Installing standby generators

For businesses that purchase standby generators, dealers usually come out and evaluate what it will take to install the system. Depending on your location, some dealers may offer delivery, installation, and maintenance services directly. If they don't, they'll certainly be able to put you in touch with qualified electricians and plumbers to help install your system.

What to include
Before choosing a standby generator, you'll need to decide what equipment you want it to run. Some of the most common choices are refrigerators, freezers, security and access control systems, sump pumps, essential lights, electric gates or overhead doors, ejector pumps, well pumps, and septic systems.

Keep in mind that every electronic device you add to the list will increase the wattage you need - and drive up your costs. While a single light bulb will only add 70 watts to your needs, a mid-sized central air conditioner can draw 4000 watts or more. Limit your choices to those devices that are truly essential during a power outage and you'll keep your total costs down.

Getting standby generators installed
Because standby generators are wired into your business's electric system, proper installation is critical. Shoddy installation work can cause the generator to fail or overheat, as well as damage your existing wiring and equipment.

The location of your existing electric service panel and gas line is important. The generator will sit outside but near your building, much like a central air conditioner, and for ease of installation, it's best if it can be positioned near the electric panel.

The generator will need to be installed on a level surface - most commonly, a concrete pad but occasionally hard rubber. Some dealers cover "everything" in their installation charge, including pouring a concrete pad - others won't. Get to know exactly what the installation of your generator will involve before committing to a purchase.

You'll need a plumber to connect the gas or propane line, if applicable. Standby generators can be sensitive to both fuel pressure and volume, so high-quality connections are important. Finally, if you rent space, make sure your landlord approves your plans for installing a generator.

Electrical connections
To connect a standby generator to your existing electrical system, you'll need a separate device called an automatic transfer switch. The transfer switch is an essential a safety system that prevents your generator from feeding electricity back to the neighborhood power grid. When the power goes out, the generator will start up automatically, and after a few seconds to let it stabilize, the transfer switch will connect the generator to your office. When power comes on again, the switch will disconnect the generator and return your setup to normal.

Do not attempt to install a transfer switch yourself. Installation of transfer switches may require local permits - but it always requires a professional electrician. The model of transfer switch will depend mainly on the size of your generator. In very high-priority situations such as hospitals, higher-end transfer switches can be worth the extra cost.

In addition to the generator and transfer switch, you may want to invest in a dedicated electrical sub-panel, as well. Only your essential equipment is connected to the sub-panel, which is connected to the generator. That way, when power fails, your critical devices will get the emergency power without the risk of overworking your generator or having to turn off or unplug other equipment. Setting up an electrical sub panel may be included in an installation charge, or may carry a separate fee.