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- Read and follow all the manufacturer's operating instructions to install and properly ground the generator – Be sure you understand all instructions before starting the generator – Look for the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Factory Mutual (FM) safety designations
- Standby generators should be installed by a professional and sized for your home's electrical requirements
- Standby generators are generally fueled from existing natural has service lines when present – if not, they require large-capacity propane or diesel fuel tanks to allow long term operation
- Installations require that the homeowner or installer file for an electrical permit with the Union County Engineers office (937) 645-3018
- Upon the electrical inspection approval the homeowner needs to notify their electric utility provider that they have a standby generator
- Standby generators have power transfer switches which disconnect your home from the electrical company service and feed power to your home from the generator – These switches also protect electric utility workers from accidental generator backfeed into the power lines
- Power transfer switches come in two types: automatic and manual – An automatic transfer switch will start the generator and transfer your home to the generator power when is senses the loss of utility power – Manual transfer switches require the homeowner to start the generator, first disconnect the home from the utility service and then switch the home to generator power
