Generators and NEC

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Energy-Miser

Energy-Miser

Senior Member
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Maryland
Hi,
Is there a requirement to have concrete pads for generators per NEC, and if so what is the maximum size generator that does not require it? We have been putting the smaller ones on crushed stone framed in pressure treated lumber. Thanks for your input, in advance. e/m
 
The NEC doesn't address what type of surface a generator must be mounted on. This would be a manufactures requirement.

Chris
 
the gensets I've been putting in have pads cause its in the details in the manuf. lit. (that's all I know - I didn't see anything in the code)
 
Two places that really matter--Manufacturer's Installation Instructions and Building Code for your municipality.
NEC does not address as others have said.
 
oh yeah, and by the way, in our neck of the woods, if you have a slab >4" thick or a fence they require a bldg. permit
 
nakulak said:
oh yeah, and by the way, in our neck of the woods, if you have a slab >4" thick or a fence they require a bldg. permit
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Yes, some of the posts prompoted me to look up manufacturer requirement for some of the bigger gens, and I noticed that at least one requires concrete slab of between 4" and 6" thick. I see you are from Annapolis. Did you mean Annapolis city requires a buidling permit, or is it true of all of the Anne Arundel County? We do a lot of work in the Anne Arundel County, and some in the city of Annapolis as well. Thanks, e/m
 
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I've not seen a concrete pad required by a gen set manufacturer. Generally they say to provide structural support as required which may include a concrete pad.
Most times, the pad is either for housekeeping or weight load distribution purposes.
 
tshea said:
Two places that really matter--Manufacturer's Installation Instructions and Building Code for your municipality.
NEC does not address as others have said.
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Yes, building code would be a good place for me to look into. In one of the counities around here we had to deal with the WSSC (Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission?). I think it had to do with the gas line for the generator. Any Marylanders here who may have had dealings with these guys in PG county when it comes to generator installation and inspection? e/m.
 
Not sure about city of Annapolis, but we put a 100kva at a dialysis clinic next to the mall (AA county) - the county requires a bldg and elect permit, and also a temporary permit if you need to set the unit up on a temp basis for any reason. If you have any questions at all about your installation the acting chief (Carmen) is a hell of a nice guy and will help with any questions you have.
 
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ron said:
I've not seen a concrete pad required by a gen set manufacturer. Generally they say to provide structural support as required which may include a concrete pad.
Most times, the pad is either for housekeeping or weight load distribution purposes.
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I have seen Generac suggest a concrete pad 4 - 6 inches thick and 12 inches out from each side of the generator, for their liquid cooled line (which is over 18 kw). e/m
 
boboelectric said:
Speaking of Generac generators, is anybody a distributor? How's it working
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I was approached by a Guardian outfit to become a dealer for the guardian brand. The conditions were very easy to meet. You don't get exclusivity in your area. Of course you will have to buy one gen set to get started, and they will train you to service them. I passed up on it. e/m
 
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