There are a few things that we think a generator consumer should know before buying.....
"The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don't know!"​
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-Albert Einstein
Let's start off from the beginning with "what is a generator" and "how do they work?"
-A generator generally consists of a "prime mover", in our case it's an engine that runs on natural gas, propane, or even sometimes diesel. It's connected to an "alternator" just like the one in your car but bigger! The engine spins the alternator, and the alternator creates usable electrical current. There are a few basic size categories of generators you can read more about here.
What is involved in a "standby generator" installation?
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-First, we install a foundation for your new generator system, preferably hand poured concrete.
-Next, We take a self contained generator that runs on natural gas, propane, or sometimes diesel, and we mount it to the foundation with anchors.
-Then we connect it to the main gas supply there at the location. If there is not an existing fuel supply, in most cases, we can bring one in.
-Then we install a "transfer switch" (or multiple) on the existing main electrical equipment. The transfer switch will now control where the house gets it's power from... the utility company, or the generator. You can read more on transfer switches by clicking the tab below.
​-Lastly, we connect the generator to the transfer switch and install all your preferred or required accessories like: load shedding, surge protection for the building and the generator, real time monitoring equipment, and more!
You can read more about installation methods by clicking the tab below.
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You can learn more about accessories by clicking the tab below.
How's it work? Well, it works like the picture says, but there's definitely more to it!
-The generator is an independent 12 volt automotive system, just like a car. When you lose utility power, in part or in full, it's computer can "sense" that you've lost power.
-The generator then starts it's engine (it has a car battery in it), and it starts up and warms up the engine for a few seconds.
-Then the generator sends power and a signal over to your transfer switch, and it moves the house/building over to the generator connection. It is designed to run for days or even weeks, even if your not there.
-When the utility power comes back on, the generator will again "sense" that the power is back on. The generator will require the power to be good and stay on for at least 10 seconds, and then it will send a signal to "transfer" the power for the house/building, back over to the utility source.
-Then the generator engine shuts off and the generator returns to the "standby" position, ready for the next outage.
Learn more about transfer switches here.
Why do we install GENERAC brand?
Simple, it's the best product in their market. What I mean by that is there are actually several good generator manufacturers out there, BUT, each company has their niche. We've been in this industry for a few decades and what we have come to learn is...
-If you want a small gasoline generator, buy a Honda. Honda's are one of the most dependable, quietest, cleanest power options in a portable generator.
-If you want an RV generator on LP, go with an Onan, the little "Green Machines" can't be beat.
-If you want a "gaseous" stand-by generator, you get a GENERAC. They have some of the longest history, they have an engine product line with a valve train designed specifically for "gaseous" (NG/LP) applications. They have the best dealer and parts support network in the nation. Their designs have been slowly perfected, and even copied by other manufacturers. The Generac V-twin design is as American as the Chevy 350! Made in the U.S.A.
-If you want an industrial level, diesel generator, nothing beats anything driven by an inline 6 cylinder CAT.
Finally the most important question of them all... Are they worth it?
Short answer, ABSOLUTELY!!! BUT.... But, but, but,.. The long answer is even better and might blow your mind. Real estate polls show a stand-by generator to add an average of 5% to the sell-able value to your property. So, if the average "whole home" system is about $14,000 (turn-key, well equipped), and the raw value of your home is $329,000... then by the industry numbers $329K @ 5% = $16,450 you just made money putting a system on your home. Now, money sitting in a standard savings account won't yield you much. However, with the rate of inflation of real estate (which your generator is now tied to) at an 4.24% average, your money is not lost, it's just reinvested. Not only is it reinvested into the most solid investment that you have (your property), it's also protecting that investment from freezing pipes, or fire if you're on a well. It's keeping your family safe and off hazardous roads with all of life's amenities that you're used to. Are they worth it? I can tell you I feel safer and protected knowing everyone in my family has one.... Why don't you?
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Learn about low monthly payment plans here.