Whole House Generators

Power Outages happen at any time… be secure that you will have safety, comfort and convenience with an easy-to-use generator and 24/7 protection. Our electricians will work with you to select the best model for your residential or commercial needs. Never lose power again!

What Are the Different Types of Generators?

The Standby home Generators

A standby home generator keeps your power on during an outage. When power goes out, the generator comes on automatically within seconds – even if you are not home. It is installed outside of your home. These generators run on propane or natural gas, so you never have to worry about not having fuel available when the power goes out. No extension cords ever needed. It should be installed by an electrician so you can ensure it is set up in the proper location and follows local ordinances and noise restriction.

Portable Generators

A portable generator is a gas or diesel-powered device which provides temporary electrical power. The engine turns a small turbine, which in turn creates usable electricity up to a certain level of wattage. The home or business owner needs to be home and fuel the generator. They run on extension cords unless you purchase a manual transfer switch. These come in different sizes and our electricians can guide you with the best purchase and train you to comfortably use during a power outage.

Solar Generators

A solar generator converts solar energy from the sun into electrical power. Most use one or more solar panels to generate DC electrical power and then convert it to AC electricity to run your home or business. No gas or propane is needed. These are best when a power supply is needed for a shorter time but since they have no engine, they are much quieter. Our electricians have experience with solar construction and will be able to counsel you if this is your best option for a power supply.

Running a Home Generator Safely

Generators are so valuable to have for your home or business when power outages occur. As useful as they are, they are also potentially dangerous if precautions are not taken. The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator. Familiarize yourself with how to operate the generator before you need it so you’re completely prepared when the time comes.

To avoid electrocution, keep the generator dry and do not use it in rain or wet conditions. Operate it on a dry surface under an open canopy-like structure, such as under a tarp held up on poles. Do not touch the generator with wet hands.
Be sure to turn the generator off and let it cool down before refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
Store fuel for the generator in an approved safety can. Use the type of fuel recommended in the instructions or on the label on the generator.
Be sure to have a functioning carbon monoxide monitor.
Store any fuel outside of living areas in a locked shed or other protected area. To guard against accidental fire, do not store it near a fuel-burning appliance, such as a natural gas water heater in a garage.
Plug appliances directly into the generator, or use a heavy duty, outdoor-rated extension cord that is rated (in watts or amps) at least equal to the sum of the connected appliance loads.
If a cord is needed, make sure it is free of cuts or tears and that the plug has all three prongs, especially a grounding pin.
Never try to power the house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet. Known as “backfeeding,” this practice puts utility workers, your neighbors, and your household at risk of electrocution.
Remember, even a properly connected portable generator can become overloaded, resulting in overheating or generator failure. Be sure to read the instructions.
If necessary, stagger the operating times for various equipment to prevent overloads.