For homeowners in Western Pennsylvania, a reliable power source is more than a convenience—it's a necessity. Severe weather, from summer thunderstorms to winter ice storms, can lead to unexpected power outages. A standby generator ensures your lights stay on, your refrigerator keeps running, and your home remains safe. This guide walks through the key considerations for installing a generator at your Pittsburgh-area home.
Sizing Your Generator: Powering What Matters Most
The most critical first step is determining the right size generator for your needs. An undersized unit won't be able to power your essential appliances, while an oversized one is inefficient and costly. A qualified electrician will perform a detailed load calculation to assess your home's specific power requirements. This involves tallying the wattage of all the circuits and appliances you intend to back up.
Common items to consider for your generator's load include:
- Heating and cooling systems (furnace, central air)
- Sump pump
- Refrigerator and freezer
- Key lighting circuits
- Medical equipment
- Home office electronics (computer, internet modem)
Fuel Type: Natural Gas, Propane, or Diesel?
Your generator needs a reliable fuel source. For many homes in neighborhoods like Squirrel Hill or Mt. Lebanon with existing gas lines, natural gas is the most convenient and cost-effective option, providing a virtually unlimited runtime. If natural gas isn't available, liquid propane (LP) is a common alternative, stored in a large tank on your property. Diesel is another option, though it's more common for commercial applications and requires a large, stable fuel supply.
Placement, Permits, and Safety Regulations
Proper placement is crucial for safety and compliance. The National Electrical Code (NEC) dictates that generators must be installed outdoors and a specific distance away from windows, doors, and air intakes to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the home. In Allegheny County, a licensed electrician must pull the necessary electrical permits to ensure the installation is up to code. They will also coordinate with Duquesne Light to ensure a safe connection to your home's electrical system.
Key placement and safety rules include:
- Must be on a stable, level surface (often a concrete pad).
- At least 5 feet away from any window, door, or air vent.
- Clearance of at least 3 feet on all sides for maintenance.
- Compliance with local noise ordinances in your municipality.
Safety Warning: Never attempt to install a generator yourself or use extension cords to connect it directly to your home. This practice, known as backfeeding, is extremely dangerous and can cause fatal electrocution to utility workers.
The Role of the Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
The automatic transfer switch (ATS) is the brain of your standby generator system. This device constantly monitors the power coming from Duquesne Light. When it detects an outage, it automatically disconnects your home from the utility grid and signals the generator to start, seamlessly transferring your home to backup power. When utility power is restored, the ATS reverses the process. This ensures a safe, hands-free transition and is required by code for all standby generator installations.
