Having a backup source of power is critical, especially since extreme weather is becoming more commonplace. Eighty-seven percent of power outages are caused by severe weather. Weather-related outages have doubled since 2003. An automatic standby generator provides you with 24 hour blackout protection and peace of mind, and knowing your family and your valued possessions are safe. At Captain Electric we can ensure your generator is professionally installed maintained and covered by our satisfaction guarantee.
Why Install a Backup Generator?
There are many reasons why more people are looking at installing a Backup Generator these days.
Power outages happen without notice. You only hear of the large province-wide blackouts in the News or those in big cities. But a blackout can be even more devastating for those who live in smaller communities.
One example of Active Outages occurred on Saturday May 21, 2022. Tens of thousands of homes were affected in our area with many not having power restored in the North Ajax Pickering area for up to 9 days after.
One of our electrical crews told the story of a customer they called on to do an inspection and quote to install a standby generator. The gentleman who had called was beside himself since his family had suffered several electric outages lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Since they lived in a smaller community, they were prepared with the usual flashlights, candles, and even oil lamps. But this did not help most of the family’s needs.
We can all relate to power outages. Usually, they just last a few hours. You first try to make things fun, eat snacks, tell family stories or play board games by candlelight. With no TV or Internet, you go to bed early. Especially in winter, you make sure you have extra blankets on hand. It is great when the lights come on again in the middle of the night, but when you wake up in the morning to a still cold house with no electricity, that is not fun.
Our client was understandably upset at the outages, which caused hardships for his wife and children. He said, “It is not easy to just pick up and go out for dinner when you have young children! My wife takes pride in putting away extra food in our freezer, but the two-day outage spoiled most of it. What a waste!”
Captain Electric is happy to help you find answers to your standby generator questions. Below are some points that will help you find everything you need to know to make a decision.
What is a Home Standby Generator?
Standby generators are a great way to ensure that your home or business has backup power during a power outage. They are ready to kick in whenever an outage occurs. A standby home generator is a reliable way to keep your lights on and your kitchen functioning during an outage.
Many people work from home these days, and it is essential to have a backup generator, especially when working to a deadline.
A standby generator is permanently installed outside your home and powered by natural gas or propane. They are available in various sizes.
What is the role of an emergency generator?
Emergency generators provide power for essential appliances, lights, and other equipment during power outages. They can also recharge batteries, maintain Internet and Satellite, and keep communication systems on-line.
We rely on electricity for so much! No matter what causes your electricity to go out, a Standby Generator ensures power outages don’t interrupt your life. You have power no matter how long the outage lasts. An emergency generator will ensure that food in your refrigerator or freezer that would have otherwise gone bad will keep. If you live in the countryside, it will keep your sump pump running. If you’ve lost power, you know how helpless you can feel.
What kind of generator is best for home use?
You need to decide if you wish to provide just enough electricity to power a portion of your home in an emergency or enough electricity to run your entire home.
When you have Captain Electric make a home visit inspection, they will help you decide on the size of generator that will be appropriate for your needs.
Make a list of the devices you need to keep running during a power outage. Standby air cooled generators usually range from 10,000 to 20,000 watts, while portable generators typically have 2,000 to 10,00 watts. Adding up your wattage requirements will help you decide what is best for your needs.
What is the best generator for emergencies?
A generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage caused by severe weather or another type of emergency. But, with so many different types and sizes of generators on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Consider how often you have power outages and how long they typically last.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a generator:
- Automatic Standby home generators are permanently installed. They start automatically when the power goes out. They self-exercise and send notifications aromatically to the homeowner and service provider.
- Portable generators are less expensive than standby generators and can be used for camping and short-term power requirements. However, they must be manually started and cannot be left unattended.
What’s the difference between an Automatic Standby Generator and a Portable Generator?
Automatic Standby Generator
Automatic Standby Generators are the best option for most homeowners. They’re powered by natural gas or propane and kick on automatically when the power goes out. Plus, they’re relatively quiet and can run for days at a time. Standby generators can provide enough electricity to run your entire home.
A standby generator won’t let you down when confronted with the unexpected. This is the right choice when your family’s peace of mind is at the top of your list.
An Automatic Standby Generator must be installed by a qualified, licensed professional electrician. Like other large equipment, such as furnaces, they should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they are in proper working order.
Portable Generator
Portable Generators are less expensive than Automatic Standby Generators. They are easy to move around and used in different locations. Portable Generators require regular maintenance and refueling. Automatic Standby Generators are powered by natural gas or propane, so you don’t have to worry about refueling them.
What’s the best generator for your home if all the power goes out?
Having a Standby Generator on hand is essential if you live in an area prone to power outages. But with so many different types and models of generators available, it can be challenging to know which one is right for your home.
