Concrete pads are some of the most commonly used foundations for a generator. They serve as a base on top of which a generator is placed. These pads allow the generator to stay on a high level and not get buried into the ground by the movement of sand or gravel underneath it. If installed without a concrete pad, exposure to sand or gravel can affect the quality of your generator.
Here are some tips that you need to follow while installing a concrete pad in Troy, Michigan.
Sizing
When installing a concrete pad in Troy, Michigan, the most important factor to consider is the sizing. Sizing of the concrete pad needs to be done in accordance with the likelihood of flooding as well as the conditions of the soil.
Here are two ways for sizing a concrete pad.
Fitting the Pad to the Generator’s Sub-Base Tank
The first sizing method is to pour concrete in such a way that it fits the sub-base tank of your generator. This way the discharge hoods as well as the enclosure intakes extend beyond the pad on either ends. While pouring the concrete make sure to consider the submittal of the stub up drawing of the sub-base tank. The sub-base tank is the part that rests upon the concrete pad.
Center the Generator Over the Pad
Another way of sizing the concrete pad is to center the generator over the pad. In order to do so the dimensions of the enclosure needs to be compared with the dimensions of the concrete pad. There are two easy ways to do the above mentioned. Either you can center the base of the tank on the shorter pad or you can center the whole unit on a bigger pad. Both of the aforementioned ways are equally effective for sizing the concrete pad.
Verification of the Conduit’s Location
When installing a concrete pad for your generator in Troy, Michigan, another important thing to consider is the placement of the conduit. An easy way to do so is by sketching up the unit. You can do so by keeping the starting and ending points of the tank base and the enclosure. These sketches serve as important reference points. The sketch can be used for ensuring the right location of the conduit on the sketch.
Enclose Your Generator
In order to keep your generator safe, consider making an enclosure around it. The enclosure needs to be 6 inches on all four sides. But before you do, take a look at the local laws about making a generator enclosure in Troy, Michigan.
If you are about to install a concrete pad for your generator in Troy, Michigan, make sure to follow the above mentioned tips.
If you are interested in learning more about concrete pad installation in Troy, MI, give our staff at Flat Rock Concrete Construction, Inc. a call today! Our office numbers are (248) 379-0250 or (586) 726-6091 and we hope to hear from you soon!