•
002158
•
•
Proximity to Utilities
•
•
•
Verify Wi-Fi Range
See Wi-Fi manual shipped with unit if planning to use the
Wi-Fi feature.
Figure 3-2
and
Installation Guidelines For 50 Hz Air-Cooled Generator Sets
A dirty air filter or low engine oil level may cause
the engine to overheat.
Incorrect spark plug gaps may cause engine
backfiring and incomplete combustion.
Choose a location on high ground where water
levels will not rise and flood the generator set. This
unit should not operate in, or be subjected to,
standing water.
Install the unit where rain gutter downspouts, roof
run-off, landscape irrigation, water sprinklers, or
sump pump discharge does not flood the unit or
spray the enclosure, including any air inlet or outlet
openings.
Excess moisture can cause excess corrosion and
decrease the life expectancy of the unit.
Install the unit where services will not be affected
or obstructed, including concealed, underground,
or covered services such as electrical, fuel, phone,
air conditioning, or irrigation. This could affect
warranty coverage.
Remember that laws and or codes may regulate
the distance and location of the unit to specific
utilities.
It is recommended to pick a location such that the
generator set is as close as possible to the transfer
switch and the fuel supply, while verifying the site
location conforms to the rest of the Site Selection
section.
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