Installation placement clearances

[accurate]

Hello,

Guardian requires generator placement 3' from structure. I know that it needs to be at least 3' from the gas meter and the electrical meter. Is there a minimum distance from windows, vents & doors? What about being under a tall deck?

[Kelly Myers]

You cannot place ANYTHING 3' in front of a gas meter or an electrical meter.

In Michigan, you must keep the exhaust of any stationary engine 4' from a cold air intake (not exhaust) and 10' from any window that can open.

We have installed window locks to meet code, rendering a window unable to open. This has been in certain circumstances where theres no other place to put the generator. The theory is, since these generators can start automatically, you could leave a window open, and while nobody is home, the generator could start during a power failure and fill your house with carbon monoxide

[accurate]

How about under decks? or under a covered area such as a carport or patio?

[Peddler]

Does any one know the specific code(s) that prohibit the location of a generator under an open deck. Specifically one with 8' clearance and gravel underneath and the exhaust end of generator flush with the outer edge of the deck. Peddler

[johnc]

Problem is recirculation of exhaust gases back into fresh air intake.

[murphy]

Also if the wind is in the wrong direction anyone on the deck is going to be inhaling carbon monoxide.

[Peddler]

I would like to see the specific code that effects this. Both of those situations could happen in other installations under the right or wrong conditions. Peddler

[SkipD]

Originally Posted by Peddler

I would like to see the specific code that effects this. Both of those situations could happen in other installations under the right or wrong conditions. Peddler

The applicable code is NFPA 37. I do not believe that it's available on the web without buying it.

[George]

SkipD Here,s a link to NFPA 37 interpatation.

http://www.nfpa.org/assets/files/PDF.../FI37-2010.pdf

Thank a Fireman when you see one.

[Peddler]

OK, I have read that and would agree that if the deck was less then 5 feet from the top of the unit or there was a combustiable wall less then 5 feet from it. I could agree to the under deck exclusion if the Air Cololed enclosure had not been rated by UL. But it seems to me that under a tall open deck if you are away from any combustibles and located at the outer edge so the exhaust was blown away from the deck it should be allowed. Peddler