They say silence is golden, but there is nothing worse than the silence of a house that has lost its power. The hum of the electricity is replaced with a running list of items in your home that you need and wish could be powered. With power outages becoming more common, having a portable generator is no longer a nice-to-have but a need-to-have.
But who do you turn to for generator installation?
The answer is complex depending on your needs, but in this guide, we will break it all down for you. From the different types of generators to commonly asked questions about generator installation, we will provide the expert information you need to safely and legally install a generator for the next power outage.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Different Types of Generators?
- Who Installs Generators?
- Commonly Asked Questions About Generator Installation
- PDX Electric: Professional Generator Installation Upgrades You Can Depend On
What Are the Different Types of Generators?
Generators come in a variety of different types, each designed to perform different power tasks based on location, needs, and usage. Choosing the right generator ensures you have a reliable power source for when you need it most.
Portable Generators are mobile, gas-powered, and great for temporary power. Some common uses include:
- Job sites
- RV’s
- Events and recreation
- Basic home outage needs (lights, refrigerator, Wi-Fi, medical devices)
Standby (Home) Generators are large, permanently installed units that automatically turn on when you experience a power outage in your home. They will power your entire home or business using natural gas or propane, including:
- HVAC
- Medical devices
- Refrigerators
- And more.
Inverter Generators are compact, portable generators that produce clean, stable power. It is safe for electronics and is quieter than other portable generators. It is best for service devices or for settings that need quieter power, such as campsites.
Portable Power Stations are battery-powered devices that are quiet, safe for indoor use (no fumes), suitable for smaller electronics, and capable of handling short outages. While they are great for short-term and emergencies, they do need recharging.
Who Installs Generators?
After reading about the benefits of generators, you may be wondering who installs generators?
Whole-house generators are necessary for many situations and are typically installed by licensed electricians or generator installation specialists. Installation typically involves a team that may include:
- Electricians
- Plumbers or gas fitters
- Local inspectors
- And more.
It is essential not to DIY a generator because improper installation can lead to:
- Fire
- Electrocution
- Carbon monoxide emergencies
- Voided warranties
- And more.
If you need any upgrades to an existing generator, PDX Electric can help. We can update any connections to your existing generator and electrical panel. Contact us today to get your free estimate.
Do Plumbers or Electricians Install Generators?
Plumbers and electricians can be part of the generator installation process, but they work on different parts of the installation and cannot install generators themselves.
Electricians are always required for standby generator installation as they handle the electrical side of installation, including:
- Install transfer switches
- Connect the generator to your electrical panel
- Ensure everything meets safety codes
Plumbers are only required for gas-powered generators. They can:
- Connect natural gas or propane lines
- Install or modify piping
- Pressure test lines for safety and compliance
Who Installs Portable Generators?
One of the benefits of using a portable generator is that it does not require professional installation, but there are professionals available if you need assistance. Most portable generators come with easy-to-read instructions that include:
Following on/off instructions as provided
Placing the generator on level ground outside (never inside)
Filling the generator with propane or gas
Connecting devices with extension cords
Who Installs Portable Generator Transfer Switches?
If you need a transfer switch for a portable generator, a licensed electrician like PDX Electric can help. They can install manual or automatic transfer switches to safely connect a portable generator to a home’s electrical system. A properly installed transfer switch prevents dangerous conditions and can protect utility workers, your home, and your electrical equipment. It can also help power essential circuits with confidence during an outage.
Commonly Asked Questions About Generator Installation
Who Should Consider Having a Generator Installed?
There are many reasons why a homeowner would want a generator installed, including those who:
- Live in an area that experiences weather-related or seasonal power outages
- Are elderly or disabled and require the use of electric medical devices
- Live in a historic home or a home without updated wiring
- Have a large house or property
A generator provides peace of mind, ensuring essential systems and appliances remain operational during a power outage. These backups can not only be functional and cost-effective, but also life-saving.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Generator?
Generator pricing varies depending on type. On average, installation costs range from $8,000 to $16,000, which includes the generator itself. Pricing can vary based on factors such as the size of your property, the complexity of the installation, and your location.
Do Generator Installers Need To Be Licensed?
If you are in the market for a generator installer, it is essential to find a professional who is licensed, insured, and compliant with local electrical and building codes.
What Upgrades Are Typically Required for Portable Generator Installation?
When it comes to generator upgrades, PDX Electric has seen it all. The most common upgrade is to install an inlet and an interlock kit to your main electrical breaker. This allows you to connect your portable generator to your breaker box safely. If you have questions or concerns about your generators or whether they need any upgrades, contact us, and we can help.
What’s the Upgrade Process for Installing a Portable Generator?
If you need an upgrade to your generator, PDX Electric can help in three easy steps:
- Request a free estimate by phone or online.
- Our team will visit your site, inspect the electrical system, and provide an on-site estimate.
- Once approved, we handle any upgrades and communicate recommendations for any additional needs in the generator process.
It is important to note that while PDX Electric does not specifically install generators, we can install the connections and upgrades to the electrical panel for portable generators.
PDX Electric: Professional Generator Installation Upgrades You Can Depend On
When installing or upgrading your generator, it is crucial to find the right team of professionals to ensure the job is done efficiently, safely, and legally. Proper installation not only protects your home and family but also ensures your system complies with appropriate codes.
PDX Electric is happy to be a part of the team to make that happen. We are trusted, family-owned electricians with over 15 years of professional experience in the Portland community and beyond.
Our knowledgeable team of professionals can provide electrical panel upgrades and system improvements to keep your home running safely and efficiently, whether for general electrical use or for a reliable generator during a power outage. We take the time to assess your home’s electrical needs and recommend solutions for long-term performance and safety.
In addition to our generator upgrade services, our team of qualified electricians provides a variety of electrician services, including:
- EV charger installation
- Switch & outlet installation
- Electrical panel repair
- Generator installation
- Lighting installation
- Hot tub wiring installation
- Home electrical inspection
- Remodeling electrical work
- And more.
Contact us today for a free estimate and take one step closer to a safe, efficient, and dependable home.
