An emergency generator can provide important peace of mind: even short power outages can create dangerous situations or cost your business significant amounts of money. Emergency generators are used to offset the harmful effects of power outages: they’re installed permanently as an emergency power source.

Emergency generators are hardwired into your building’s electrical system, and usually get fuel from city gas or propane lines. Dealers will usually visit your location to determine what size and type of generator you need, and in most cases the dealers offer delivery, installation, and maintenance services.

Because emergency generators are connected directly to your building’s wiring, proper installation is critical. Shoddy installation work can cause the generator to fail or overheat, as well as damage your existing wiring and equipment.

You’ll need a plumber to connect the gas or propane line, if applicable. You’ll also need a hard, level surface, typically a poured concrete pad. Finally, if you rent space, make sure your landlord approves your plans for installing an emergency generator.

Connecting emergency generators
To connect an emergency generator to your existing electrical system, you’ll need a separate device called an automatic transfer switch. The transfer switch is a safety system that prevents your generator from feeding electricity back to the neighborhood power grid. When the power goes out, the transfer switch will connect the generator to your electrical system, and when power comes on again, it 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.