Generator enclosures provide a safe, secure location for safely storing, maintaining and operating small generators. Ideally, generator enclosures are built to the same standards as other permanent structures on your property.
This article will help you build a power generator enclosure that is both cost-effective, and provides maximum security for your generator. These enclosures can be built almost anywhere with enough space and privacy.
Assuming there isn’t already a laundry list of other generator enclosures nearby.
What You’ll Need to Build a Generator Enclosure
- Permits: Your local city or county might have specific regulations for the construction of a generator enclosure, some of which require a building permit. Depending on where you live, the permit requirements and costs may be minimal or extensive, and different from your typical building code.
- Materials: The majority of generator enclosure construction requires only basic tools, including a hammer, tape measure, straps, and a ladder. Additional tools and materials, including power tools, are available if desired, but are not required for the majority of enclosure construction.
- Land: You’ll need some empty land to build your generator enclosure. Depending on the size of your generator, you could use as little as 1/4 of an acre, or as much as 2 or 3 acres.
- Privacy: You’ll also need some level of privacy, and some degree of protection from the elements.
- Clear Line of site: Your generator enclosure should have a clear line of site to the generator, and the surrounding area.
- Access: Is your generator enclosure accessible by car? Do you plan to add a car port?
- Foundation: Will your generator enclosure sit on concrete, or dirt? Many generator enclosures require a foundation, and the type of foundation you use could affect the cost and construction time.
- Electrical: Will you be wiring any fixtures or fixtures to your generator enclosure? Any electrical fixtures should be wired to the circuit breaker panel, and the electrical panel.
- Plumbing: Will plumbing be within the generator enclosure, or outside of the enclosure?
- Water: Does your location receive enough water pressure for a faucet, or will you be using a water tank?
- Gas: Does your location receive enough gas pressure for a gas line, or will you be using a propane tank?
- Fuel: What kind of fuel do you plan on using in your generator?
- External: Other considerations for your generator enclosure: External maintenance, Extra lighting, Monitoring equipment, Awnings, Solar panels, etc.
How to Build a Generator Enclosure
Assuming there isn’t already a laundry list of other generator enclosures nearby.
- Select a Location: Depending on your generator size, and local weather conditions, the ideal location for your generator enclosure will vary. Be sure to select a location that is safe, secure, sunny, and has good soil.
- Get Permits: Depending on where you live, your generator enclosure could require a building permit, which requires a survey, and can be expensive. Depending on your location, you may be able to get building permits waived or expedited.
- Build a Foundation: Select a location for your generator enclosure, and create a foundation. A generator enclosure foundation is typically the foundation for other building structures, such as a house or garage, but it can be any type of sturdy material.
- Build Walls: The majority of generator enclosure construction is the building of walls, and the enclosure of a generator. The walls should be low enough to prevent intruders from seeing into the enclosure, or close enough together to prevent access.
- Build Roof: What’s on top of your generator enclosure roof will greatly affect the amount of light, and warmth your generator receives.
- Construct Gates: Select an access gate, and construct it to your generator enclosure’s specifications. The gates should be strong enough to withstand attempted access, and be easily controlled.
- Construct Fencing: Select a type of fencing, and construct it according to your generator enclosure specifications. Solar panels, and other equipment within your generator enclosure will greatly benefit from a high-quality fence.
- Construct Lights: Will you be installing external lights, or internal lights within your generator enclosure?
- Construct Wiring: Will you be running any wiring within your generator enclosure? The majority of your wiring should be buried, but depending on your generator’s size and location, you may need to run some of it above ground.
- Construct Gates: Select an access gate, and construct it to your generator enclosure’s specifications. The gates should be strong enough to withstand attempted access, and be easily controlled.
How Much Does a Generator Enclosure Cost?
Depending on your location, your generator enclosure pricing will range from $500 for a basic shed, to $10,000 for a permanent outdoor building.
How Long Does a Generator Enclosure Take?
Depending on your location, your generator enclosure construction time will range from a few weeks, to a few months. The length of time required will depend on your location, your generator size, and your generator enclosure specifications.
Final Words: Why You Need a Generator Enclosure
Depending on where you live, a generator enclosure could prevent the need to purchase a new home. A generator enclosure can decrease your home insurance rates, and could keep you and your family safe in the event of an outage. There are a lot of advantages to building a generator enclosure or fan enclosure. Depending on your location, you may find even more reasons to build a generator enclosure. A generator enclosure can prevent theft of your generator, increase generator reliability, and reduce your monthly power bill.
A generator enclosure can also be a great investment for your family. If you have young children, or anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, a generator enclosure could prevent injury or death.
