Frequently Asked Questions
The differences really have to do with the steps needed to have emergency power flowing into your house in the event of a power outage. Portable systems are wheeled units that require you to roll the generator outside, start it up and hook it up to a power inlet box. From there, you must go to the transfer switch panel installed near your circuit breakers and switch the power coming into your house from the main line to the generator running
One of the clear advantages with an automatic standby generator system is that the unit turns itself on and off automatically without you ever having to leave the safety of your home. Automatic standby generator systems also exercise themselves once a week. You can even set the time when the unit will perform this diagnostics check. The generator will then be ready to run whenever needed. In addition, with a standby power generator, you have the option of powering your entire house outside. After the power from your local utility is restored, you are required to reverse the setup process.
The best way to size your home for a generator is to have a load analysis completed by PowerAid Generators which is done free of charge before providing an estimation. The most common items that need emergency power during a blackout are the furnace blower motor, air conditioning unit, refrigerator, freezer, appliance circuit, microwave, lights, TV, water well, septic system and water pumps.
When you choose the safety, reliability and automatic operation of a standby generator system, there are several items that contribute to the total cost. The cost of the system includes the generator itself, a power transfer switch and installation charges. Optional maintenance contracts can also add to cost if you choose one. Installation costs may vary, depending on customer requirements and where the generator is being set up. Every generator installation is unique, and that’s why during our initial consultation, we talk about your specific needs and provide a free estimate on a generator and installation that is right for you.
All of our estimates are comprehensive including the cost of permits, and transportation. In other words, there are no hidden fees or charges you need to worry about.
From start to finish, a basic installation will involve the following:
1. Transfer switch will be installed by a master electrician
2. After that’s installed, the generator will be moved to the location you desire.
3. Electric lines will then be connected from your transfer switch to your generator
4. Once electric is hooked up, we ensure there are proper connections from the fuel source to the generator.
5. After electric and fuel is hooked up, your generator is ready to start and protect your home or business.
Yes, the power coming from your generator is just as safe as what you normally have coming out of the wall socket. The spikes or surges that accompany power generation (also known as "harmonic distortion") are just a normal aspect of electricity. However, when considering sensitive or expensive electronic equipment running off a wall outlet, you should use a good surge protector to guard against small influxes in power.
It is recommended that you have your standby generator system (generator and transfer switch) installed by a licensed electrical contractor. Failure to do so could be dangerous for both family members, as well as outside repair workers trying to fix downed power lines. In addition, improper installation could void your warranty.
One of the advantages of standby generator system is that they are designed to run or "exercise" once a week for 20 minutes. All you have to do is program when you want this task to be performed and it will start up automatically. During this time, it will lubricate the engine and charge up the included battery.
No. All of our transfer switches are designed to keep generator back- feed from occurring. When the contractor installs the transfer system into a house or small business, they will also hard wire the switch directly into the circuit breaker. When the home is running off of the generator, it automatically separates the power coming in from the utilities and the generator, preventing damage to your house. Only when the system switches back to power will the appliances assigned to the generator then receive power from the homeowner's utility. With the automatic standby generator System, the unit senses when the power has been restored and automatically switches back to utility power before shutting down.
PowerAid Generators can be conveniently reached by calling us at 1-844-YOU-GO-ON (968-4666) or 905-467-8453. We're always here to help.
No. Carbon monoxide gases produced by the engine can be deadly. Portable Generators are designed to run outside where there is plenty of ventilation. Never run these units inside a home or enclosed area.
No. A generator has an internal combustion engine and uses gas and oil. The exhaust from running the generator contains lethal carbon monoxide. Therefore, this unit should always be placed in a well- ventilated area.
