Where are emergency generators in dormitories generally located?

Question

This is research for fiction. It's an older building. Would it be in the basement or located outside? Also:

What are different ways they are powered?

If they are all fuel powered is there exhaust?

How long would they supply power?

How much noise do they make?

Answer 1

Since it is a dormitory situation, the E-generator is probably located in an outside building, if they have one. It would not be in a basement. They could be gas or diesel and the  time factor will be different for each case. They do have exhaust and can be noisy.  The hospital has a generator, the computer center would have one, living quarters are not required to have any, just exit lights.

Answer 2

It could be in the basement or outside. They are most commonly fueled with gasoline or diesel fuel. You can buy or make solar powered generators. I am sure there are a few other kinds as well. Yes there is exhaust. They have to be vented to the outside if it is inside  a building of any kind. The amount of supply time would depend on the size of the fuel tank. The amount of noise they make varies by design. You can buy or rent quieter ones. They normally cost more than the louder ones.