There are some essential steps to install a natural gas or propane generator at your residence. It’s important to install your standby generator properly so you avoid damaging your home’s electrical system or the connection to public utilities.
Steps for Installing a Standby Generator Safely
Select a Qualified Dealer-Installer of Standby Generators
You first need to select a trusted and certified standby generator dealer-installer based on a competitive quote, and visit your home and identify a suitable location for the generator. They will take into account your preferences, budget, and code requirements.
Obtain Permits and Schedule Your Generator Installation
At this point, it’s important that you and your dealer obtain the proper electrical, plumbing, building, site survey, and homeowner association (HOA) permits to install the generator. Once your dealer obtains the permits necessary, their installation team can connect the natural gas or propane line and complete the installation of the generator and the automatic transfer switch (ATS). They will test the generator to ensure it functions properly.
Conduct Your Final Inspection
It’s likely that your municipality will conduct a final site inspection after installation to make sure your generator functions according to code. If your municipality’s regulatory body approves the installation, they will send paperwork to your utility company to finalize the installation process. When your utility company receives the proper permits and paperwork, they will provide you with your gas meter upgrade to complete the process, for which you may have to pay a fee.
