Generator Clearances

[frogneck77]

Is anyone aware of any publications that list required clearances for generator installations. I have rules of thumb that I generally follow but have yet to find anything in writing other than "recommendations" in the manufacturers installation guides. The local inspectors refer to these and havent given me any published codes to backthis up. The installation instructions say 12" around the unit for ventilation, NEC required working clearance, and 10' from the fuel source (LP Tank), but nothing about clearances from windows, condensing units, combustibles, etc.
Any help would be appreciated.
Bill

 

[LarryFine]

I went through similar issues on the last couple of generators I installed, except in reference to distance bwteeen the unit and the wall. The units have no rear louvers, and the customers wanted them tight to the wall for appearance's sake.

The instructions say to refer to local codes, and the electrical inspector said to refer to the instructions. :roll: So, he passed them with no problem. Then the plumbing/mechanical inspector entered the scene and promply cried foul.

Naturally, I stood firm. After hashing back and forth about the instructiosn vs. code debacle, he passed it with no real legal reason (excuse) not to.

 

[360Youth]

We go 18-24" from the wall. Our units do have a rear and side exhaust discharge. I think the manu. recommends 24." We try and stay away from bedroom/bedroom windows for noise sake. Another caution is any sort of vent, crawl space access near exhaust. We had to move a unit one time because there was a bath vent about 15' straight up from our unit and the home owner complained about fume odor.

 

[dezwitinc]

Clearances

Clearances

Most places in the State of Florida require a minimum of 10' from the exhaust end to any operable window, door that leads to the interior, range hood exhaust, bath exhaust, soffit vent, etc.
As far as side clearance, you will need minimum working depth from live parts to grounded surfaces per 110.26(A)(1) (including bushes around here) and whatever the manufacturer recommends.
We recently got a letter from a manufacturer that stated their minimum was only a recommendation. This satisfied the inspector, allowing us to move the generator closer to the house.
Just remember, someone has to service the unit.
Gas generally needs to be 5'-10' from an ignition source such as a motor, pool heater, etc.
Watch out for zero lot lines. In PBC, you are not allowed to mount any equipment on the zero side which can make an installation tricky and costly when the meter is on that side of the house.
The best thing to do is visit the municipality in which you are working and see if they have a generator installation checklist that you can follow.
We have municipalities that limit how high above grade the generator can stand in residential applications. This leads to partial coverage or no generator at all.
Also read:NFPA 37: Standard for the Installation and Use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines