Whole House Generators

Whole Home Backup Power for Complete Peace of Mind

Whole house generators switch on automatically when they detect a power outage and can run for several days before needing maintenance.

How They Work

Whole house generators operate as follows:

1. The utility power goes out.
2. The generator senses the power outage and starts the engine.
3. The generator signals the automatic transfer switch to shift from utility to generator power
4. Backup power flows into the home
5. Utility power is restored
6. The generator senses that utility power is restored and signals the transfer switch to shift from generator to utility power
7. Utility power flows back into the home

FAQs

How Long Can a Whole House Generator Run Continuously?

Air-cooled standby generators should be shut down after every 24 hours of continuous use to check engine oil levels, inspect enclosure louvers for dirt and debris, and ensure there are no leaks in the fuel lines and connections. Liquid-cooled standby generators can run continuously for roughly three days before needing these checks.

What Size Whole House Generator Do I Need?

Whole house generators are so named because they are designed to power everything in your home and make you forget there is a power outage. Nonetheless, you still need to size your generator properly to prevent overpaying for a generator with more power than you need or choosing one that can’t power your whole house. The latter is more common in very large homes where you might want simultaneous power to multiple air conditioners, hot tubs, and other high-demand appliances. To size your whole house generator, add up the wattage requirements of every item and appliance you might want to power simultaneously in a “worst-case” scenario. Then, find a generator that meets or slightly exceeds that minimum. Our whole house generator sizing calculator does all of this for you.

How Do I Install a Whole House Generator?

In general, you should begin the installation process at least six months in advance to allow ample time for finding an installer, acquiring permits, etc.

Situations may vary, but here are some general installation guidelines:

6 Months Before Installation

1. Size Your Generator
   • Ensure it has enough wattage to power your essentials & more
2. Consult an Installer
   • Confirm that your installer is fully licensed, bonded, and insured
3. Pick Install Location
   • Pick a spot outdoors, at least 5 feet from windows or doors, preferably near your gas & electric meter

2-6 Months Before Installation

4. Confirm Proper Fuel Source/Supply
   • Natural gas, propane, and diesel options are available
5. Obtain Installation Permit
   • Can take days, weeks, or months depending on the municipality

1-2 Weeks Before Installation

6. Order Your Generator
   • Prep Installation Surface
7. Consider installing a GenPad for better stability
   • Contact Utility Provider for Shut Off
   • Will maintain a safe environment during installation
8. Install