Standby Generator Services

A whole-house backup power generator costs around $6,900 to install. This price includes a natural gas-powered 7.5-10kw (kilowatts) generator, electrical connections such as an automatic power transfer switch and auto-start capabilities when the power goes out, and the installation of a natural gas line to fuel the generator and provide the power requirements for your home.

The average cost of installing a manual transfer switch on a generator ranges between $400 and $1,300. This includes all material and labor costs. The average generator transfer switch installation cost ranges between $600 and $2,000 for automatic transfer switches.

Before purchasing a generator, consider the following: Do I need it to power only the necessary items or do I need heating and/ or cooling for the whole indoor space?

You can run the most critical household equipment, such as the refrigerator, freezer, well pump, and lighting circuits, with a generator rated at 5,000 to 7,500 watts. All of these appliances can be powered by a 7500-watt generator at the same time. More will be required to power your home HVAC unit. To be certain of what size generator is required to power an entire house, check the exact wattage of your home appliances. Watts or amps are frequently listed on their labels.

If your generator fails to start during an outage, modern systems have several built-in safeguards and backup options. First, the system will typically make multiple automatic start attempts before declaring a failure. If these attempts fail, the generator's control panel will display error codes to help diagnose the issue, and many models will simultaneously send alerts to your smartphone through their monitoring app.

For immediate action, most generators have a manual override system that allows you to attempt a start using the control panel. If this doesn't work, a manual transfer switch enables you to safely connect a portable generator as a temporary backup. However, this should only be done by someone familiar with the proper procedures.

To prevent startup failures, standby generators perform weekly self-diagnostic tests that check critical components like batteries, oil levels, and fuel systems. These tests typically run for about 10-15 minutes and will generate immediate alerts if any issues are detected, allowing you to address problems before an actual outage occurs.

The most common causes of failure include dead batteries, fuel supply issues, or maintenance-related problems. This is why regular professional maintenance is crucial. Many service providers offer 24/7 emergency support and can quickly respond to startup failures during outages.

Yes, a standby generator can power your air conditioning system, but proper sizing is crucial for success. Air conditioners require significantly more power to start up than to run continuously – this surge current is typically 2-3 times higher than the running wattage. For example, a 3-ton AC unit using 3,500 watts while running might need 8,000-9,000 watts during startup.

To effectively power your AC, your generator must be sized to handle both the initial surge current and the combined running wattage of your AC and other essential appliances. Modern generator systems include smart load management features that can temporarily turn off lower-priority items during AC startup and sequence the startup of multiple AC units to prevent simultaneous power surges.

A proper sizing calculation considers your AC unit's specifications (tonnage, SEER rating), starting and running amp requirements, and other essential appliances you want to power. The installation process requires professional evaluation of your electrical system, proper placement of the generator, and installation of appropriate transfer switches. Regular maintenance of both the generator and AC unit is essential for reliable operation during outages.

Yes, most local jurisdictions require permits for standby generator installations due to the complexity of the system and safety considerations. Here's what you need to know:

• Building permits and electrical permits are required in most areas because generator installation involves significant electrical work and permanent changes to your home's systems.
• The permitting process typically requires approval for:
  • Electrical connections and transfer switch installation
  • Natural gas or propane line installations
  • Concrete pad placement and generator location
  • Compliance with local noise ordinances
• Your installation must meet several code requirements:
  • Specific distance requirements from buildings and property lines
  • Proper ventilation and airflow clearances
  • Sound level restrictions in residential areas
  • Fuel line safety regulations
• Professional installers should:
  • Handle all necessary permit applications
  • Schedule required inspections
  • Ensure compliance with local building codes
  • Provide documentation of proper installation
• While permit costs vary by location, they typically range from $200-$500 and are usually included in your total installation quote.

Remember, unpermitted installations can result in fines, complications with home insurance, and safety risks.