Load shedding is as much part of our South African routine as commuting to and from work and having a braai on the weekend. We’ve evolved to plan our lives around the load shedding schedules and roll our eyes when the app lets us know there are unplanned power outages tonight.
Generators are the first choice of supplemental power supply for many homes, businesses, factories, farms, hospitals, and more.
However, using large, expensive machinery means you must consider your and your workers’ safety and protect the generator against damage. Generator exhaust can pose several potential dangers if not properly managed.
If you have a generator as your backup power source, you should consider building a generator enclosure or shed. When doing so, it is extremely important to ensure adequate ventilation for optimal performance of your generator.
Why Build a Generator Box Enclosure?
There are numerous benefits to having a generator box enclosure and a variety of purposes it can serve. Below are some reasons to consider building or buying a generator enclosure.
Noise reduction
Generators can be noisy, especially if they operate for extended periods. Building a generator silencer box enclosure helps contain the noise and reduces its impact on the surrounding environment. This is particularly beneficial if the generator is located near residential areas or sensitive spaces where noise regulations must be adhered to.
The noise from a generator is a significant factor for many businesses and homes, and most areas will prefer you opt for a soundproof generator if given a choice.
Protection from the elements
Protecting the generator through an enclosure shields it from external elements like rain, wind, dust, and debris. This safeguards the generator’s components, prolongs its lifespan, and guarantees it operates well in different weather conditions.
Security and theft prevention
One effective way to deter generator theft is by enclosing it in a secure box enclosure. This makes it difficult for unauthorised individuals to access or steal the equipment, especially in areas such as construction sites, outdoor events, or other locations where security is a concern.
And since South Africa is riddled with load shedding and crime, generator enclosures will give you one less thing to worry about.
Compliance with regulations
In certain areas or specific applications, local regulations or building codes may require generators to be enclosed within a designated structure. Building a generator box enclosure ensures compliance with these regulations and avoids potential penalties or legal issues.
Aesthetics and space management
Generator boxes can contribute to the overall aesthetics of the surrounding area, especially if the generator is located in a visible or frequently used space. You can maintain a visually appealing and organised space by building or buying an enclosure that blends with the environment or complements the surrounding structures.
Improved generator ventilation and air circulation
When constructing a generator box enclosure, you can design it to include proper ventilation systems by adding an extractor fan. This helps ensure adequate airflow for cooling the generator and prevents overheating. Controlling the temperature within the enclosure enhances the generator’s performance and reduces the risk of malfunctions.
Proper ventilation and airflow in a workspace or area where a generator operates for a prolonged period are essential for everyone exposed to your generator exhaust.
Potential dangers of generator exhaust
It’s essential to be aware of the potential dangers of generator exhaust. Generator exhaust can release harmful pollutants, causing a variety of severe symptoms such as respiratory issues, headaches, dizziness, and prolonged exposure can lead to more severe conditions like heart disease.
Facilities that use generators must comply with local and national occupational safety and health standards regarding air quality and emissions. Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines and legal consequences. That is why it is important to also ensure the adequate ventilation and safe extraction of exhaust emissions from the enclosure.
Here are some of the main risks associated with generator exhaust:
Generator exhaust can pose several risks to human health and safety. Carbon monoxide (CO), a toxic and odourless gas, is one of the most significant hazards. Inhalation of high concentrations of carbon monoxide can lead to poisoning, which can be life-threatening and cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and even death.
Generator exhaust can also be a fire hazard if it comes into contact with flammable materials. This risk is exceptionally high when the generator is placed in an enclosed space without proper ventilation, as heat buildup can increase the risk of fire.
Apart from carbon monoxide, generator exhaust may contain other harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can lead to respiratory issues, aggravate existing respiratory conditions, and cause other health problems.
Breathing in generator exhaust fumes can irritate the respiratory system and cause breathing difficulties. The fumes may contain harmful chemicals and particles that can damage the lungs and other organs.
Minimise these risks by taking the proper precautions:
- Ensure the generator’s exhaust fumes are directed away from people, buildings, and ventilation systems.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home or building as an early warning system in the event of CO buildup.
