Even though ice storms are infrequent here, there are other weather events that can knock the power out and interfere with your comfort. While you may consider purchasing a portable generator to provide backup power, you do not want the hassle of having to feed it gasoline every few hours. A whole-house generator looks more appealing because this is a permanent fixture that waits patiently for the grid to fail, and it powers your home without any action on your part. While deciding to make this investment is exciting, you may feel nervous about the installation process. Knowing exactly what happens during the setup process can turn a stressful home project into an exciting upgrade that brings peace of mind and ensures optimal comfort for years.
Choosing the Perfect Spot and Preparing the Base
Before you can invite the crew to your home to perform the installation, you must first choose the location where the generator will sit. You need to make sure it is a decent distance away from your home to keep exhaust fumes out and allow for adequate air circulation. If you are unsure of an optimal spot, the crew can assist.
Once you and the crew settle on a spot that is best, they will dig a shallow hole to lay down a concrete slab or install a gravel pad. This foundation is critical because these generators weigh several hundred pounds, and the last thing you want is for your equipment to sink into the ground during heavy rains.
The Plumbing and Electrical Connection
Once the crew bolts the machine to its base, the real work begins. A plumber will install a gas line that will run from your generator to your gas meter or a propane tank. At the same time, an electrician will also install a transfer switch near your main electrical panel. This component is critical because it makes certain that your house only draws power from your generator when the power lines are dead. This prevents dangerous back-feeding, which could accidentally harm utility workers while they work on the lines down the street.
The Final Test and Local Inspections
Once the installation is complete, the crew will simulate a power outage to test that your setup works correctly. You will hear the generator roar to life and see lights flickering as the transfer switch does its job to power your home. Most towns require a final check from a building inspector to verify that the gas pressure is correct, and the electrical grounding meets safety codes. The entire project may take a few days to complete, especially if the weather is not the best or the permit office has a backlog.
Once the inspector gives the thumbs up, you can sleep soundly because you can have the confidence that your home is ready for whatever the clouds decide to drop on your neighborhood. To schedule a whole-house generator installation for your Athens, GA home, contact the crew at Jordan Air.
