Many state and local building codes require installing a base for generators. A common base used for generators is concrete pads. Concrete is poured on the ground and the generator is installed on top of that. The generator settles on the pad evenly and won’t sink to the ground due to the shifting of sand or gravel.
In this post, you will learn about some important tips regarding the installation of concrete pads for generators.
1. Proper Sizing of Concrete Pad
Proper sizing of the concrete pad is essential. Concrete base should be sized based on local soil conditions and the likelihood of flooding.
Concrete pads can be sized in different ways.
a. Fit the Pad to the Generator’s Subbase Tank
One method is to pour the concrete to fit the subbase tank of the generator. Using this method, the discharge hoods and the enclosure intake extends beyond the pads at each end.
You should consider the submittal for the stub up drawings for the subbase tank when pouring concrete. Compare the drawings with the initial drawing of the weather enclosure elevation. The subbase tank is part of the unit that will rest on the concrete pad. The weather enclosure mounts above the subbase tank is the longest dimension that does not rest above the concrete pad.
b. Center the Generator on the Pad
Another method is to center the generator on the pad by comparing the dimensions of the enclosure with those of the frame.
You must center the entire unit on the longer pad. Also, you can just center the tank base on the shorter pad. You can use either of the above methods to properly install the concrete base for the generator. Both are effective for proper sizing of the concrete pad for generators.
2. Verify Location of the Conduit
Placement of the conduit is another important consideration when installing a concrete pad for the generator. You should sketch up the unit using the start and end of the tank base, as well as the enclosure. These should serve as the reference points. Next, you should use the drawing to ensure proper location of the conduit on the sketch.
3. Generator Enclosure
Consider planning for an enclosure around the generator. The enclosure for the generator should be at least 6 inches on all four sides. However, make sure that the state and local codes are followed when placing an enclosure around your generator.
4. Determine the Correct Length and Width
You can determine the correct length, width, height, and depth of the concrete pad based on the above plan.
The length of a concrete pad of 2500 psi compression strength that is reinforced with a rebar is 12 inches. The pad needs to be flat and placed on a solid subsurface leveled to within half an inch.
The depth of the generator should be 125 percent of the unit weight when fuel is included. For instance, a generator that weighs 10,000 pounds should have a concrete pad of 12,500 pounds. The following formula can be used to calculate the weight of the concrete pad.
Pad Weight= (Length x Width x Height) x 150
The above are some of the most important elements that should be considered when pouring a concrete pad for the generator. If you are looking for a professional contractor for proper installation of the concrete base, give Flat Rock Concrete Construction, Inc a call today. We can answer any questions you many have regarding your concrete needs. We can be reached at (248) 379-0250 or (586) 726-6091