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Connecting the Generator

Connecting the Generator

Connecting the Generator to Your Home

Now that the generator is set, it’s time to connect to the fuel source. Your generator needs a fuel source, similar to your car or lawn mower. Generac generators can be fueled by liquid propane or natural gas. With either fuel source, a gas line will be laid underground that will connect from the liquid propane tank or natural gas meter to the generator. If the generator is a significant distance from the fuel source, additional trenching may be needed to ensure the gas line reaches the generator.
 

Take a Closer Look...

As your installer connects the gas line, you may notice these important connectors being used. Flex Fuel Lines, polypipe and flex risers, and shut-off valves are recommended to create a cost-effective and efficient connection. Shut-off valves are also required at the generator to provide an external fuel shut off for safety purposes. Some municipalities require a 24-hour leak test, which means starting the generator will have to wait until after the test is completed.


Next Steps

 

With the generator connected to a fuel source, it’s now time to connect it to your main electrical panel. Continue scrolling to the next section to learn about electrical connections.

Electrical Connections

 

Next, let’s electrically connect the generator to your home. The generator will need to be connected to the Automatic Transfer Switch, which will be connected to the main electrical panel for your home. Depending on local codes, the Automatic Transfer Switch may be placed inside or outside the home.


This step is essential as the electrical connections are what trigger the generator to turn on for backup power. The Automatic Transfer Switch receives a signal from the main electrical panel that utility has dropped. When this happens, the Automatic Transfer Switch then sends a signal to the generator to turn on for backup power. When utility returns, a new signal will be sent to the Automatic Transfer Switch, which will then tell the generator it can shut down since it is no longer needed for backup power.

 

Take a Closer Look...

The installer will use materials such as conductor cable, car flex, and service entrance cable. They will run the cables from the connection shelf on the generator to the automatic transfer switch. For whole home backup power, wiring may need to be replaced between the main electrical panel and the meter. Check with your installer to see if this will be necessary during your installation.

The generator is now connected to your home. It’s time to take it for a test run and simulate a power outage. Move along with the installer by clicking the arrow below or above.