8 Important Questions About Natural Gas Requirements for Generators

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Gas Requirements for Generators
   1. Cubic Feet and BTUs
   2. Checking Generator Consumption
   3. Calculating Total Gas Usage
3. Assessing Current Gas Appliances
   1. Determining Usage of Existing Appliances
   2. Calculating Maximum Gas Consumption
4. Checking the Capacity of Your Meter
   1. Finding the Gas Meter Rating
   2. Evaluating Meter Surplus
5. Connecting Your Generator to Your Home
   1. Checking for a Barbecue Outlet
   2. Installing a Barbecue Outlet
   3. Basic Steps for Installation
   4. Safety Precautions
6. Determining Hose Size and Length
   1. Optimal Distance for Generator Placement
   2. Choosing the Right Hose Diameter
   3. Selecting Quick Connect Fittings
   4. Adapting to Generator Nozzle Size
7. Conclusion

Understanding Natural Gas Requirements for Generators

Introduction

If you have a natural gas supply at your home and are interested in using it to power your generator, you may have several questions regarding the gas requirements. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how to determine the gas needs for your generator and safely connect it to your home.

1. Cubic Feet and BTUs

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify the two key measurements you'll encounter when dealing with gas requirements: cubic feet and BTUs. Cubic feet denotes the volume of gas consumed per hour, while BTUs (British Thermal Units) indicate the heating power of the gas appliance.

2. Checking Generator Consumption

To begin, consult your generator's owner's manual to determine its natural gas consumption. Typically, this information can be found in the features or specifications section of the manual. For example, let's consider a tri-fuel Furman generator with a gas consumption of 70 cubic feet without any load and 101 cubic feet at full load.

3. Calculating Total Gas Usage

To accurately assess your gas needs, you must also consider the gas consumption of other appliances in your home. For instance, let's assume your furnace has a BTU rating of 100,000 (equivalent to 100 cubic feet of gas) and your hot water tank requires 38,000 BTUs (38 cubic feet of gas). In this case, the total gas usage of your appliances, along with the generator at full load, would be 239 cubic feet.

Assessing Current Gas Appliances

1. Determining Usage of Existing Appliances

Begin by identifying the gas-powered appliances in your home and their corresponding gas consumption. Typically, the furnace and hot water heater are common examples. Check the furnace for a sticker inside that displays either its BTU or cubic foot rating. Similarly, your hot water tank may have a label stating its BTU rating. In our example, the furnace has a BTU rating of 100,000, while the hot water tank has a BTU rating of 38,000.

2. Calculating Maximum Gas Consumption

By adding up the gas consumption of all appliances and the generator at full load, you can determine the maximum gas usage in your home. In our example, the combined gas consumption is 239 cubic feet. It's crucial to ensure that your gas meter can supply more than this total amount to meet all the requirements.

Checking the Capacity of Your Meter

1. Finding the Gas Meter Rating

To ascertain whether your gas meter can accommodate the gas demand, locate your meter and check for a sticker or label indicating its cubic foot rating. In general, most meters range from 175 to 275 cubic feet. If you reside in Canada, the rating may be in meters cubed, which can be converted by multiplying it by 8. For instance, a meter with a rating of 275 cubic feet is approximately equivalent to 2200 meters cubed.

2. Evaluating Meter Surplus

After determining your meter's rating, calculate the surplus or additional gas capacity available. In our example, the meter capacity matches the gas usage of 275 cubic feet, resulting in a surplus of 36 cubic feet. While 36 cubic feet may seem relatively small, it is usually sufficient since not all appliances will be running concurrently.

Connecting Your Generator to Your Home

1. Checking for a Barbecue Outlet

To connect your natural gas generator to your home, first, check if you have a barbecue outlet on the exterior of your house. This pre-existing outlet simplifies the process significantly. If you don't have one, you may need to hire a professional to install it for you.

2. Installing a Barbecue Outlet

If you decide to install a barbecue outlet yourself, there are a few essential steps to follow. Before starting the installation process, make sure you know the location of your gas shut-off valve and how to relight your appliances. Once you have the necessary knowledge, begin by turning off the gas and safely installing a T-connection in the gas line beyond the meter. Then, connect a nipple and a quick-connect fitting, ensuring a secure seal by using gas-rated Teflon tape or an appropriate sealant.

