Since the frequency of power outages has increased in your location, you decided to buy a standby generator. You calculated the amount of power needed in your home and followed it up with an online search. In the end, you were able to purchase a good standby generator that you’re happy about. And the generator was delivered and installed.
Now, a new challenge comes up. You have heard stories about generator theft, and now you’re worried about how to hide a standby generator. You’re not alone. We have been getting that kind of question from numerous readers, and we have created this article to answer the question.
In the article, you’ll learn some simple tips to help you secure your generator. In addition, we will answer several other frequently asked questions about generator safety. If the topic sounds interesting to you, try to read the article to the end. So, let’s get straight to business.
How To Hide a Standby Generator? 5 Easy Steps
One thing that gives standby generators away is their noise. You can’t run a generator secretly without your neighbors’ knowledge because of their noise. And generator thieves may target your generator. This is why you should apply any of the security tips below.
1. Fencing
You can create a perimeter fence around your house and install a gate that can be locked. Considering the size and weight of a standby generator, it is almost impossible for thieves to carry it over a fence without attracting attention, regardless of what time of the day it is.
Remember, thieves target easy jobs. Rasing a fence will deter them from burgling your home and stealing your generator.
2. Installing security cameras with an alarm system
Burglars dread homes with an alarm system. And when trespassers try to step foot on your property, the alarm will go off on them. The sound will attract your neighbors, who may call the police quickly. Alarm wards criminals off.
3. Landscaping with some dried leaves
You can spread some dried leaves around your generator. This is because of the loud crackling sound dried leaves make when people step on them. So, if there are dried leaves around your generator, when people go near it, you’ll hear the loud crackling sound and quickly find out what’s happening. And when the thieves realize that someone is approaching, they’ll back off immediately.
4. House your generator
It is a good idea to build an enclosure around your generator. You may build a house of steel and install a lock. So, whenever the generator is not in use, it will be under lock and key. If you’re not at home, your generator will be safe.
5. Be careful what you post on social media
If you’re on vacation, don’t post it on social media until when you’re back home. Burglars strike when homeowners are not at home. So, there would be nobody to alert the police. And some of them follow you on social media to monitor your itinerary. They often target homes where the occupants are gone for an extended period. So, whenever you’re not at home, don’t say it on social media.
Where Should I Place My Standby Generator?
It is better to place your generator outside, in your yard but not too close to your house. Remember, the generator must stay on level, solid ground. So, you must first create a concrete pad and allow it to dry before you place the generator on it. In addition, you need to be sure that an underground pipe or cable does not pass under your chosen spot.
This is why you need a generator permit before you install your generator. Take the time to deliberate on the best spot to place your generator. Don’t just place it anywhere.
Can You Cover a Whole House Generator?
Yes, you can cover it. In fact, we recommend that you build an enclosure around your whole house generator. It has several advantages. First, it protects the generator from the rain and harsh weather conditions. Also, building an enclosure around it will secure it from theft. After all, you’ll always lock it up whenever it is not in use.
Another reason to cover your generator is to reduce its noise. The enclosure will absorb some of its noise, making it bearable for you.
How Much Clearance Does a Standby Generator Need?
You need to understand that your generator should not be too close to your windows and doors for two reasons. Generators burn fuel and give out harmful gases including the highly dreaded carbon monoxide. These gases should never get into your house. The closer your generator is to your house, the higher the chances of the gases making their way into your living room.
The second reason is the noise. Standby generators make a lot of noise. And the nearer they are to your house, the louder their noise will be. So, for those reasons, you must place your standby generator at a distance from your house.
It is advised that your generator should be at least 5 feet (60 inches) from your house. In addition, anytime your generator is working, make sure all your doors and windows are shut tightly. It prevents the emitted gases from getting inside your house.
Furthermore, you must also leave a space of at least 3 feet (36 inches) in front of the generator. Most generators are opened from the front. So, there should be enough space in front of the generator in case of servicing and repairs. However, if your yard is big, you can place the generator further away from your house because of its noise.
How Far Does a Standby Generator Have to Be from a Windows?
Based on the safety precautions explained above, your generator should be at least 5 feet (60 inches) away from your windows to reduce the noise and prevent harmful gases from entering your house. In fact, if your house is bigger, you could place the generator further away than the recommended 5 feet. One more thing – don’t forget to shut your windows whenever your generator is working.
Final Words
Here are your takeaways from this article. You can protect your generator from theft by fencing your yard, installing security gadgets around your house, landscaping with dried leaves, and housing your standby generators.
Since it burns fuel and emits harmful gases, your standby generator must be placed outdoors. In fact, it is a good idea to build an enclosure around your generator to protect it from harsh weather conditions and theft. An enclosure also reduces its noise by absorbing some of the noise.
You need to place your generator at least 5 feet away from your doors and windows to reduce the noise and prevent harmful gases from entering your house. Make sure all your doors and windows are tightly shut before you start your generator. You may also get your house fully insulated before installing your generator.
You may also place your generator further than 5 feet if your yard has enough space. In addition, there should be a space of 3 feet in front of the generator to give room for servicing and repairs. Finally, your generator must be placed on a concrete pad.
