Installation of a generator for a house.

broadgage:

A few other points to consider. Future proof the presumably buried cables between generator hut and house. Suggest as a minimum;

1) Generator output cable, at least two sizes bigger than required for the load, in case you get a bigger generator.

2) Mains supply into generator hut. Suggest a 32 amp circuit, for battery charger, engine block preheater, room lighting, and use of power tools or gardening equipment. 

3) Spare, a 7 core small SWA for any future use, remote start ? intruder alarm ? external lighting switched from house ?


Consider also future running costs.

If an off peak tarrif is available, then consider only energising battery charger and engine heater during offpeak hours.

I have previously advised against automatic start and automatic changeover as this adds cost and complexity, it also adds a 24/7 load of as much as 25 watts, a not entirely negligable ongoing cost for energy.

Hello Broadgage,


Thanks for the message / post!


I was thinking about how to run the supply, etc. Initially I thought of 'tails' but, obviously that wouldn't work so SWA, I guess? GOOD point about a multiple cable, (MICC, I have lots with many cores), for two way switching, (lighting), remote control etc... good idea!!


Off peak tarrif, didn't think of that, either. So, make a new plan... larger shed type / brick built outbuilding to store garden items and use the multicore for an alarm system, maybe??


Thanks again! I've mentioned I've 'bookmarked' this post as there's too much to remember and thanks to everyone who has taken their time to mention things I hadn't thought of!!


Good luck for 2021!!! 


Regards...


Tom


 

broadgage:

A few other points to consider. Future proof the presumably buried cables between generator hut and house. Suggest as a minimum;

1) Generator output cable, at least two sizes bigger than required for the load, in case you get a bigger generator.

2) Mains supply into generator hut. Suggest a 32 amp circuit, for battery charger, engine block preheater, room lighting, and use of power tools or gardening equipment. 

3) Spare, a 7 core small SWA for any future use, remote start ? intruder alarm ? external lighting switched from house ?


Consider also future running costs.

If an off peak tarrif is available, then consider only energising battery charger and engine heater during offpeak hours.

I have previously advised against automatic start and automatic changeover as this adds cost and complexity, it also adds a 24/7 load of as much as 25 watts, a not entirely negligable ongoing cost for energy.

Hello Broadgage,


Thanks for the message / post!


I was thinking about how to run the supply, etc. Initially I thought of 'tails' but, obviously that wouldn't work so SWA, I guess? GOOD point about a multiple cable, (MICC, I have lots with many cores), for two way switching, (lighting), remote control etc... good idea!!


Off peak tarrif, didn't think of that, either. So, make a new plan... larger shed type / brick built outbuilding to store garden items and use the multicore for an alarm system, maybe??


Thanks again! I've mentioned I've 'bookmarked' this post as there's too much to remember and thanks to everyone who has taken their time to mention things I hadn't thought of!!


Good luck for 2021!!! 


Regards...


Tom