Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Standby Generator System?
A Standby Generator System is an automatic, emergency back-up electrical system that provides power to the items that you have designated, whether you are at home or away. It will automatically supply emergency power to your home within seconds of lost utility power. Once utility power returns, the system will recognize this and shut down until the next outage.
How do I buy a Standby Generator System for my home?
Contact us to set up a survey with one of our professional team members. We will come to your home at no charge to determine which Generator is right for your emergency power needs and provide a cost estimate.
What is the advantage of having a Standby Generator System rather than a portable Generator?
The clearest advantage with a Standby Generator System is that it will automatically turn "on" when utility power is lost and "off" when the utility power has been restored. This transition occurs without ever having to leave the safety and comfort of your home. It operates automatically and runs exercise cycles, weekly or biweekly, to ensure proper response when needed. Standby Generator Systems require no extension cords and no gas tanks to fill. Your home is automatically protected even when you are away.
How do I determine what size Generator is right for me?
The most accurate way is to receive professional advice from our team of experts. You decide which circuits or appliances that you want to operate with emergency power. We will design the best cost-effective system to accomplish this.
What is the difference between air-cooled and liquid-cooled Generators?
Air-cooled Generators cover essential back-up power needs in a majority of homes at less cost than liquid-cooled Generators. Liquid-cooled units provide more power and contain automotive engines for increased horsepower. This increased power makes liquid-cooled units ideal for whole-house power coverage and commercial use
What powers a Standby Generator System?
Most use liquid propane (LP) or natural gas. If using LP with a full 250-gallon tank, your Generator will run about 3 to 5 days, depending on the Generator size and which circuits are being powered.
Where are Standby Generator Systems typically placed?
The Generators are set outside the home, typically 3 to 5 feet from an existing structure (based on local or county code) on a prefabricated pad. Larger liquid-cooled Generators are placed on a concrete pad. The Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) is placed next to your main power distribution panel.
What is an automatic transfer switch (ATS)?
An ATS is a device that receives both utility and Generator power. It isolates the two types of power (utility and Generator) from each other to prevent power feed back. When utility power to your home goes out, the ATS detects the power outage and signals the Generator to turn on. Then, the ATS safely closes off the utility power line and opens the power line from the Generator, thereby transferring the source of power from the utility line to your home Generator.
What determines the best size of automatic transfer switch (ATS)?
This is based on the size of your utility service, appliances designated to run on emergency power, and the size of the Generator. Our professional staff can determine the best size for your needs.
Is it OK to run sensitive electronic equipment, such as a computer, on emergency power?
Power from your Standby Generator System is just as safe as utility power. We do recommend that you purchase a good surge protector to guard against any small influxes of power.
How much does a Standby Generator System cost?
To determine the actual cost for a typical residential Standby Generator System, factor in the costs of the equipment (Generator and Automatic Transfer Switch), delivery for the equipment, labor to set the unit properly to state and local building codes, electrical installation by a licensed electrician, gas (LP or natural) line installation, supplies, site clean-up, factory-authorized startup by a product dealer (for warranty purposes), testing, and home-owner demonstration of the Standby Generator System. Optional costs can include an approved pad for the Generator and sound enclosures for larger units. We at Premier Power Generation provide a complete turn-key package of all these items at one cost to the customer.
Can I install the Generator and automatic transfer switch myself?
Yes, but we do not recommend this. Failure to comply with state and local building codes could be dangerous for both family members and outside repair workers trying to repair any downed power lines. Further, to maintain the warranty on your equipment, professional installation is required.
Will my Standby Generator System have a warranty?
Yes. All Standby Generator Systems that we install include a warranty. Each product line varies in warranty details. We can explain warranty coverage on each unit.
How often does the Standby Generator System need preventive maintenance performed?
We recommend a preventive maintenance service semi-annually (2 times per year) to maintain maximum performance of your unit.