What is an automatic standby generator?
An automatic standby generator is a back-up electrical system that operates whether you are home or away. Within seconds of an outage, it automatically supplies power directly to your home’s electrical circuit breaker box. After utility power returns, the generator shuts itself off and waits for the next outage. It operates on natural gas or liquid propane gas and sits outside just like a central air conditioning unit.
How does the Home Generator System work?
At the point of loss of utility power, the system will wait approximately 10 seconds to start (this is to verify that the power is going to stay out). After it has started it will go through a warm up period of 20 seconds. After this time the transfer switch will change over to generator power. The house will remain under generator power for a minimum of 5 minutes, even if the utility power comes back on. After utility has come back on, and the generator has powered up the house for at least 5 minutes, the transfer switch will go back to utility power after 10 seconds. The generator will then run 2-3 minutes to cool down before turning itself off.
What is a transfer switch?
A transfer switch is a device that is fed by both utility and generator power. It isolates the two types of power from each other so a back feed does not occur. National Electrical Code requires a device like this if two types of power are going to feed the house.
What does a Home Generator System typically cost?
When you choose the safety, reliability and automatic operation of a Home Generator System, there are several items that contribute to the total cost, the cost of the system itself, a transfer switch, and installation charges. Optional maintenance contracts can also add to the cost if you choose one. Costs may vary depending on the size of the unit, transfer switch used, location of installation, and permits required for installation. Please contact PowerReady for specifics.
Can I install the unit myself or does someone else need to?
It is recommended that you have your Home Generator System (generator and transfer switch) installed by a certified PowerReady 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, professional installation is required to maintain the warranty. They would also make sure that all the necessary permits are pulled to verify an inspector would pass it. PowerReady Certified Briggs & Stratton Home Power Products are capable of not only performing the necessary installation, but can also offer maintenance agreements that ensure the generator is being serviced on a regular basis.
How long will a unit run before I have to let it cool down or refill it with fuel?
Another advantage of PowerReady’s Home Generator Systems are that they run on liquid propane or natural gas, so they don’t need to be refueled as often, if at all. Additionally, rest periods to allow cooling are not necessary. PowerReady certified Briggs & Stratton Home Generator Systems are air-cooled and do not require you to turn them off after extended run times. However, you will need to turn off the unit before refueling (if running on LP gas) or when checking the oil levels which should be done on a regular basis during and after extended use.
What is the warranty?
The warranties will vary depending upon the unit that is purchased. Entry-level systems will carry a four year power train warranty with our more advanced units. All you need to do to get qualified for that is send in the installation checklist. The transfer switches carry a standard 3-year warranty.
How long can I expect an automatic standby generator to last?
Because engines are developed specifically for generators and designed to provide approximately 3,000 hours of use, with typical usage and proper maintenance an automatic standby generator can provide in excess of 30 years of service.
