Installing A Backup Generator

We are now all feeling and seeing the effects of climate change ourselves. Extreme weather events are increasingly common and all of them; wildfires, floods, strong winds and hurricanes or snowstorms are known causes of power outages. Elsewhere in the world, such as in the US, it is common practice for homes and businesses to have backup generators installed in preparation for extreme weather events. To keep our homes and businesses running whatever the weather throws at us, it is time that we did the same here in the UK and the rest of Europe. With this in mind, this is a brief guide on how to install a backup generator which we hope to answer all the questions you might have, such as: How much does it cost to install a backup generator? How to install a backup generator at home? How to install a natural gas backup generator? How to install a backup generator transfer switch? What is a backup generator? We’ll start with the latter first to get you up to speed. What Is A Backup Generator? A backup generator is simply an alternate source of electrical power for when the mains power, for whatever reason, fails. You can get home backup generators as well as workplace backup generators which when installed properly will provide uninterrupted power. What To Consider When Getting A Backup Generator Placement/Location of a Backup Generator The placement of your generator needs careful consideration. If it can go outside, that is ideal. However, it will need protection from the elements to a certain degree and if you are in an area liable to flooding, it will need to be off the floor. Even if it is outside, you will still need to ensure it is a good distance (around 1.5 metres) away from windows and doors. Ventilation Requirements for a Generator You must ensure your generator is either outside or has adequate ventilation. Otherwise, carbon monoxide poisoning is a real, and fatal, possibility. Even if it is outside, you will still need to ensure it is a good distance (around 1.5 metres) away from windows and doors. Cost of a Backup Generator The cost of a backup generator is dependent on the type and size required. It is possible to get a residential backup generator or one for a small office or workplace for under £1000, but some of the biggest commercial generators are upwards of £10,000. The cost of installation for a backup generator will usually cost the same whatever the size, as the time it takes your installation professional will be roughly the same. You can expect to pay around £1000. Choice of Fuel Fuel options for generators include petrol, diesel, natural gas and propane. There are pros and cons for each type of fuel, so at Generator Pro, we are happy to advise you based on your individual circumstances and requirements. Installing The Generator As your backup generator will need to be connected to the mains supply via a transfer switch, it is essential that your generator is installed by a qualified, licensed and insured professional. Our experts at Generator Pro will install your generator correctly, safely and in a timely fashion. On top of that, we give you a 1-year warranty on labour for total peace of mind. The installation process can be broken down into 5 stages. The generator switch is installed by a certified electrician. The generator is placed correctly and securely. The generator is connected to the transfer switch. Pipefitters connect the generator to the fuel source. The generator is tested and ready to go. Further Advice On Purchasing A Backup Generator If you would like to talk to one of our generator experts, then get in touch and one of our friendly team members will help guide you through the process. Alternatively, you can browse our online store to find a backup generator that suits your needs.