When Royal Oak, MI, homeowners think of getting a generator, they deliberate much and usually do some research on things like the model, size, etc. However, not many homeowners think about the generator’s foundation, even when the foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing the life of the generator.
Those Royal Oak, MI homeowners planning to get a generator must spend some time thinking about the foundation. When it comes to generator foundations, concrete pads are considered the ideal choice. Why? To start with, concrete pads allow homeowners to place their generator at a slightly elevated level, which keeps the generator from sinking into the ground. In the absence of a concrete pad, the sand and gravel move, eventually allowing the generator to sink into the ground. When this happens, the integrity of a generator becomes compromised.
This article is for those Royal Oak, MI, homeowners who are planning to install a concrete pad as the foundation for their generator. In this article, we discuss the few things that homeowners must know about the concrete pad installation process.
It Is Crucial to Select the Right Size
Royal Oak, MI, homeowners must know that it is crucial to select the right size. One of the key factors to be taken into account while determining the correct size of the concrete pad is the chances of flood. Similarly, soil condition is another factor that must be taken into account. Hire a professional who understands the soil and water condition in your area to help you with the installation process. If you are not sure about the soil and water condition in your area, here are two tricks that will help you choose the right concrete pad size for your generator.
- The part of the generator that rests directly upon the concrete pad or the foundation is called the sub-base tank. Royal Oak, MI homeowners must choose a concrete pad size that properly accommodates the sub-base tank. Ideally, the enclosure tanks and discharge hoods must extend out from the sides.
- Another trick that comes handy while determining the right size for a concrete pad is called centering. Using this technique, Royal Oak, MI, homeowners must either place their generator in the center of the concrete pad or choose a concrete pad that perfectly fits the center of the base of the tank.
Create Sketches and Use These Sketches as References During the Installation Process
Royal Oak, MI, homeowners must also take into account the conduit’s position or location while installing a concrete pad. Create a sketch and on the sketch, mark the start and endpoint of the tank’s base as well as the enclosure. During the installation process, use this sketch as a reference guide.
Do Not Forget to Put up an Enclosure Around Your Generator
Lastly, once they have properly installed their generator, all Royal Oak, MI homeowners must make it a point to erect an enclosure around the generator. The enclosure must be at least six inches in height and should extend on all four sides. Though most cities do not have very elaborate laws regarding generator enclosures, it is always a good idea to check with the city authorities before putting up the enclosure.
In Conclusion
Those homeowners planning to get a generator must mandatorily install a concrete pad as the generator’s foundation as concrete pads enhances the life of generators by preventing them from sinking into the ground. We hope the tips and tricks discussed in this article will help Royal Oak, MI, homeowners install their generator’s foundation the right way. If you are confused, do not hesitate to ask for help.
Give Flat Rock Concrete Construction, Inc. a call today! Our office numbers are (248) 379-0250 or (586) 726-6091!