Updated November 2, 2026 · Reviewed for accuracy by a licensed Uniform electrical contractor before publication
Decisions to make
| Decision | What to consider |
|---|---|
| What to power | Whole home, or essential circuits like AC, fridge, lights and well. |
| Fuel | Natural gas where available, or propane with tank sizing. |
| Placement | Manufacturer clearances, local code, flood elevation, noise and association rules. |
| Transfer equipment | Automatic or manual transfer switch; never an improvised backfeed. |
Installation steps
Site assessment
Load, placement and fuel.
Permits
Electrical and fuel permits as required.
Installation
Pad, generator, transfer switch, fuel connection by a licensed fuel contractor.
Commissioning
Start-up, load test and owner walkthrough.
Maintenance
Follow the manufacturer's schedule, typically annual service plus regular exercise runs. Service before hurricane season, when parts and appointments are easier to get.
No generator guarantees uninterrupted power. Fuel supply, maintenance and equipment condition all matter.