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Title	What do I do when I expect a snow storm, or if there is snow building up around the unit?

URL Name	What-do-I-do-when-I-expect-a-snow-storm-or-if-there-is-snow-building-up-around-the-unit

Content

Public Content

Issue

Accumulating snow may affect the generator's operation or cause damage to the generator by restricting airflow to the exhaust system.

Environment

This article applies to Generac home standby generators.

During times when snowfall is expected:

Ensure that snow and/or ice is cleared off of, and away from, the enclosure.
There should be no snow piles or large accumulations of snow within three feet of the unit to ensure proper airflow if the unit is needed in an outage.
If necessary, due to local codes or in areas with high precipitation, the unit may be installed on a structure to elevate the unit.
The base for the unit must be level, and meet all spatial recommendations in the manual, as well as comply with local and national codes.
If prevailing winds will cause blowing or drifting, consider using a windbreak at a safe distance to protect the unit.
If an owner will be away and knows that snow storms are possible, they should ask a trusted neighbor oeeer family member to keep an eye on the generator, or the unit can be turned to the off position, and the 7.5 amp fuse removed.
If the unit will be turned to the OFF position for more than 90 days, the unit must be removed from service by following the remove from service procedures outlined in the owner's manual.