Generator Installation
Power outages in California can be caused by wildfires, Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), severe weather, grid overload during heat waves, or equipment failure. A standby generator with an automatic transfer switch keeps your home powered through any outage — your lights, refrigerator, HVAC, medical equipment, and security system stay on without you lifting a finger.
Standby vs. Portable Generators
A standby generator is permanently installed outside your home and connected to your electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch. When utility power is lost, the transfer switch detects the outage and starts the generator within seconds — automatically, even if you are not home. A portable generator requires manual setup, fueling, and connection each time power goes out. For reliable, hands-free backup power, a standby generator is the better long-term solution.
California PSPS Events and Backup Power
California utilities now implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs during high wildfire risk conditions, intentionally cutting power to reduce fire danger. These shutoffs can last 24 to 72 hours and often affect large areas. A standby generator ensures your home stays powered through PSPS events, which are expected to continue as a regular part of California's wildfire prevention strategy.
Sizing Your Generator
Generators are rated in kilowatts (kW), and the right size depends on what you want to power during an outage. A 10-12 kW generator can handle essentials — lights, refrigerator, a few outlets, and a sump pump. A 16-22 kW generator can power most of a typical home, including central air conditioning. A 24+ kW generator can handle an entire large home without prioritizing loads. We calculate your specific power needs based on the appliances and systems you want to keep running.
Automatic Transfer Switches
The automatic transfer switch (ATS) is the brain of a standby generator system. It continuously monitors utility power. When it detects an outage, it signals the generator to start, waits for the generator to reach stable output (usually 10 to 30 seconds), and then transfers your home's electrical load from the utility to the generator. When utility power is restored, the ATS transfers back and signals the generator to shut down. The entire process is automatic — no manual intervention needed.
What Affects the Cost
- Generator size (kilowatt rating) based on your power needs
- Fuel source — natural gas vs. propane (propane requires a tank)
- Distance from the generator to the electrical panel
- Concrete pad requirements and site preparation
- Gas line installation or extension
- Permit fees (electrical, building, and sometimes mechanical)
- Transfer switch type (automatic vs. manual, whole-house vs. load-managed)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a standby generator cost installed?
A whole-house standby generator with automatic transfer switch typically costs $5,000 to $15,000 installed, depending on the generator size (kilowatt capacity), fuel source (natural gas or propane), and the complexity of the electrical and gas connections. We help you size the generator to match your home's critical loads.
Do I need a permit for a generator in California?
Yes. Generator installations in California require both an electrical permit (for the transfer switch and panel connections) and typically a building permit (for the concrete pad and gas connections). Some jurisdictions also require a mechanical permit for the gas line. We handle all permit requirements.
How loud is a standby generator?
Modern standby generators operate at 60 to 70 decibels at a distance of 23 feet, roughly the volume of a normal conversation. Most California jurisdictions have noise ordinances that permit this level during a power outage. We install the generator in a location that minimizes noise impact on your home and neighbors while meeting all required setbacks.
What maintenance does a standby generator need?
Standby generators require relatively simple maintenance: oil and filter changes every 200 hours of operation or annually (whichever comes first), air filter replacement, spark plug inspection, and battery check. Most generators run a brief automatic exercise cycle weekly to keep the engine lubricated and the battery charged. We offer maintenance plans and can service all major generator brands.
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