3. Basic Steps for Installation

Installing the generator connection is relatively straightforward. Firstly, determine the distance you want your generator to be placed from the outlet. While the recommended distance is usually 20 feet to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide accumulation and fire hazards, you may need to adjust this based on your specific needs. Once you have determined the distance, acquire a hose of suitable length, such as a 20-foot hose, to connect your generator to the outlet. Ensure that the hose is compatible with natural gas and features quick-connect fittings for easy installation.

4. Safety Precautions

When connecting your generator, prioritize safety. Always turn off the gas supply and test every connection with soapy water to detect any potential leaks. Adhere to local regulations and guidelines, and consider seeking professional assistance if you have any doubts or concerns about the installation process.

Determining Hose Size and Length

1. Optimal Distance for Generator Placement

When choosing a hose for your generator, take into account the recommended distance between the generator and the house. As mentioned earlier, the typical recommendation is 20 feet to ensure proper ventilation and safety. Thus, you will need a 20-foot hose to connect the generator to the outlet.

2. Choosing the Right Hose Diameter

To select the appropriate hose diameter, consider the gas consumption of your generator. At a fixed distance of 20 feet, a half-inch hose can provide just under 120,000 BTUs or approximately 120 cubic feet of gas. If you require a larger gas supply, such as our example of 101 cubic feet for the generator, a three-quarter-inch hose can provide just under 250,000 BTUs or approximately 250 cubic feet of gas.

3. Selecting Quick Connect Fittings

When purchasing a hose, opt for one that features quick-connect fittings. These fittings enable easy and secure connection between the hose and the generator. It is advisable to visit your local plumbing or heating supply store to acquire a 20-foot hose with male and female quick-connect fittings for both ends.

4. Adapting to Generator Nozzle Size

Before making the final connection, be aware that your generator may have a nozzle size that differs from the hose's diameter. In such cases, you will need an adapter to ensure a compatible connection. Take note of the required adapter and source it from a reliable supplier.

Conclusion

By understanding the gas requirements for your generator, assessing your current gas appliances, checking the capacity of your gas meter, and properly connecting your generator using the right hose size with quick-connect fittings, you can ensure an efficient and safe natural gas setup for your home. Always prioritize safety and follow the recommended guidelines. Now, you can enjoy the convenience and reliability of using natural gas to power your generator.

Highlights

1. Learn how to determine the gas requirements for your generator and efficiently connect it to your home's natural gas supply.
2. Understand the significance of cubic feet and BTUs when assessing gas consumption.
3. Calculate the total gas usage by considering the consumption of all appliances, including the generator.
4. Check the capacity of your gas meter and evaluate any surplus to accommodate the gas demand.
5. Install a barbecue outlet for convenient connection or seek professional assistance if required.
6. Follow the necessary steps for installation, ensuring safety precautions at every stage.
7. Choose the appropriate hose diameter and length based on the recommended distance between the generator and the house.
8. Select a hose with quick-connect fittings for easy installation and consider adapters if needed.
9. Prioritize safety by turning off the gas supply and testing connections for leaks before use.

FAQ

Q: Can I use propane gas instead of natural gas for my generator?

A: While this article primarily focuses on utilizing natural gas, many generators are designed to be compatible with both natural gas and propane. Consult your generator's manual and consider any necessary modifications or conversions before using propane.

Q: How do I ensure the proper ventilation of my generator when it is 20 feet away from the house?

A: Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Ensure that the generator is placed in an open and well-ventilated area, away from windows, doors, and any enclosed spaces. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and consult local regulations for specific ventilation requirements.

Q: Do I need a professional to make the connections or can I do it myself?

A: The complexity of connecting your generator to your home's natural gas supply depends on your level of experience and comfort with plumbing and gas systems. If you have little to no experience, it is advisable to hire a professional to ensure a safe and proper installation. However, if you have the necessary knowledge and skills, you can complete the installation yourself by following the provided guidelines and safety precautions.