FAQ

Generators provide homeowners with a way to power everything from their most critical appliances and systems to their entire house. The size of the generator that you’ll need will depend on what you are looking to power in the event that your electricity goes out. Size, when referenced in terms of generators, most commonly refers not to the physical size of the machine, but its electrical capacity. If you’ll want to keep your refrigerator, air conditioning, and one TV running simultaneously, you can determine the electrical capacity you’ll need by adding up the total watts of each load amount. To receive a detailed estimate from Generator Authority, call 1-888-547-6938 now! 

Generators vary in cost depending on a number of factors including the electrical capacity (watts) and the features of the unit. One of our generator technicians can find the right generator to fit you needs and budget.  We also offer financing for installing a generators. Maintenance plans can also help provide peace of mind and ensure the longevity of your generator.  It’s important to remember that the value a generator can provide you and your family cannot solely be measured monetarily. Generators provide owners with a sense of security and reliability that your family will be protected in the event of an emergency. 

Standby generators are permanent structures located outside of your home on a concrete base. They typically run using natural gas or liquid propane, and automatically turn on in a matter of seconds when a power failure is detected, even when you’re not home. Once utility power returns, a standby generator will power off on its own.  

Standby generators require installation be performed by an experienced professional. In addition to hooking up the transfer switch, a licensed electrician will make sure that everything is installed properly so that your warranty is protected and remains valid. Regulations differ on several different levels, by hiring a professional to install your standby generator, they’ll make sure that you have all the necessary permits and that your generator meets any local and state electrical code requirements. Call to schedule an appointment with one of our generator technicians today! 

Will you need a permit for a generator? …..maybe, you will need a permit before any installation work begins. You will also need a home electrical inspection conducted by a licensed professional after the installation is complete. Do research into your county or municipality to determine just into what type or how many permits will be required. 

YES! Just like any other mechanical equipment, generators also need to be maintained in order to prevent permanent damage and keep your unit in proper working order. Just like a car engine, generators require periodic filter and oil changes.  
Our generator service technician can provide your standby and portable generator with 24/7 emergency response or standard maintenance services that are unsurpassed in the industry. Call 1-888-547-6938 to find out more about our Preventative Maintenance Agreements Packages and routine maintenance services! 

The engines! Air-cooled generators come with engines that use fans to force air across the engine for cooling, while liquid-cooled generators use enclosed radiator systems for cooling, similar to an automobile. Generally, liquid-cooled engines are used on larger kw generators due to the larger engines required for the higher power output. 

NO! A standby generator with an automatic transfer switches are just that, automatic. They monitor the electrical feed from the utility company, and when your home loses power, the backup generator will automatically turn on. 

Once the generator is installed, there is nothing for the homeowner to do. Regular maintenance would include having the oil changed once a year by a certified technician. 

The generator runs a self-diagnostic test and runs briefly once a week for approximately ten minutes. This test will assure you that the generator is ready when you need it.  

A standby generator operates on either natural gas or propane. The cost is a function of how many home appliances, lights, and heating and/ or cooling equipment you have on as well as the cost of propane or gas at the time. 

As long as there is a fuel supply of natural gas or propane, a well-maintained backup generator will keep running. If the a generator is running on propane, with a 500-gallon tank, it should run 24 hours a day for over a week. 

Generac generators are pretty quiet. They are average rated at 66 decibels at three meters (about ten feet). That’s about the sound of the A/C running or a phone ringing. 

How can you reduce the generator’s noise? Once everything is installed, you may be wondering what you can do to keep the generator’s noise levels down. Unfortunately, outside of reducing the amount of circuits your generator is powering, there will not be much of an answer. You should call Generator Authority, 1-888-547-6938, if your generator begins making loud, unusual noises that indicate a problem with its internal components. 

We recommend a 6 month service check up and oil change once a year.  You should schedule a maintenance check just like you would do with your air conditioner or furnace. A generator is an engine. It exercises once a week plus whatever power outages you experience. 

Yes, we do. The maintenance agreement includes two visits-a 6 month service check up and an annual tune up, and we perform all service and system testing. 

It sure can. That’s what our experts help you figure out. We help determine what the right size generator is for your home and lifestyle. Our worst fear is you install a generator that is too small to operate the equipment you want or need in an emergency. 

Yes, you can select specific electrical circuits.  

YES! You can install a generator to run just what you need or want; not too big and not too small 

There’s no guarantee for how long your generator system will last, but with proper maintenance and care, a quality unit used for emergency power can last upwards of 20 years. Generac generators in particular are made with OHVI engines that were created specifically for generator use. These generators can provide owners with more than 30 years of reliable service and are the most trusted name in the industry. Contact Generator Authority with any questions you may have with regards to a commercial or residential generators. We’re always available to answer your call and provide you with unsurpassed generator services!  

You will want to install somewhere on the side of backyard. Location matters. If the generator is installed near an electrical meter or natural gas line, the cost of installation can be lower. 

No! The generator fuel costs would be much more expensive than buying power from the utility company since their cost to produce electricity is divided among thousands of customers. Our automatic generators are produced for use as backup to utility power specifically and should not be used as primary power.  

Generator Authority can perform repair/warranty service. We can provide service, and information on your generator regardless of where it was purchased/who installed it.  

IMPORTANT – To avoid equipment damage, follow these steps, in order, during utility outages.  Shutdowns may be required during utility outages to perform routine maintenance or to conserve fuel. 

To turn the generator OFF: 

1. Set the main utility disconnect to OFF (OPEN) 

1. Set the generator MLCB (generator disconnect) to OFF (OPEN). 

1. Allow the generator to run for a cool-down period of approximately one minute. 

1. At the controller, set the generator to OFF. 

1. Remove the 7.5A fuse from the controller. 

To turn the generator back ON: 

1. Install 7.5A fuse in controller. 

1. Confirm the generator MLCB (generator disconnect) is OFF (OPEN). 

1. At the controller, set the generator to AUTO mode. 

1. Generator will start and run.  Allow generator to run and warm up for a few minutes. 

1. Set the MLCB (generator disconnect) to ON (CLOSED). 

1. Set the main utility disconnect to ON (CLOSED). 

The system now operates in automatic mode. 
After you go through these steps, the control panel may go through the programming.  All of your settings should be held there so you’ll have to just hit enter through it (or you can make any adjustments that you need) and get the unit to the main screen (“Switched to off, hours of protection” or “system” is flashing.) Additionally, you will need to reconnect your WIFI if your router is not backed up by the generator 

We recommending contacting your gas provider, licensed plumber, or we can arrange a licensed plumber. They will be able to size the gas line for you. Gas pipe size will depend on length of run from the source and how many elbows and T’s there are.  Every home is different, and so is every installation. The placement of the generator, the amount of materials required, and the installation of the natural gas or LP fuel source all make estimating installation costs unique. The best way to know for sure is to get a free in-home assessment. They will listen to your needs, assess your home, and give you a detailed quote. All at no charge, with no obligation, and no pressure.   

No.  Our Generac home backup generators are designed to run on one fuel source.  They are factory set to run on natural gas, however; at the time of installation, your generator can be reconfigured to run on liquid propane.   

We recommend at least 250 gallons for our Generac automatic standby units.  However, every home is different, and so is every installation and set-up.  We recommend that you get a free in-home assessment to help determine the best set up for your needs.  In-Home Assessments are available to you at no charge, with no obligation, and no pressure.