Page last updated Jun 15, 2024 @ 02:57pm
PowerShelter II
Complete Plans, Parts List &
Assembly Instructions
DIY Generator Enclosure
Converts most garden sheds
into an enclosure for your portable generator.
Works with Suncast model BMS2500 storage shed
available from Lowes and BMS3400 from Home
Depot.
Also works with larger BMS4700 shed.
The PowerShelter II is designed to convert most garden sheds so they can house your portable generator outdoors for both storage and operation.
Design Features
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Storing your generator in this shelter frees up storage space in your garage, shed or basement for other uses |
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These PowerShelter instructions provide all the information for you to purchase the shed and small parts locally, order the fan and shutter online or by mail, and perform the modifications and installation. The installation normally takes a day. The major installation steps are:
Select proper location of generator and vents in shed.
Select method for routing power cable out of shed.
Cut two square vent holes in shed walls (if possible before assembling shed).
Install outlet shutter fan.
Install intake shutter and holding clip.
Route and connect all power wiring.
Install high temperature cutout on generator and test for proper operation.
Mount exhaust deflector or exhaust adapter if required.
Test generator along with fan and intake shutter.
Technical Details
Small
non-walk-in Sheds (and BMS2500, BMS3400) |
Large Walk-in Sheds | Large
non-walk-in Sheds (and BMS4700) |
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Generator ratings |
up to 7kW | up to 7kW | 8-15kW | 8-15kW |
Exhaust Fan Rating |
1/10 hp | 1/10 hp | 1/3 hp | 1/3 hp |
Exhaust Fan Shutter Size (nominal)* |
16" square | 16" square | 20" square | 20" square |
Intake Shutter Size (nominal)* |
20" square | 24" square | 30" square | 30" square |
Approx Rated Air Flow (cfm@ 0" SP) |
2,900 | 2,900 | 5,000 | 5,000 |
Fan Amps @ 120V | 1.0 | 1.0 | 3.5 | 3.5 |
Power Required (VA)** | 120 | 120 | 420 | 420 |
CO Monitor Required? |
no | yes | yes | no |
** Power
requirements for fan motor.
Derate generator Wattage by this figure. |
DISCLAIMER
We have designed this PowerShelter with safety in mind. However,
whenever fuel is used to operate an engine generator there is always a risk due to fire,
exhaust gases and electric shock. This kit will not completely eliminate those
risks. If a fire develops, metal sheds will not contribute to the spread
of the fire but sheds made of flammable materials could feed a fire.
Therefore we recommend the use of sheds made of non-flammable materials if
possible.
WARNING -- failure to
follow the directions for construction and use of this product can cause serious injury to
persons and property. Read all directions fully before attempting to modify your
shed and use only as directed. We DO NOT recommend that this
kit be installed in any space that is part of a dwelling or attached to a
dwelling.
LOCATION
You will need to prepare the mounting pad for the shed. Locate the pad as follows:
* within easy wiring distance to your transfer switch or breaker panel
with panel interlock
* away from bedrooms and other rooms where engine noise could be annoying
* at least 5 feet from any building opening such as windows, doors,
vents, soffit vents, etc.
* at least 5 feet from structures having combustible walls
* at least 5 feet from combustible material
* at least 5 feet clearance to any overhead structure, overhang, or tree
* not under a deck
* where exhaust cannot accumulate in any nearby occupied area
* allows space to open front doors and to move generator in and out
* meets any additional requirements of your local codes and Fire Marshal
SHED PURCHASE SUGGESTIONS:
Metal garden sheds can be purchased locally at some home improvement centers. Costs
start at about $300.00. The Suncast BMS2500 storage shed can be purchased at Lowes.
The similar Suncast BMS3400 can be purchased at Home
Depot. But these are limited to generator sizes up to 7999 watts.
Note also that the Suncast sheds are made of plastic resin and will burn
if exposed to fire. However they will usually first melt to a liquid before
starting to burn. Even though most sheds have provision for a padlock they
are not very theft resistant. A determined thief during a power outage
could break into the shed and steal the generator. Therefore we recommend the
additional theft prevention measures described in the instructions.
TRANSFER SWITCH & PANEL SUGGESTIONS:
If you do not already have a transfer switch, transfer panel you may click
here to order one from our wide selection. You will also need to obtain any
necessary building wire and a junction box locally if you wish to hard wire from the
transfer switch to the PowerShelter. As an economical alternative we also sell panel interlock kits here.
PORTABLE GENERATOR SUGGESTIONS:
If you do not already have a portable generator, view our selection online by
clicking here.
PURCHASING THIS ITEM GIVES YOU A 26+ PAGE DOCUMENT CONTAINING THE DETAILED PLANS, PARTS LIST, COSTS, SUPPLIERS, AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. THIS ALLOWS YOU OR YOUR ELECTRICIAN PURCHASE THE PARTS, MODIFY THE SHED AND PERFORM THE INSTALLATION. THE DOCUMENT IS NORMALLY DELIVERED BY EMAIL AS A COLOR PDF DOCUMENT FOR USER VIEWING AND PRINTING. HOWEVER, WE CAN ALSO SEND A PRINTED PAPER COPY FOR AN ADDITIONAL CHARGE. USE THE DROPDOWN MENU BELOW TO SELECT YOUR CHOICE.
Click thumbnails below for selected page previews.
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