Generator Location; Generator Mounting And Support - Generac Power Systems Stationary Emergency Generator Installation Manual

1.3

GENERATOR LOCATION

Install the generator set, in its protective enclosure outdoors,
where adequate cooling and ventilating air always is available.
Consider these factors:
• Install the unit where air inlet and outlet openings will not
become obstructed by leaves, grass, snow, etc. If prevailing
winds will cause blowing or drifting, consider using a wind-
break to protect the unit.
• Install the generator on high ground where water levels will not
rise and endanger it.
• This genset must be installed on a level surface. The base frame
must be level within 1/2 inch all around.
• Allow sufficient room on all sides of the generator for mainte-
nance and servicing. This unit must be installed in accordance
with current applicable NFPA 37 and NFPA 70 standards, as
well as any other federal, state and local codes for minimum
distances from other structures.
• Where strong prevailing winds blow from one direction, face the
generator air inlet openings into the prevailing winds.
• Install the generator as close as possible to the transfer switch.
This reduces the length of wiring and conduit.
• Install the generator as close as possible to the fuel supply,
to reduce the length of piping. HOWEVER, REMEMBER THAT
LAWS OR CODES MAY REGULATE THE DISTANCE.
1.4 GENERATOR MOUNTING AND
SUPPORT
When designing a concrete base slab, all federal, state and local
codes should be followed. Special attention should be given to the
concrete base slab which should exceed the length and width of
the generator by a minimum of 6 inches on all sides.
The mounting pad should be located as close as possible to the
transfer switch and fuel supply. Make sure you leave adequate
room around the generator for service access. Five feet is a good
rule of thumb, but local codes vary.
Place the pad high enough to keep rising water from reaching the
generator. Make sure the generator will have adequate and unob-
structed airflow by choosing an open space free of trees, shrubs,
buildings or other obstructions (Figure 1.1).
Figure 1.1 — Mounting Pad
The unit must be positioned so air vents won't become clogged
with leaves, grass, snow or debris. Make sure that exhaust fumes
will not enter the building through eaves, windows, ventilation fans
or other air intakes. Never mount the unit under eaves, under a
deck or within three (3) feet of a window.
Position the electrical conduit for power wiring, control wiring and
the battery charger circuit so the generator can be placed correctly
on the pad (Figure 1.2).
Figure 1.2 — Position Conduit
The concrete pad should be reinforced and deep enough so that
the weight of the pad is equal to the weight of the generator (refer
to the "Generator Mounting and Support" section in this manual).
The length and width of the pad should exceed the length and
width of the generator by at least 6 inches on all sides and the
pad must be level within ½ inch all around. Refer to the installation
diagram supplied with the owner's manual for the correct stub up
area location.
1.4.1 COMBUSTIBLE FLOOR AND ROOF PROTECTION
If the generator must be installed on any combustible floor or roof,
comply with the following rules:
• Place a layer of non-combustible insulation, followed by a layer
of sheet metal beneath the unit's mounting base rails (Figure
1.3).
• Both the layer of insulation and the sheet metal must extend
beyond the generator base to a distance of at least 6 inches
(15.24 cm) on all sides.
For rooftop or building structure mounting, it is recommended
that spring isolators be installed between the engine frame and
the mounting system. A minimum of six (6) isolators are required
and must be located at the front and rear cross members and the
center of the frame.
General Information
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