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Install the generator set, in its protective enclosure, outdoors, where adequate cooling and ventilating air is always available (Figure 1.9). Consider
these factors:
• The installation of the generator must comply strictly with NFPA 37, NFPA 54, NFPA 58 and NFPA 70 standards.
• Install the unit where air inlet and outlet openings will not become obstructed by leaves, grass, snow, etc. If prevailing winds will cause blowing or
drifting, consider using a windbreak to protect the unit.
• Install the generator on high ground where water levels will not rise and endanger it. It should not operate in or be subjected to standing water.
• Allow suffi cient room on all sides of the generator for maintenance and servicing. This unit must be installed in accordance with any codes that are
in place in your country or local jurisdiction for minimum distances from other structures. DO NOT install under wooden decks or structures unless
there is at least 1.52 m (5 ft) of clearance above the generator, .91m (3 ft) of clearance on sides and front, and a minimum of 457 mm (18 in) of
clearance at the back of the unit.
• Install the unit where rain gutter down spouts, roof run-off, landscape irrigation, water sprinklers or sump pump discharge does not fl ood the unit or
spray the enclosure, including any air inlet or outlet openings.
• Install the unit where services will not be affected or obstructed, including concealed, underground or covered services such as electrical, fuel,
phone, air conditioning or irrigation. This could affect Warranty Coverage.
• Where strong prevailing winds blow from one direction, face the generator air inlet openings to the prevailing winds.
• Install the generator as close as possible to the fuel supply to reduce the length of piping. REMEMBER THAT LAWS OR CODES MAY
REGULATE THE DISTANCE AND LOCATION. In the absence of local codes regarding placement or clearance, we recommend following these
guidelines.
• Install the generator as close as possible to the transfer switch. REMEMBER THAT LAWS OR CODES MAY REGULATE THE DISTANCE AND
LOCATION.
• The generator must be installed on a level surface. The generator must be level within a 13 mm (0.5 in) all around.
• The generator is typically placed on pea gravel, crushed stone or a concrete pad. Check local codes to see what type is required. If a concrete
pad is required, all applicable codes should be followed.
3.1.1 INSTALLATION GUIDELINES FOR STATIONARY AIR-COOLED 8, 10 & 13KVA GENERATORS
The National Fire Protection Association has a standard for the installation and use of stationary combustion engines. That standard is NFPA 37, its
requirements limit the spacing of an enclosed generator set from a structure or wall (Figure 1.10).
NFPA 37, Section 4.1.4, Engines Located Outdoors: Engines, and their weatherproof housings if provided, that are installed outdoors shall be
located at least 1.52 m (5 ft) from openings in walls and at least 1.52 m (5 ft) from structures having combustible walls. A minimum separation shall
not be required where the following conditions exist:
1. The adjacent wall of the structure has a fi re resistance rating of at least 1 hour.
2. The weatherproof enclosure is constructed of noncombustible materials and it has been demonstrated that a fi re within the enclosure will not
ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure.
Annex A — Explanatory Material
A4.1.4 (2) Means of demonstrating compliance are by means of full scale fi re test or by calculation procedures.
Because of the limited spaces that are frequently available for installation, it has become apparent that exception (2) would be benefi cial for many
residential and commercial installations. With that in mind, the manufacturer contracted with an independent testing laboratory to run full scale fi re
tests to assure that the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure.
NOTE: Southwest Research Institute testing approves 457 mm (18 in) installation minimum from structure. Southwest Research is a
nationally recognized third party testing and listing agency.
The criteria was to determine the worst case fi re scenario within the generator and to determine the ignitability of items outside the engine enclosure
at various distances. The enclosure is constructed of non-combustible materials, and the results and conclusions from the independent testing lab
indicated that any fi re within the generator enclosure would not pose any ignition risk to nearby combustibles or structures, with or without fi re service
personnel response.
