Home Generator FAQs
Choosing the Right Home Generator
Yes, a properly sized whole-house generator can power your entire home during an outage, so long as the generator has sufficient capacity to handle your household's total electrical load, including appliances, HVAC systems, lighting, and electronics.
Because sizing the generator correctly is critical, it's beneficial to have a professional assessment conducted to calculate your home's power demands and recommend a generator for your specific needs.
Installation and Setup
The cost of installing a whole-house generator can vary significantly depending on the generator's size and capacity, the type of fuel it uses, and the complexity of the installation process itself.
For instance, larger generators designed to power an entire home typically involve more intricate electrical work and specialized components, which can increase overall expenses. Your home's existing electrical system, local permitting requirements, and whether the installation involves modifications like gas line extensions or additional wiring can also affect the total installation cost. Get a quote today!
Typically it takes about 6 to 8 weeks from initial planning to fully functioning unit.
Total time can vary based on stock availability, permit processing, fuel contractor scheduling and local regulations.
Maintenance and Operation
Regular maintenance is essential every 6 months to keep your home generator operating reliably during power outages.
Typical maintenance tasks include:
- Checking and changing oil
- Replacing air and fuel filters
- Inspecting and replacing spark plugs
- Examining the battery and connections
- Performing load tests
- Checking hoses, belts, and cooling systems
Always adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and guidelines, as timely servicing not only prolongs the generator’s lifespan but also ensures it's ready when you need it most.
The continuous runtime of a home generator depends on fuel type, capacity, and overall design. Natural gas generators can often run indefinitely, provided there's an uninterrupted supply of fuel from the utility line. Propane and diesel generators typically run as long as fuel remains available in the storage tank, so a larger storage tank will provide longer runtime.
Many manufacturers recommend periodically shutting down the generator to inspect fluid levels, perform routine maintenance checks, and prevent overheating or mechanical strain. Continuous operation without periodic downtime or inspections may accelerate wear and shorten the generator’s lifespan. Always consult your generator’s user manual and adhere to recommended runtime guidelines to ensure safe, effective operation.
