Automatic Standby Generator Installation

Why Ann Arbor Homes Need Standby Generators

Michigan weather causes frequent power outages. Ice storms in winter, severe thunderstorms in summer, and aging infrastructure mean Washtenaw County residents experience an average of 3-5 outages per year. For homes with sump pumps, medical equipment, home offices, or well water, even a short outage can be catastrophic.

A standby generator eliminates these concerns. The system monitors your power 24/7 and starts automatically within 10 seconds of an outage. No manual intervention required - it works whether you're home, at work, or on vacation.

Generac Guardian Series - Our Primary Installation

As an authorized Generac dealer, we primarily install the Guardian series - the most reliable residential standby generators available.

Natural Gas vs Propane Operation

Natural Gas (Recommended When Available)

If you have natural gas service, this is the ideal fuel source:

• Unlimited runtime during extended outages
• No refueling needed
• No tanks to rent or maintain
• Lower operating cost per hour
• DTE coordinates gas meter upgrade if needed

Propane (Rural Properties)

For homes without natural gas:

• Requires 500-1000 gallon tank
• 48-72 hours runtime on full tank
• Tank can be buried or above ground
• We coordinate with local propane suppliers
• Slightly higher power output than natural gas

Professional Installation Process

Typical installation takes 2-3 days of work, scheduled around concrete curing and generator delivery.

Initial Site Preparation (Scheduled in Advance)

• Pour concrete pad and allow proper curing time
• Trenching for underground conduit (if generator located away from house)
• Install conduit runs for future wiring
• Coordinate generator delivery timing

Installation Days (1-2 Days After Delivery)

Day 1:

• Set generator on cured pad with proper clearances
• Install automatic transfer switch at main panel
• Run control and power wiring through conduit
• Begin electrical connections

Day 2 (If Needed for Complex Installations):

• Complete electrical connections
• Gas piping connection (licensed plumber)
• Program transfer switch settings
• Full system test and load bank testing
• Customer training on operation
• Register warranty and set up monitoring

Code Requirements and Permits

All installations meet Michigan Electrical Code and local requirements:

• Electrical permit from local municipality
• Mechanical permit for gas connection
• Minimum 5 feet from windows and doors
• 18 inches from house (36 inches preferred)
• Proper disconnect switch installation
• Load calculation documentation

Automatic Transfer Switch Technology

The transfer switch is the brain of your backup power system:

• Monitors utility voltage on all legs
• Initiates generator start on power loss
• Transfers load after generator stabilizes
• Returns to utility when power restored
• 2-line LCD display shows system status
• Built-in surge protection

Annual Maintenance Requirements

Protect your investment with proper maintenance:

• Annual service: Professional maintenance recommended
• Oil and filter change
• Air filter replacement
• Spark plug inspection
• Battery test and replacement if needed
• Full system test under load
• Software updates if available

Who Benefits Most from Standby Generators?

Critical Need Situations

• Medical equipment dependency (CPAP, oxygen, medications)
• Sump pump in finished basement
• Well water (no power = no water)
• Work from home professionals
• Elderly residents or those with mobility issues

Convenience and Comfort

• Frequent travelers (protection while away)
• Home-based businesses
• Smart home systems
• Large families
• Luxury homes maintaining property value

Professional Consultation

Contact us for a walkthrough of your options and personalized recommendations for your home.