Do Generators Need to Be Professionally Installed?

When the power goes out during a storm, the worries begin. It might be the food going bad in your refrigerator or medical devices that need power to work properly. You rely on your electricity. This is where a generator can come to the rescue.

There are a few types of generators that can help. Some options can power your fridge for up to a week, and bigger ones can keep your entire home running while the power is out. Once you find the right generator for your needs, it needs to be installed. You might wonder if you really need a professional to install it. The short answer is, yes, you need professional installation. It’s time for an in-depth look into why professional installation of your new generator is so important. 

Types of Generators

There are several types of generators that can be used for a residential home. The type you choose depends on your needs, situation, and budget. Here’s a look at the three most common types of generators for home use:

Portable Generators

Just like the name suggests, these generators are ideal for when you need power on the go. It might be a power source while camping or a tailgate party for your favorite football team. These generators are smaller and more easily moved from one location to another. You can use them for your residence during a power outage. 

You can choose a portable generator that uses one of the various types of fuel sources. These include natural gas, propane, and diesel. These generators are not very big, but they can run small appliances around your home as long as you keep the source of the fuel available to the unit. 

Inverter Generators

With an inverter generator, you get clean and more stable power. You can even use an inverter generator to power more sensitive electronic equipment. It works by taking an alternating current (AC power) and changing it to a direct current (DC power), and then it changes it back to an AC current. 

Due to the way these generators invert the power, they’re generally quieter than other portable ones and more energy efficient. These use natural gas, diesel, or propane as their fuel source. Many times, people with an RV or who enjoy camping will have this type of generator. 

Standby Generators

Standby generators are for homeowners who want their entire home up and running while the power is out. These generators start automatically when the electricity cuts out. The installation of these generators is permanent and meant for use at your home or commercial building. 

During installation, these generators are wired into your home’s electrical system. The fuel types are typically either natural gas or diesel, and the generator installation includes linking them to the natural gas or diesel line. While this is the most expensive type of generator on the list, it’s also the most comprehensive and gives you the most electrical coverage during a blackout.  

The Downside of DIY Generator Installation

It’s never a good idea to try to install a generator by yourself. The reasons this is a bad idea include:

• Safety hazards: Installing a generator includes working with electrical and gas lines. If you don’t know exactly what you’re doing, you run the risk of electrocution, gas leaks, and explosions. 
• Improperly installed: Generators need to be placed in a precise way and need to be properly integrated into the residence’s electrical grid. If they aren’t, they can fail to work, damage your home’s electrical system, or run inefficiently. 
• Voided warranty: Most new generators come with a manufacturer’s warranty that will be voided if the unit isn’t professionally installed.

There are real dangers of attempting to install a generator on your own. 

The Dangers of Installing a Generator by Yourself

Installing a generator without the help of professional can come with some real dangers. Some things you need to consider include:

• Gas leaks or explosions: Your generator needs either natural gas or propane to run and needs to be hooked up to the line. If it isn’t done correctly, you can end up with a leak.
• Damage to appliances: If your generator isn’t installed property, your home may experience surges, damaging your appliances. 
• Electrical hazards: An incorrect move during installation can lead to electrocution or an electrical fire.

To keep your family safe, you need a professional installation. 

The Benefits of a Professional Installation for Your New Generator

When you hire a professional electrician to install your generator, you get various benefits. These include:

• Experience and expertise
• Proper placement
• Stay within local codes and regulations
• Prevents fires
• Proper ventilation for carbon monoxide
• Prevents gas leaks
• Prevents damage
• Provides energy-efficiency
• Meet all building codes
• Remain within noise regulations
• Fast installation
• Warranties remain in place

You can avoid the hassle of trying to install your own generator when you allow a professional to do it. Enjoy the confidence of knowing it was installed correctly, and it’s ready to roar to life when the power goes out. 

The Generator Installation Process

If you’ve never had a generator installed, you want to know more about the steps and process. Here’s an overall of the process:

• Site chosen for placement of the generator. It must meet all building codes, local codes, and regulations.
• Create a stable base for the unit. 
• Secure permits from the town, city, or county.
• Connect the generator to the home’s electrical grid.
• Connect the generator to the fuel source.
• Install the transfer switch.
• Test the system.

While the steps sound easy, they require technical knowledge. 

JP Electrical Offers Reliable, Professional Generator Installation

Professional installation of a new generator is essential for your family’s safety and to ensure it’s running properly. At JP Electrical, we have more than 25 years in business, and our technicians are all certified electricians. We’re committed to your satisfaction and providing you with high-quality work on every job. Our team wants to partner with you on the installation of your new generator. Contact us now.