Automatic Standby Generators
Power outages disrupt everything - from work-from-home setups to medical equipment, refrigerated food to heating and cooling. A whole house generator provides seamless backup power, starting automatically when the grid fails.
How Automatic Generators Work
The system continuously monitors your utility power. When an outage is detected, the automatic transfer switch disconnects from the grid and starts the generator. Within 10-20 seconds, your home is running on generator power. When utility power returns, the system automatically switches back and shuts down the generator.
Generator Sizing Guidelines
Proper sizing ensures your generator can handle your home's electrical load:
- Homes under 2,000 sq ft: 16-20kW typically sufficient
- 2,000-3,000 sq ft homes: 22kW recommended
- Homes over 3,000 sq ft: 24-26kW or larger
- Additional considerations: Pools, hot tubs, and multiple HVAC systems require upsizing
Popular Models
Generac Guardian Series (Most Popular)
The gold standard for residential backup power:
- 22kW: Powers most homes completely, including AC
- 24kW: For larger homes or heavy electrical loads
- 26kW: Maximum residential power
- Warranty: 5-year comprehensive, 10-year extended available
Generac PowerPact Series (Essential Circuits)
Good for essential circuits only:
- 7.5kW: Covers basics - furnace, fridge, lights, outlets
- No AC or heavy loads: Not whole-house coverage
- Good for: Small homes, essential power only
Fuel Options
Natural Gas (If Available)
- Unlimited runtime - no refueling
- Slightly less power output (10% reduction)
- No tanks to rent or own
Propane (Rural Properties)
- Need 500+ gallon tank minimum
- Must monitor fuel levels during outages
- Full power output
Installation Timeline
2-3 day installation process:
- Site prep: Pour pad, trenching if needed (scheduled in advance)
- Day 1: Set generator, install transfer switch, run wiring
- Day 2: Complete connections, gas piping, testing
- Complex installs: May require additional day
Maintenance Requirements
- Weekly self-test: Runs automatically for 12 minutes
- Annual service: Oil change, filter, battery check ($300-400)
- After extended use: Service after 24-48 hours runtime
Who Should Choose Standby?
- Work from home professionals
- Medical equipment users
- Frequent or long outages
- Sump pump dependence
- Well water (no power = no water)
- Frequent travelers
Portable Generator with Interlock Kit
A professionally installed portable generator with an interlock kit provides reliable backup power at a fraction of the cost of standby systems. This setup allows you to safely power your electrical panel during an outage - you choose which circuits to run based on your generator's capacity.
Flexible options: Professional interlock installation ($1,200-$1,500) works with your existing portable generator OR we can supply a new tri-fuel generator ($900-$1,500). The 50-amp models we recommend can power all lights and outlets in your home.
How the Interlock System Works
An interlock kit creates a safe, code-compliant connection between your portable generator and home electrical panel. During an outage:
- Position generator: Place at least 20 feet from house (carbon monoxide safety)
- Connect inlet box: Plug generator into outdoor inlet using included cable
- Start generator: Let it warm up and stabilize
- Switch interlock: Move interlock plate to generator position (prevents backfeeding)
- Manage loads: Turn on breakers for circuits you want to power
What We Install
Professional Interlock Kit System
- Interlock device: Mechanical plate prevents main and generator breakers from being on simultaneously
- Generator inlet box: Weatherproof outdoor connection point (30 or 50 amp)
- Generator breaker: Dedicated breaker in your panel for generator input
- Heavy-duty wiring: From inlet box to panel (typically 30-50 amp circuit)
- Proper grounding: Ensures safe operation
Generator Options
Tri-Fuel Generators (Our Recommendation)
- 50-amp output capability - Powers all lights and outlets
- Tri-fuel operation: Gasoline, propane, or natural gas
- 9,500-12,000 starting watts
- Electric start with remote
- Natural gas hookup available (we coordinate with gas contractor)
- Price: $900-1,500
Natural gas option: We can coordinate with a gas contractor to install a quick-connect for natural gas operation. This eliminates refueling during extended outages.
Use Your Existing Generator
- Already have a portable generator? We can install an interlock kit for it
- Minimum 30-amp output recommended
- Must have proper outlet configuration
- Interlock installation only: $1,200-1,500
What You Can Power
With a 50-amp tri-fuel generator (our recommendation):
- All lights in the house
- All standard outlets
- Refrigerator and freezer
- Furnace or boiler
- Sump pump
- WiFi and home office
- Microwave and small appliances
- TV and entertainment systems
- Garage door openers
50-amp capacity provides plenty of power for normal household operation (excluding major 240V appliances)
Installation Process
Quick and straightforward - typically completed in 3-4 hours:
- Assessment: Evaluate your panel and determine best inlet location
- Install inlet box: Mount weatherproof connection point outside
- Run wiring: Connect inlet to panel (through wall/basement)
- Install interlock: Mount mechanical interlock on panel
- Add breaker: Install dedicated generator breaker
- Test system: Verify proper operation and safety
- Training: Show you how to safely operate during outage
Cost Breakdown
| Component |
Typical Cost |
Interlock kit installation
Parts and labor, permit included |
$1,200-1,500 |
Tri-fuel generator (optional)
50-amp capable, if needed |
$900-1,500 |
Connection cable
Heavy-duty 50-amp cable |
$100-200 |
Natural gas hookup (optional)
Through gas contractor |
$300-500 |
| Total with new generator |
$2,200-3,200 |
| Using existing generator |
$1,200-1,500 |
Safety and Code Compliance
DIY generator connections are dangerous and illegal. Our professional installation ensures:
- No backfeeding: Interlock prevents sending power to utility lines
- Proper grounding: Protects against electrical faults
- Permit and inspection: Meets all local codes
- Insurance compliance: Documented professional installation
- Carbon monoxide safety: Proper placement guidance
Who Should Choose Portable + Interlock?
- Have existing generator or budget under $3,000
- Occasional outages (few times per year)
- Comfortable with manual switchover
- Want 50-amp power for all lights/outlets
- Interested in tri-fuel flexibility
- May move in next few years