At Captain Electric, our qualified, licensed professional electricians will explain all of the options and help you decide.
Firm Quotations by Captain Electric
Have you ever had a hired contractor stop mid-job and tell you there is an unexpected additional charge due to this or that? Most of us have experienced this, and it can be hard to bear when we have budgeted a certain amount.
This is why at Captain Electric, we insist on doing a thorough inspection before quoting, so we can give you an exact amount upfront.
Installing a Standby Generator is a significant project. The installation cost can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. Doing things right at the outset is always less expensive than finding out about problems later. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a backup power source in an emergency is priceless!
Who should install a generator?
Standby Generators require professional installation by a qualified, licensed professional electrician. Captain Electric is a Kohler Authorized Dealer.
- ACP Contractor #MCR0145
- ECRA/ESA Licence #7000641
- Bonded-Licensed-Insured
- Technician Seal of Safety
How does a generator get installed?
The first step is to select a suitable model for your home and personal needs. You determine the requirements with your Captain Electric licensed professional electrician.
Here is a brief list of requirements
- Home Site location
- Permits Required
- Power Connection requirements
- Fuel source
- Wiring the Generator
- Transfer switch installation
- Commissioning the System
- Registering Warranties
Should a homeowner install a standby generator?
Due to the complex nature of the installation and the requirements to follow applicable codes, a professional will know best how to properly size and install the generator for your home or business. Incorrect installation can be dangerous and void the warranty on the generator.
What size generator do I need for an emergency?
Factors that affect the size generator are:
- The type of appliances and electronics.
- Number of watts used by each appliance or piece of equipment
- The voltage requirements of your appliances and equipment
Captain Electric is a Kohler Authorized Dealer. We have licensed professional electricians who will be happy to help you determine the size generator you need for your home. We will consider all the factors necessary to ensure that the size and type of generator you choose can handle the load during an emergency.
What size generator do I need to power my house during an outage?
It depends on your particular needs.
- Will you need to power your entire house?
- How much wattage do you require?
- What is the wattage of all the devices you want to run simultaneously?
For example, running a Fridge, TV, and Laptop together requires a generator with at least 2200 watts of power.
What size generator will run the whole house?
Captain Electric licensed professional electricians will be best to supply you with this information during a assessment and quotation visit to your home.
A Standby Generator that will run an entire house requires a recommendation based on your home’s size, the corresponding outlets and lighting requirements, and whether you have natural gas appliances or electric.
Things to be considered are:
- The size of your home,
- The wattage of your appliances,
- Running your air conditioner in summer
- Running your furnace in winter
- Plus other relevant electrical details concerning your home.
Remember, one of the long-term benefits of installing a Standby Generator is that they also add resale value to your home.
How far does a Kohler generator need to be from the house?
Kohler recommends a minimum of 2 feet from your home. The exhaust should not face a window or door. Kohler generators are a durable Standby Generator for your home power needs.
How long does it take to set up a Kohler generator?
A standby generator installation involves many steps and careful planning is required. As your Kohler Authorized Dealer, Captain Electric we pride ourselves on a well executed and timely installation.
Is a Kohler generator solar-powered?
No, they are not solar-powered, but they are often used along with solar panels as part of a back-up power solution for your home or business. Kohler Standby Generators are powered by your home’s natural gas or liquid propane system.
How much does a generator cost?
The actual installation cost can vary greatly and depends on several factors:
The model that fits your needs for the size of your home, installation details that are particular to your home such as location in relation to fuel supply, and electrical service modifications. Your Kohler representative, Captain Electric, will be able to provide an exact quote. Captain Electric offers attractive financing options.
Are Kohler generators smartphone compatible?
Yes! The OnCue Plus app (available for iOS and Android) allows you to monitor your generator from any mobile device. This includes instant notifications when your generator turns on and off, status updates, and monitoring. In addition, the app automatically notifies your Captain Electric dealer if there is an issue with your generator.
What is the warranty on Kohler generators?
Please ask your Captain Electric authorized Kohler dealer for details.
Depending on your model, you can receive up to a 10-year extended warranty on your Kohler generator.
How do I register my generator’s warranty protection?
To register your warranty, your authorized Kohler service technician at Captain Electric will complete a post-installation Warranty Start-Up at your home. The Installation Technician will complete a checklist, make sure the system is properly installed, and enter all necessary information into the Kohler Warranty site. The warranty begins the day the generator is commissioned into service and the installation Technician submits your generator system’s details to the Warranty Start-Up program.
Call Today to Schedule your in home Assessment.
At Captain Electric, our qualified, licensed professional electricians will explain all of the options and help you decide. 905.683.4195