DIY Generator Shed

In an era where power outages are increasingly common due to severe weather events, having a reliable source of backup power is becoming more of a necessity than a luxury. One feasible solution is installing a permanently connected generator to your house. This article will provide an in-depth exploration of how you can build a generator house for a Harbor Freight 8750 generator, a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive whole-house generators.

Building the Generator House

In the summer of 2017, the author of this DIY project chose to house a Harbor Freight 8750 generator in a custom-built generator house. This generator, which provides peak power of 8750 watts and continuous running power of 7000 watts, was a cost-effective choice, as the frequency of power outages in the area did not justify the expense of a more permanent whole-house generator. The generator house was built with insulation in mind to shelter the generator and also serve as a noise buffer. A unique feature of this design is the hinged roof, which lifts for easy access to the generator for maintenance or refueling.

Keeping the Generator Cool

A crucial aspect of this setup is the cooling system. To keep the generator's engine cool, a six-inch duct fan was installed. This fan, located in the back corner of the generator house, powers on as soon as the generator starts, blowing cool air over the engine. To expel warm air, an attic fan was installed that starts as soon as the temperature inside the generator house reaches 50 degrees. This fan is wired directly to another plug in the generator, ensuring that the generator house stays cool even during extended periods of use.

Power Connection and Safety Measures

The generator is connected to the house's power supply via a buried power line. The line runs from the generator house, across the driveway, and into the house by the regular electric meter. A crucial safety feature of this setup is an interlock device installed in the breaker panel. This device ensures that the generator can only be turned on when the main breaker connected to the service power is turned off, preventing electricity from flowing back out onto the service from the generator during a power outage.

Conclusion

Building a generator house for a Harbor Freight 8750 generator is an affordable and practical way to ensure you have backup power during an outage. This DIY project not only provides a cost-effective solution but also a quiet and cool operation, thanks to the insulation and cooling system. While the author of this project has rarely needed to use the generator, the peace of mind it provides is invaluable. Remember, the best time to prepare for a power outage is before it happens, and having a backup power plan in place can make all the difference.