Home Generators Installation

Tag: Generator Cost

  • What Size Generator Do I Need for My Home?

    Choosing the wrong generator size leads to either wasted money or a unit that can’t power your essentials when you need it most. Generator sizing is about matching the unit’s output to your home’s critical electrical loads. Here’s how to determine the right size.

    Understanding Generator Capacity: Generators are rated in watts (or kilowatts). A small portable generator might produce 3,000–5,000 watts, while a whole‑home standby unit produces 20,000–26,000+ watts. To know what you need, you must calculate the starting and running watts of the appliances you want to power. Running watts are the continuous draw; starting watts are the higher surge required by motors (AC units, well pumps, refrigerators) when they first turn on.

    Step 1: Decide What You Need to Power. Do you want to run just essentials—refrigerator, some lights, a furnace—or your entire home including central AC? Essentials can often be handled by a 5,000–10,000‑watt portable generator. Whole‑home backup typically requires 20,000+ watts. For the different types of units, see our types of home generators.

    Step 2: Calculate the Load. List every appliance you want to power and its running watts. Then add the highest starting watt requirement among motor‑driven appliances. The total is your minimum generator capacity. A simplified method: for whole‑home, use your home’s square footage and major appliances to estimate—your electrician can perform a precise load calculation.

    Step 3: Consult a Professional. The most accurate sizing comes from a licensed installer who will perform a detailed load calculation. They’ll account for your specific appliances, HVAC system, and any plans for future additions. For help finding a pro, see how to choose a licensed generator installer. For cost implications of different sizes, see generator installation cost. For the fuel requirements of different sizes, see generator fuel options. And for the installation process, see what to expect during installation.

  • How to Choose a Licensed Home Generator Installer

    Installing a standby generator is a complex project involving electrical, gas, and structural work. Choosing the right licensed home generator installer is essential for safety, code compliance, and a system that works when you need it. Here’s what to look for.

    1. Verify Licensing and Insurance. Always confirm the installer is a licensed electrician or generator contractor in your state. Ask for license and insurance information. They should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation. This protects you from liability if something goes wrong.

    2. Look for Generator Experience. Not all electricians are familiar with standby generator installation. Ask: “How many home generators have you installed in the past year?” and “Which brands do you recommend and why?” A pro with experience will understand fuel line requirements, transfer switch installation, and local code compliance. They should also be able to service the generator after installation.

    3. Get Multiple Written Estimates. Obtain at least three quotes. Each should break down the generator unit, transfer switch, electrical work, fuel line, site preparation, and permits. Beware of very low quotes—they may omit necessary work. For benchmark pricing, see our generator installation cost guide.

    4. Ask About Permits and Inspections. A reputable installer handles all permitting and inspection coordination. If someone suggests skipping permits, walk away. Unpermitted generator work can void insurance and create safety hazards. For details, see permits and codes for generator installation.

    5. Check Reviews and References. Read Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau reviews. Ask for references from recent generator installations. A quality contractor will happily connect you with satisfied customers.

    6. Inquire About Maintenance Plans. Generators need regular maintenance. A good installer offers ongoing service plans. See our generator maintenance guide for what to expect. And for fuel system considerations, see generator fuel options.

  • Natural Gas vs. Propane vs. Diesel: Which Generator Fuel Is Best?

    Your choice of generator fuel affects installation cost, operating cost, maintenance, and how long your generator can run during an outage. Here’s a comparison of the three main options for home standby generators.

    Natural Gas: The most popular choice for whole‑home standby generators. Natural gas is supplied by your utility through an underground line, so there’s no tank to refill. Pros: Unlimited fuel supply (as long as the utility line is intact), no refueling, clean‑burning, lower maintenance. Cons: Lower power output compared to propane or diesel (natural gas has less energy per cubic foot), may be unavailable in some rural areas, fuel line must be installed. For installation, see the generator installation process.

    Propane: Stored in a tank on your property. Pros: Higher energy density than natural gas, longer shelf life (doesn’t degrade like diesel), can be used in rural areas without natural gas service, burns cleaner than diesel. Cons: Tank requires periodic refilling, fuel level monitoring needed, tank installation costs. Propane generators are slightly less powerful than diesel but more powerful than natural gas models.

    Diesel: Typically used for larger, commercial‑grade generators, but available for homes. Pros: Most energy‑dense, highest power output, extremely reliable, long engine life. Cons: Fuel degrades over time and requires additives, noisy, higher emissions, fuel storage and delivery required, more maintenance. For most homes, diesel is overkill.

    Which Is Best for Your Home? If you have natural gas service, it’s the most convenient choice. If you don’t, propane is excellent—especially with a large tank. Diesel is only recommended for very large homes or those with specific high‑power needs. For help choosing a generator that matches your fuel choice, see generator sizing. For cost implications, see generator installation cost. For permits related to fuel lines, see permits and codes. And for ongoing fuel system care, see generator maintenance.

  • Common Home Generator Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

    When your generator fails to start during an outage, panic sets in. But many issues have simple causes and fixes. Here are the most common home generator problems and how to troubleshoot them before calling a technician.

    1. Generator Won’t Start: The most common cause is a dead battery. Standby generators use a battery to start, and batteries wear out over 2–4 years. Check the battery charge and connections. Also check the fuel supply—is the gas on? Is the propane tank empty? If the unit won’t start after these checks, call a pro. For maintenance that prevents battery issues, see generator maintenance.

    2. Generator Starts but Shuts Off Immediately: This often indicates low oil pressure or a clogged air filter. Check the oil level and air filter. Also check for overload—if the generator is trying to power more than its capacity, it may shut down.

    3. Generator Runs but No Power to Home: This usually points to a transfer switch problem. The transfer switch may not have engaged, or a breaker in the switch or panel may have tripped. Reset any tripped breakers. If the problem persists, a technician is needed.

    4. Generator Surges or Runs Rough: Dirty fuel, a clogged fuel filter, or stale fuel (especially in diesel or gasoline units) can cause rough running. For diesel, fuel conditioning is critical—see fuel options for details.

    5. Error Codes on the Control Panel: Most standby generators display error codes that correspond to specific issues. Consult your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s support line. Your installer should also provide support—see how to choose a licensed installer.

    When to Call a Professional: If you’re not comfortable diagnosing electrical or fuel issues, call a licensed technician. For cost expectations of repairs, see our installation and cost guide—many repairs are less expensive than you fear. And for understanding your generator’s expected lifespan, see how long generators last.