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Generator Systems
Looking for a dependable generator install or maintenance? Our team of experienced Electricians and Plumbers at Jenkins MEP provides the full service. Let us take care of your Generator needs today.
There are 2 standard emergency generator systems for your home:
1) Portable generator with manual interlock (cheapest / simp
- Description: A portable gasoline (or propane) generator connected to the home via a generator inlet (outdoor receptacle) and a manual interlock or transfer switch installed at the main electrical panel. The homeowner starts the generator and flips the interlock to isolate the house from the utility before supplying generator power.
- Typical sizing recommendation: Minimum ~8,000 watts (gives roughly 30 amps at 240V) for a limited number of circuits and essential loads (refrigerator, lights, some HVAC, well pump). Larger portable units provide more load capacity.
- What it powers: Typically selective/limited circuits or specific loads chosen manually (or by using heavy-duty extension cords for individual appliances).
- Installation needs: Install generator inlet, appropriate cabling, and a compliant interlock or manual transfer switch and update panel labeling. Follow local electrical code and fuel/storage rules.
- Pros: Low initial cost; portable; flexible for short-term use or to move between locations.
- Cons: Manual operation (must start and switch), fuel storage and frequent refueling for extended outages, noise, limited automatic protection, lower run-time reliability compared to fixed systems.
- Maintenance: Regular oil changes, run tests, and fuel care (stabilizer or propane). Safe storage and periodic load testing recommended.
2) Fixed standby generator with automatic transfer switch (f
- Description: A permanently installed generator (usually natural gas or propane) placed on a concrete pad or approved platform, tied into the home with an automatic transfer switch (ATS). On utility failure the ATS signals the generator to start and transfers loads automatically.
- Fuel: Commonly natural gas (continuous supply) or propane tanks. Natural gas often preferred for long outages because it eliminates on-site refueling.
- Sizing: Ranges from partial-home (3–12 kW) to whole-home standby units (12–30+ kW) depending on home size, HVAC load, and whether you want full-service backup (well pump, central AC, electric range, etc.). Sizing should account for motor-starting loads (air conditioners, pumps).
- What it powers: Can be configured for whole-home backup or critical circuits only (via load management or a load-shedding panel).
- Installation needs: Concrete pad or wood platform, fuel line hookup (natural gas or propane), electrical connection to ATS and main panel, permits and inspections. Proper ventilation and clearances required.
- Pros: Fully automatic, reliable for long outages, no manual intervention, integrated and clean installation, continuous fuel source if on natural gas.
- Cons: Higher initial cost and installation complexity, requires permanent space and gas hookup, some ongoing maintenance costs.
- Maintenance: Annual professional service, periodic oil/filter changes, and exercise runs. Natural gas models typically require less frequent refueling concerns.
Additional considerations (both systems)
- Transfer method: Manual interlock vs. manual transfer switch vs. automatic transfer switch—each determines how seamless and code-compliant switching is.
- Code & permits: All installations require compliance with local electrical and fuel codes and inspections. Use licensed electricians and HVAC/fuel contractors as required.
- Safety: Backfeeding prevention (interlock or transfer switch) is mandatory to protect utility workers. Proper ventilation and exhaust clearance is critical for generators.
- Load planning: Make a prioritized list of essential loads (refrigeration, heating, medical equipment, sump pumps, lighting, HVAC) to choose the correct generator size and whether whole-home or partial backup is appropriate.
- Costs: Portable with interlock is lowest cost (equipment + installation). Fixed standby costs include equipment, fuel hookup, pad, ATS, and higher installation fees—often significantly more than portable options but provide greater convenience and reliability.
- Noise & placement: Consider noise ordinances and neighbor impact; distance, sound attenuation, and enclosures can reduce noise.
Generator System summary
- If budget and occasional outages are primary concerns and you don’t need automatic operation: portable generator + interlock is economical and flexible.
- If you want automatic, hands-off protection for extended outages (especially if you have critical loads or want whole-house coverage): a permanently installed natural gas standby generator with ATS is the better long-term solution.