Whole-house Generators

As winter fades and springtime leaps onto the stage, the weather focus changes from dealing with cold temps to dealing with hot weather and the potential for severe storms. Texas experiences between 50 and 60 severe thunderstorms; statistically, a hurricane will strike somewhere in Texas in 3 out of 4 years. A significant consideration in preparing for severe weather is determining whether a generator would be a beneficial purchase. Here are a few considerations for those contemplating the purchase and installation of a generator.

The primary concern that drives this consideration is extreme weather: extreme cold in the winter and extreme storms during warm months. However, severe weather is not the only concern. Generators are useful during any peak usage power outages or other causes.

Whole-house Generators Choices

Portable vs. whole-house generators.

• Portable options cost less and are not installed permanently. They can be used during weather events but can also be used remotely to power events without access to electric utilities. They can be connected to the residential electric service panel, or long extension cords can power specific appliances to customize their usefulness. A portable generator may require weather protection from heavy, driving rain. The generator and fuel supply will need to be stored until needed.
• Standby generators cost more and are permanently installed but have a generation capacity that will power an entire home. The installation must be far enough from the home to prevent the exhaust from entering the home; local regulations may require that the installation be elevated to avoid floodwater. This choice will be wired to start automatically within seconds of a power outage. It will be wired directly to the electric service panel. The generation capacity will determine whether it powers the entire home or selected circuits. Standby generators are manufactured with weatherproof covers.
• Both portable and standby generators are available with a variety of fuel types: natural gas, propane, and diesel-powered units are the most common. Standby generators can be hooked up to the local natural gas utility line. Propane and diesel-powered standby generators have larger tanks than portable generators but will need to be replenished as needed. Portable tanks are small and will need to be filled as necessary.

Whole-house Generators Installation

• Portable generators are not permanently installed. When not in use, they will need to be stored in a remote location. Be sure to position a generator at least 20’ away from the residence and away from doors and windows to ensure the exhaust does not enter the home.

  The generator, fuel, and cables will need to be stored—preferably in a storage space away from the residence. The generator and cable connections will need to be sheltered from rain and wind. A cable connection can be permanently installed through the wall near the service panel. Make placement determinations and procedures ahead of time since you might be doing this setup in the rain.

• Standby generators are a permanent structure installed a minimum of 20’ away from windows and doors. The fuel supply and cables for residential connection are usually buried. The unit is weatherproof and does not require auxiliary covering.

  It starts within seconds of detecting a power outage and shuts off automatically when power is restored, thanks to the transfer switch (more on this later). Local ordinances might require generators in low-lying locations to be elevated to ensure the generator is not submerged. Expect this installation to require professional installation.

• Any generator connected to the electrical service panel requires the installation of a transfer switch. This switch disconnects the home’s power distribution from the power grid whenever the generator starts producing electricity, and it disconnects the generator from the service panel when the power grid is restored. This prevents the generator from electrifying the power grid while repairmen are working to restore power.

We would love to answer your questions about Whole-house Generators

With our four decades of experience as a Residential Electrician Contractor, AirPro Houston provides you with the skills and expertise to help answer your Whole-house Generators Installation questions.

We have financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call our team of Electricians at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your Home Generator Installation needs.