Have you recently bought a new generator and you’re confused about how to prepare a sturdy base for it? People usually prefer installing a concrete base for their generator because of its durability. Your generator will stay upright and won’t sink into the ground. To prepare the base, concrete is not simply poured into the ground. The thickness of the generator concrete pad is decided according to the weight and other dimensions of the generator.
Here are some important considerations that you must keep in mind while installing a concrete pad for your generator.
Placement of Concrete Pad
The soil conditions and the chances of flooding are important factors that help in determining the placement of concrete pads. The concrete base must be strong enough to save your generator from sinking in and it must be high enough to keep the generator safe from flood water.
Here are two ways to properly size your concrete pad.
Use the Generator’s Sub Base Fuel Tank as a Reference for Sizing
Pour concrete to fit the generator’s sub-base fuel tank. The metal enclosure of your generator will cover the concrete pad from all the sides and make sure that your generator is safe.
The sub-base tank stub up drawings can help you correctly pour concrete to build the generator pads. Refer to those drawings and the initial weather enclosure drawings to help you out.
Size the Pad so That the Generator Is Placed in Its Center
The second method is to pour concrete such that it surrounds your generator from all sides and your generator sits in the center. For this, you need to compare the length and width of your enclosure with that of the frame.
Placing the Conduit
It is important to decide where the conduit will be placed before you start with the generator pad installation. The installation should not hamper the conduit connection of your generator.
Enclosure for the Generator
If you have decided to build a concrete pad for your generator, then you must also invest in a generator enclosure. A common practice is to install it at least six inches on all sides of the generator. Consult a professional to help you decide which enclosure is best for you according to the local codes.
Deciding the Dimensions of the Concrete Pad
Determining the generator concrete pad thickness is important along with its length and width. A 12-inch long concrete pad supported with a rebar can handle compression of 2500 psi considering that the pad is placed flat on the ground.
The weight of the concrete pad should be 125 percent of the generator’s weight along with its fuel so that it can provide a sturdy base for the generator. For instance, if your generator weighs 10,000 pounds then its base should weigh 12,500 pounds.
The above-mentioned tips will help you in installing the right concrete pad for your generator. If you need further assistance, call Flat Rock Concrete Construction, Inc. today. You can reach us at (248) 379-0250 or (586) 726-6091. Hiring a professional will ensure that you have installed a strong and sturdy concrete pad for your generator.