Whole-Home Standby Generators in Austin, TX

Why should I consider a generator for my Austin home?

Power outages can last from a few hours to a couple days…or even several weeks! Natural disasters and weather conditions such as ice storms, wind events or tornadoes can quickly turn the normal utility power off for neighborhoods, cities and even large sections of counties and states. Accidents, human error, utility failure and sabotage or vandalism can unfortunately send an area into a blackout.

How do I decide the proper size of a standby generator for my home?

This is perhaps one of the most critical decisions (actually, several decisions) you’ll make during the process. There is no absolute right or wrong during the “sizing” deliberation process. A good contractor should help guide you in this process.

In a nutshell, you’re faced with deciding exactly which of your home’s electrical components will work when the generator is operating. Only the electrical plugs, switches and appliances you’ve pre-determined will work. The more you decide need to work, the greater the electrical load requirement, and the larger the generator needs to be. This in turn impacts the price for the unit and for its installation. There are many size units, and a good contractor will help you determine the kilowatt size you need, plus enough headroom to allow for a reasonable margin of operating safety. If you get multiple estimates for generators from several contractors, compare sizing estimates carefully. Be aware of any that appear to be recommending units of significantly different kilowatt size–larger or smaller. Ask them to explain their recommendation.

For example, one of the easiest decisions for most homeowners is any type of refrigeration device–refrigerators and freezers. Most homeowners will want those appliances permanently connected to the generator for the convenience of having fresh food as well as to protect the investment of food stored there. Another common choice is to connect central AC systems or electric water heaters, so the luxuries of every day living are still accessible. However, things like lighting in certain rooms or plugs that power TVs, computers and other appliances will need to be considered. During a freeze event, do you need to be able to power the pump system on your pool or other water features? What about cameras, lighting and security systems in place around your home–is it important to keep them functioning?

In short, every single plug, switch and appliance in your house will require critical thinking about what is essential to you and your family during a power loss. All of these decisions will need to be made, and a good installation company should offer help and advice.

Where will the generator need to be located?

That decision can be impacted in a number of ways: local codes, specifications from the generator manufacturer, the layout of the yard and home and proximity to natural gas lines (if natural gas is to be the power source of the generator). You’ll want the generator installed as close to the gas supply as possible to minimize plumbing costs.

Some generators meet municipal codes that allow installation as close as 18 inches from a home, but that does not mean they will meet all local codes. Standby generators produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can reach dangerous levels in just minutes. Local codes can dictate things like proximity to vents and fresh air supplies regarding where the generator is placed.

Additionally, do you have neighbors? Your installation can impact them with noise and exhaust fumes. At 20 feet, a quality air-cooled unit can make about as much noise as a central air conditioner. Minimizing these factors should be considered.

Some general guidelines which may vary by manufacturer or by local building codes include:

• The top of the generator and any roof overhang–are there codes which come into play?
• Distance from any windows or doors that open.
• Proximity to vents or other opening in the house.
• Manufacturer specifications regarding the distance from the generator back/rear to the house.
  If natural gas isn’t accessible, where would a propane tank need to be located in order to be in proximity and allow operation? Can the tank be above ground or does it have to be buried?

All of these questions will need to be answered, and a good installation company should offer help and advice.

Can ABC install a standby generator?

Yes. With a large staff of electricians, plumbers and helpers, ABC can deploy one of the most skilled work forces in the area. All of our specialists are licensed as appropriate for their trade and work under the leadership of a Master Electrician and a Master Plumber. Furthermore, all the people involved will be full-time ABC background checked specialists, so you can feel comfortable with our team on your property.