Whole House Generator Installation Guide

Installing a whole house generator is a complex yet rewarding project that results in automatic backup power and peace of mind. This comprehensive guide, based on our experts' knowledge and specialized blend of selection and expertise, walks you through the entire process, from preparing your property to the final hookups.

Planning Your Standby Generator Installation

The success of your installation hinges on meticulous planning, from managing timelines to choosing the best location.

Setting Installation Expectations

Installing a standby generator is not a weekend DIY project; it can take weeks or months from the time you order to the moment it’s installed. You need to be flexible and realistic in your planning, as the timeline is subject to generator availability, installer schedules, and the permitting process in your municipality.

Obtaining Quotes and Selecting an Installer

To find the best price, compare 3-5 installation quotes. When choosing an installer, ensure they are professionally trained to guarantee easy permitting, successful warranty registration, and total confidence in the job.

Obtaining a Permit

Most municipalities require you to obtain a permit before you can install a standby generator. Electrical permits are almost always required because the majority of the work is electrical.

• The Assurance: A permit ensures a licensed contractor performs a qualified installation. The job is then inspected by a village inspector, confirming the work was done correctly.
• The Process: Your professional installer will take care of obtaining the permit. It usually takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your municipality.
• Cost: Permits generally have a small fee that becomes part of your total installation cost.

Mapping Out Your Installation Location

The placement of your generator must adhere to local village ordinances and fire codes. When locating your generator, safety comes first.

• Safety Requirements: Never install a generator inside, beneath an overhang, in a breezeway, or in an area that collects snow drifts. Install the unit at least five feet from any windows, doorways, or soffit vents to prevent a carbon monoxide threat. Remember to check your local code for exact requirements.
• Optimal Placement: Ideally, installation should be done near the electric and gas meter. This proximity reduces material and installation costs and provides a more consistent fuel supply.
• Final Authority: The local building code authority will have the final say on where and how your generator is installed.

Preparing the Foundation Surface

Once you’ve marked the safe location, you must prepare the surface for stability.

• Small Air-Cooled Units: Small air-cooled standby generators are equipped with a composite base, so pouring a concrete pad is not required.
• Minimum Requirements: The surface should be flattened and then raised by at least four bags of level pea gravel.
• Optional Security: For added leveling and security, place a GenPad between the pea gravel and your generator.

Generator Delivery and Placement

Your Ferguson Home partner can guide you through the logistics of receiving and setting up your unit.

Delivery Expectations

• Unloading: Getting a generator off the back of a semi-truck is difficult. Be sure to order lift gate service so the driver can safely lower the unit to the ground.
• Inspection: Inspect the package for any damage before signing the delivery receipt.
• Curbside Only: Delivery is typically curbside only, with the semi-truck remaining on the street.

Moving and Setting the Generator

• Moving: Consult with your installer to determine the best method for moving the unit to the prepared pad.
• Final Generator Placement: The installer will handle the final placement of the unit onto the prepared surface using equipment like nylon straps, a forklift, or a crane.

Electrical and Fuel Connections

This is the technical phase where the generator is integrated with your home’s essential systems.

Installing the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)

The automatic transfer switch is the intelligence  that monitors utility power.

• Function: When the power fails, the ATS communicates with the generator to turn on and then safely transfers the power supply to specific circuits in your home.
• Location: The ATS can be installed in your basement next to the service panel or outside by your electric meter.

Grounding the Unit

A grounding rod is a non-negotiable safety step to protect your home and generator components.

• Purpose: A large metal rod is driven into the ground and wired to your generator to give any surges of electricity, like lightning, a safe path into the earth, rather than through your generator’s sensitive components.

Connecting Fuel and Electricity

• Electrical Connection: Your installer will connect the generator to the ATS, typically using a feeder pipe that runs from the transfer switch to the generator.
• Fuel Connection: The generator is often the largest single appliance in the house and requires a dedicated fuel feed.
• Gas Meter Sizing: Your gas utility must size the gas meter to ensure it is large enough to operate the generator and all other appliances in your home.
• Fuel Line: The generator connects to your natural gas line or propane source. Your installer may subcontract a licensed plumber to complete this step.

Ferguson Home is the partner who can assist you at every stage of the process. By planning ahead and understanding these steps, you will successfully navigate the installation and achieve reliable whole-house power.