Topic: How To Connect Generator To Natural Gas Line (10 Ways)
Building a natural gas generator Connecting it to the natural gas line can be tricky, and you need to know how if you want your generator to run smoothly, but some things are so easy that even if you’ve never done it before you can still get it right on the first try! Read on to learn how to connect the generator to the natural gas line in 10 different ways.
Find an Attachment Kit
The first step is finding an attachment kit that will properly allow you to connect your generator to the natural gas line.
This item can be found at your average hardware store. Follow the directions that come with the kit once you have it.
Ask an employee or look at online tutorials if you are unsure of something.
Pick Up a Natural Gas Regulator at Home Depot
If you have a natural gas generator, you’ll need to get a natural gas regulator. This can be found at most hardware stores like Home Depot.
Just make sure to pick up the right size for your generator. For example, if you have a 20KW generator then you would need to buy the 1/2 threaded connection.
These are easy to identify because they will say natural gas on them.
Some also require an additional adapter called a pressure regulator, which is only available in specialty shops or via mail order.
Pressure regulators help maintain the integrity of the pressure while passing it through the lines and into your home’s piping system.
Without one, there is always a risk that natural gas will reach too high of pressure and cause damage when flowing into appliances with less-than-robust valve fittings.
Go to The Utility Company Website
Go to the utility company’s website. To connect your generator to the natural gas line, you will need to contact your local utility company.
Each company has different procedures, so you must follow their specific instructions.
The first step is to go to their website and find the contact information for the customer service department. You should be able to easily find this information on the homepage of the site.
The next step is to call them and speak with a representative. You may also be able to request a call back from them or ask them questions through email.
A lot of companies also have a chat option available where you can speak with someone live in real time.
Next, they will require certain information about your address and account details.
Work with Your HVAC Contractor
- Work with your HVAC contractor to ensure that your generator is properly sized for your home and needs.
- Choose a location for your generator that is close to your natural gas line.
- Have your HVAC contractor install a shut-off valve near the generator.
- Install a flexible gas connector from the shut-off valve to the generator.
- Make sure that the connection is secure and does not leak gas.
- Test the connection by starting up the generator and running it for a few minutes.
- Shut down the generator and disconnect the gas line when you are finished using it.
Have Your Electrician Connect the Wires
If you’re planning on using your generator for backup power, you’ll need to have an electrician connect it to your home’s wiring.
It’s a fairly simple process, but you’ll need to keep a few things in mind. Always be sure to properly ground the generator.
Next, connect the wires from the generator to the proper breaker in your electrical panel. And finally, be sure to have your electrician install a transfer switch so that you can safely and easily switch between power sources.
It might seem like a lot of work up front, but these steps will save you time and money down the road.
Turn on The Power
Now that everything is properly connected, it’s time to turn on the power. And to help you make the best decisions, here are a few pointers.
First, make sure all circuit breakers are turned off. Next, find the main switch and flip it to the on position.
Finally, slowly turn on each circuit breaker one at a time. If anything seems strange or out of place (a buzzing noise or sparks), shut off the breaker immediately.
If nothing goes wrong with any of the circuits, you can now flip them back on one by one until they’re all turned on.
Test the Connection with Propane
If you’re using a generator that’s fueled by propane, you’ll need to take some extra steps to ensure a safe connection.
First, test the connection with propane before connecting it to the natural gas line. This will help ensure that there are no leaks in the system.
To do this, open the valve on the propane tank and turn on the generator. If everything is working properly, you should see a steady stream of propane flowing into the generator.
If there are any leaks, you’ll need to repair them before proceeding.
Close the Lid and Open up the Vent Cap
Now that everything is all hooked up, it’s time to finish the job by closing the lid on your generator. But before you do, make sure to open up the vent cap so that natural gas can flow into the generator.
This will help prevent a build-up of pressure inside the generator which could cause problems down the line.
Plus, it’ll help keep your generator running smoothly. Once the lid is closed, use an adjustable wrench or crescent wrench to tighten the nut around the natural gas pipe where it meets with the generator.
Check for Leaks
Before you use your generator, it’s important to check for leaks. This can be done by opening the generator’s shut-off valve and then turning on the gas.
If there is a leak, you’ll hear a hissing noise. Once you’ve located the leak, turn off the gas and tighten or replace the defective part.
For example, if you find that the intake hose has a hole in it, replace it with a new one.
Install Shutoff Valves Outside and Inside of Unit
- Turn off the gas at the propane tank or meter.
- Disconnect the black steel pipe from the existing flex line.
- Remove any tape or wrap from the threads of both shutoff valves and lightly coat threads with joint compound.
- Hand-tighten each valve a few turns onto its corresponding pipe end.
- Tighten each valve another 1/4 turn with a wrench, being careful not to overtighten and damage valves or pipes.
- Reconnect the black steel pipe to the flex line, making sure that the connection is secure and will not leak gas.
In conclusion: How To Connect Generator To Natural Gas Line
The easiest way to connect the generator to the natural gas line is by using the method of connecting the generator to the natural gas line. The process of connecting the generator to the natural gas line is very simple and safe. All you need to do is follow the step-by-step instructions provided by us and enjoy the benefits of a natural gas generator.
