Backup Generator Installations
We can safely install stand-by and backup generator systems
Backup Generator Installation in St. George and Cedar City
"Power when you need it most"
When the power goes out, we can make sure your home is still up and running with a reliable backup generator.
Standby or backup Electric Generators are quickly becoming a common upgrade for many modern homes and buildings in both rural and city settings alike. With the amount of essential electrical devices running in our homes and businesses a sudden or extended power loss can be extremely inconvenient. Not only an inconvenience but power outages can be extremely costly for commercial property owners and business owners who lose money when their facility is without power.
The solution is to have a standby electric generator installed on your home or building. Some backup systems can sense your power outage and kick in automatically, while others may need to be started up manually. Backup generators that we install typically run on natural gas, propane and they can be wired into the main panel or a transfer switch so you can run specific essential circuits under generator power.
Ampere Electric is a full-service electrical contractor serving the St. George and Cedar City area. Standby generators are a common building upgrade that we’ve performed many, many times. When you choose Ampere Electric to install your standby electric generator you will have the peace of mind knowing your installation is clean, safe and warranted against any defects.
More importantly, it’s going to work flawlessly when you find yourself in a situation that requires backup power such as a storm or other emergency power outage.
Backup Power Generator Installations:
- Emergency Power Backup Generators
- Transfer Switches and Generator Panels
- Residential Backup Power Generators
When we install a backup generator in your home, we hook a new breaker panel (load center) to your existing electric panel. Then we connect all the circuits you would need to run during a power outage to the new panel (which runs to your standby generator).
During a power outage you may want to keep your fridges and freezers running, maybe hot water tanks, well pumps, heat and lighting, computers, medical machines and more. It’s up to you to determine what you’d like to run and then a competent electrician will be able to advise you on the correct size generator and what can or cannot be hooked into the circuit.
For homeowners who don’t want the complexity of an automatic back-up power generator there is also the option of installing a “Inlet Plug” within your home. A “Inlet Plug” is wired to a sub panel that comes off your main panel with all of the utilities you’d like to run during a power outage.
The Inlet Plug is like your dryer plug that you can plug a portable generator into (with the correct cable). This is often a more preferable option if you’ve already got a decent portable generator but are sick of running everything with extension cords (which can be dangerous).
Either solution is something that Ampere Electric can complete for you. If you’d like to have a backup power generator system installed in your home or building, then give us a call.
Why Choose Ampere Electric for Your Backup Or Standby Generator Installation?
When you choose to work with Ampere Electric to install a backup generator you’re partnering with a small, local, company that has extensive experience in the electrical trades. We are licensed by the state of Utah and insured to work on the electrical systems inside of your home or building.
As an owner/operated company you can have the peace-of-mind knowing that any electrical work we complete will meet or exceed local electrical safety codes. The work we do will be safe and reliable and we also back all of our work with a 1-year warranty on our workmanship.
If you’d like to receive an estimate to install your backup or standby generator, give us a call at 435-868-1940 or fill out our online contact form and someone will be getting right back to you.
Planning To Install A Backup Generator?
When planning to install a backup or stand-by generator there are several important considerations to take into account
Size and Power Capacity: The first step is determining the right size and power capacity for your needs. This will depend on whether you want to power your entire home or business during an outage or just essential systems. We can perform a load calculation to help determine the right generator size for you.
Fuel Type: Generators can run on a variety of fuels, including natural gas, propane, diesel, and gasoline. The choice of fuel will impact the generator's cost, efficiency, and maintenance needs. Natural gas and propane tend to be popular choices for residential standby generators due to their availability and ease of use.
Location: The generator should be installed in a well-ventilated area and typically should be at least 5 feet from doors, windows, and vent openings. It should also be easily accessible for maintenance and repairs. Local building codes may dictate specific placement requirements.
Automatic Transfer Switch: An automatic transfer switch (ATS) monitors your utility power and automatically starts the generator during a power outage. Once utility power is restored, the ATS shuts down the generator and reconnects your house to the grid. This feature provides seamless power backup and is especially valuable for stand-by generators.
Noise Levels: Generators can be loud, so it's important to consider noise restrictions in your area. Some modern generators feature sound-dampening technology that can make them quieter.
Professional Installation: Working with electricity and gas can be dangerous, and there can be complex local building codes to navigate. Therefore, it's highly recommended to work with a licensed electrician to install your generator.
Maintenance: Like any machine, generators need regular maintenance to ensure they function properly when you need them. This includes regular engine oil changes, inspections, and testing. Some generator manufacturers or sellers offer maintenance packages.
Costs: Installing a backup generator can be a significant investment. The costs include the generator itself, installation labor and materials, fuel storage or hookup, and ongoing maintenance.
Legal Requirements: Always check your local regulations and codes before installing a generator. You may need to acquire permits, and there could be rules about noise levels, placement, and fuel storage.
Questions About Backup Generators?
How do I determine the right size for my backup generator?
The size of the generator you need depends on how many appliances and systems you want to run during a power outage. We can conduct a load calculation to determine the right size for your needs, taking into account both your essential and non-essential power needs.
What type of fuel is best for a home backup generator?
The best fuel type for your home generator depends on availability and personal preference. Natural gas and propane are popular choices because they can be directly piped from your utility, eliminating the need for fuel storage. Diesel generators are often more efficient, but they require on-site fuel storage.
Where should my backup generator be located?
The generator should be installed outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from doors, windows, and vent openings to prevent exhaust from entering your home. Local codes may have specific requirements for generator placement.
What is an automatic transfer switch, and why is it important?
An automatic transfer switch (ATS) monitors your utility power and automatically starts your generator when it detects a power outage. When utility power is restored, the ATS shuts down the generator and switches your home back to grid power. It provides seamless power backup and prevents back-feeding, which can be dangerous.
Can a backup generator power my entire house?
Yes, with a sufficiently large generator and appropriate wiring, you can power an entire house. However, it may be more cost-effective to only power essential circuits (like the refrigerator, heating system, lights, etc.) during an outage. We can help design a system that fits your needs and budget.