Generators

As the grid becomes more congested due to increased energy demands, having a backup generator installation to power essential circuits during power outages is becoming more of a necessity. Power companies are frequently cutting power to homes during storms nowadays, or even struggling to bring systems back online in a timely manner. Don’t get caught waiting for days, enjoy the security of knowing that you can keep your perishables safe and enjoy some basic creature comforts during extended outages. Keep reading or contact us now to learn more.

Most of our customers opt for partial backup of their home by utilizing portable generators to provide limited capacity to their existing panels. This is accomplished by installing an appropriate sized circuit breaker to “backfeed” the panel. In order for this to be accomplished safely, an interlock must also be installed. The interlock is a metal bracket designed to prevent the backfeed breaker and the main circuit breaker from being “ON” at the the same time. If both breakers were in the on position simultaneously, damage to the generator or your electrical service equipment could occur if the utility power is restored while the generator is plugged in. Depending on the panel manufacturer, interlocks may come in different styles, but the overall functionality is always to prevent both breakers from being “ON” at the same time.

Depending on the size of your generator, you may be able to power your refrigerator and a few lights, or you may be able to power your entire home and even run your heating and air conditioning equipment as well. This will also depend on the generator output voltage options.

Of course, the option to install a whole home standby generator with an automatic or manual transfer switch also exists. Due to the initial investment cost of this setup, most homeowners consider this a luxury as opposed to a necessity. This is why we see more portable generator backup installations.