It’s June, and summer weather has officially arrived! While that means beach days and backyard barbecues, here in Central Jersey, it also signals the start of storm season. In fact, the National Weather Service is predicting up to 19 named storms this year — with as many as 10 becoming hurricanes.
If you’re considering a standby generator to stay powered up when the grid goes out, you’re on the right track!
But before you hire just any electrician to install it, here’s what you need to know: not all electricians are generator specialists. This post explains why choosing a certified generator installer can make all the difference when it comes to long-term reliability, safety, and peace of mind — especially when the next storm rolls in.
1. Specialized Training from Generator Manufacturers
Generators are not just electrical devices. They contain engines, similar to your car or lawnmower, and require gas lines and sometimes fuel tanks to operate. All those components require special expertise.
Certified generator installers receive manufacturer-specific training from Generac, Kohler, Cummins, and Briggs & Stratton, and should have a certificate like this one to prove it. They understand electrical load management, sizing, fuel type considerations, and transfer switch integration far better than general electricians.
2. Knowledge of Correct Sizing and Load Calculation
Generator sizing isn’t just about wattage—it involves startup loads, surge demands, and future needs.
Certified installers use specific tools and software to size your generator accurately for optimal performance and efficiency. They also understand how load demands over time can affect your system’s performance and longevity, and factor these in their system choice.
3. Knowledge of Transfer Switch Integration
Your generator connects to your home’s electrical panel through an automatic transfer switch (ATS). This critical system component monitors utility power and, when it detects an outage, automatically switches your home’s power source from the utility grid to your generator. It must operate seamlessly and be properly rated to handle your generator’s output and your home’s electrical load.
A certified generator installer is trained to ensure this important component correctly connects to your electrical panel, which is vital to your entire home electrical system’s safety.
4. Familiarity with Permits and Code Compliance
Certified installers are often more familiar with local, state, and national codes specific to generator installations, including:
Compliance with National Electrical Code (NEC) 702, that specifies installation codes for generator safety (to prevent fires and backflow to the electrical grid)
- Requirements for your system’s fuel source (for example, LP or diesel tank requirements in areas lacking a natural gas utility)
Fuel line sizing and ventilation, again for safety with combustible liquids
Setback requirements to ensure the generator is not too close to the home
Certified generator installers can handle all permitting, which is essential should you resell your home. Proper permitting is also required for insurance discounts.
5. Better Warranty Protection
Another key consideration when choosing a generator installer is the model’s warranty and its terms. Most manufacturers require installation by a trained and certified installer to honor their full warranty.
A licensed electrician without certification may void or reduce warranty coverage. This could increase your costs should you experience trouble down the road.
6. Maintenance and Long-Term Support
Installation isn’t the end-all-be-all of generator ownership. Like other engines, you standby system requires maintenance to extend its lifespan and give reliable performance. Certified installers like Central Jersey Generators offer ongoing maintenance plans, remote monitoring, and faster access to parts and support.
They also register the unit, track service intervals and send you reminders to maintain your system so that you don’t need to keep track of this. And, should your generator encounter trouble, a certified installer has the resources and knowledge to run comprehensive tests and fine-tune it for optimal performance.
For this level of service you get a system that works, trouble-free, when you need it to.
Beat the Storm!
If you’re considering a generator this summer, now’s the time to take the first step—you’ll have your system fully up and running before hurricane season peaks at summer’s end. A certified generator installer can help you choose the right system, ensure a safe, code-compliant setup, and make sure you’re ready for whatever mother nature serves up.
Ready to learn more? Contact us for a free estimate.