- Regularly inspect and maintain your generator, including the exhaust system, to ensure it functions properly without emitting excessive fumes.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations regarding generator placement, ventilation, and safety measures.
- Avoid running the generator in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces, such as a basement or garage. Instead, position it outside in a well-ventilated area, keeping it away from windows, doors, and air intakes.
- If you have to run your generator indoors or in an enclosed, be sure to install a generator box.
Recommended Indoor Generator Setup
When installing generators indoors, it is crucial to consider various factors, such as the accessibility of the generators, as well as the design and routing of ventilation airflow. Proper attention to the following details is essential for safe and efficient installation:
Accessibility
We recommend leaving sufficient space between the generator and the room’s walls for optimal inspection and maintenance. This allows operators to efficiently perform their tasks, promoting efficiency and safety by preventing collisions and injuries.
Routing and Ventilation
It’s important to have a separate and distant entry point for the air to ensure proper ventilation for the generator. The intake louvres should be positioned low to allow for adequate airflow over the entire generator, which will help to cool the alternator and remove internal heat. Also, exhaust fans should be placed high and directly above the generator to remove heat and unwanted emissions effectively.
Ducting and exhaust pipes
Use appropriate ducting and exhaust pipes to direct generator exhaust gases out of the building safely. Ensure the materials can handle high temperatures and are adequately insulated to prevent heat transfer. Direct exhaust pipes away from windows, doors, and air intakes to avoid fumes re-entering the building.
Fire suppression and detection
Install fire suppression and detection systems in the generator room. This includes fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and fire alarms. Regularly inspect and maintain these systems to ensure they are in working condition.
Fuel storage and handling
When using a generator that runs on diesel or gasoline, it’s vital to ensure that the fuel is stored and handled safely. Use containers or tanks designed for flammable liquids and follow proper safety protocols when refuelling the generator. To minimise the risk of fire, make sure to keep the fuel storage area separate from the generator’s space.
Noise insulation
Use soundproofing materials or acoustic enclosures to reduce the sound and noise levels generated by the generator. This helps create a more comfortable working environment and minimises noise disturbances in adjacent areas.
Proper electrical wiring
Ensure that the electrical wiring for the generator is done by a qualified electrician following applicable electrical codes and standards. Use proper grounding techniques to decrease the risk of electrical shock and ensure the generator is correctly connected to the building’s electrical system.
Regular maintenance
Implement a maintenance schedule for the generator and its components. This includes regular inspections, cleaning, and servicing to ensure optimal performance and minimise the risk of breakdowns or malfunctions.
Types of Generator Enclosures
Generator enclosures protect generators from harsh weather conditions and lower noise levels. Various DIY options are available, ranging from small boxes to large sheds, with different materials and costs.
- Wooden enclosure: If you build a wooden chamber, you can do so affordably by constructing a flat-topped, asymmetrical lean-to using shingles, peaked or gabled styles. Searching for plans incorporating multiple hinged or sliding doors or lids is advisable.
- Soundproof enclosure: A soundproof baffle box might be just what you need to reduce generator noise. These boxes work best when lined with materials that absorb sound, such as mass-loaded vinyl, medium-density fibreboard, acoustic caulking, or green glue sealant.
- Steel enclosure: You can choose to build the chamber with sheets of galvanised steel. It is crucial to have appropriate hinged openings in metal structures to ensure proper ventilation.
- Concrete enclosure: When constructing a box with concrete blocks and mortar, you can expect it to be incredibly durable, sound-resistant, and secure. However, it’s important to take extra precautions when it comes to both ventilation and accessibility.
Consult With Experts
Remember to consult with professionals such as electricians, HVAC specialists, and building code officials to ensure that your indoor generator setup meets all safety requirements and regulations specific to your location.
At Wingfan Africa, we provide a range of industrial axial fans suitable for various applications. Our fan solutions cater to the needs of the HVAC industry, as well as mobile and stationary engine cooling and livestock ventilation. We would be happy to assist with any of your generator enclosure ventilation requirements.
Contact us today to ensure proper ventilation for your generator enclosure.